SASSA Means Test Calculator [2026]

Wondering if you qualify for a SASSA grant in 2026? The SASSA Means Test is the tool designed to help you figure that out. It checks your income and assets to determine whether you’re eligible for financial assistance. The good news? You can easily use the SASSA Means Test Calculator to find out. Let’s walk through how it works and what you need to know.

How to Use the SASSA Means Test Calculator

The SASSA Means Test Calculator is straightforward and user-friendly. Here’s how you can check your eligibility:

1. Choose the Grant Type: Select the grant you’re applying for—options include Old Age, Disability, Child Support, and other grants.
2. Input Your Income: If you’re single, enter your monthly income. For those married, enter the combined household income from both you and your spouse.
3. Check Eligibility: After entering the necessary details, click the Check Eligibility button. The calculator will instantly determine if you fall within the income and asset thresholds for a SASSA grant.

Using this calculator saves you time and gives you immediate feedback on your grant eligibility.

What is the SASSA Means Test?

The SASSA Means Test evaluates your financial situation to ensure that grants go to those in genuine need. It looks at your income, assets, and other financial factors like debts and dependents.

Key factors considered in the means test include:

• Income: Salaries, pensions, business profits, and other income sources.
• Assets: SASSA examines the value of your property, bank accounts, and investments.
• Debts: Outstanding loans are also part of the evaluation.

For married applicants, the combined financial details of both partners are assessed.

Income and Asset Limits for 2026

Every year, SASSA updates the limits for income and assets that determine who qualifies for a grant. In 2026, the current limits are:

• Old Age, Disability, and War Veterans Grants:
  • Single: Income of up to R8,070 per month
  • Married: Combined income of up to R16,140 per month
• Child Support Grant:
  • Single Caregivers: Income of up to R5,000 per month
  • Married Caregivers: Combined income of up to R10,000 per month

Note: The Foster Child Grant does not require a means test, while the Child Support Grant evaluates only the income of the caregiver.

What Counts as Income and Assets?

SASSA counts several types of earnings and assets when assessing your eligibility for a grant. These include:

• Salaries and wages
• Pension payments
• Business income
• Rental income
• Child maintenance
• Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) payouts

For assets, SASSA looks at:

• Bank balances
• Property (excluding your primary residence)
• Investments
• Retirement annuities

If you’re applying for an Old Age Grant or Disability Grant, your main home isn’t included in the asset evaluation.

SASSA Payment Amount Increases for October 2025

Below are the SASSA Payment Amount Increases for October 2025, and now they will increase again in April, 2026.

Grant Type	April 2025 Amount	October 2025 Amount	Increase in October 2025	Total 2025 Increase
Old-Age (60–74)	R2,310	R2,320	R10	R130
Old-Age (75+)	R2,330	R2,340	R10	R130
Disability	R2,310	R2,320	R10	R130
Care Dependency	R2,310	R2,320	R10	R130
War Veterans	R2,330	R2,340	R10	R130
Child Support	R560	R560	No increase	R30
Foster Care	R1,250	R1,250	No increase	R70

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q: What is the SASSA Means Test?

A: The SASSA Means Test is a financial assessment that checks your income and assets to determine your eligibility for a SASSA grant.

Q: Who needs to take the means test?

A: Most grant applicants are required to take the means test, except those applying for the Foster Child Grant.

Q: What counts as income?

A: Income includes salaries, pensions, rental income, business profits, and financial support from family.

Q: How often are the income and asset limits updated?

A: The limits are updated twice a year, in April and October.

Conclusion

The SASSA Means Test Calculator is a handy tool that helps you quickly determine if you’re eligible for financial assistance in 2026. By simply entering your income and assets, you can get an immediate result. Remember, the income and asset thresholds are updated twice a year, so it’s important to stay informed. This will ensure you remain eligible and avoid missing out on the support you need.

Important: SASSA revises the income and asset thresholds biannually, in April and October, to reflect inflation and policy updates. To enhance your chances of grant approval, ensure your income remains below the specified limits. Exceeding these limits by even one Rand can result in application denial. Stay informed about the latest thresholds to prevent any complications with your application.