During the 2026 Budget Speech delivered in Parliament in Cape Town, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a significant allocation of R292.8 billion toward social grants for the 2026/27 financial year.
The increased funding is set to benefit millions of vulnerable South Africans who rely on government assistance. Old age, disability, and care dependency grants will each rise by R80, bringing the new monthly amount to R2,400. The war veterans grant will increase to R2,420.
Support for children and caregivers will also see adjustments. Foster care grants will increase to R1,290 in April, followed by a further rise to R1,300 in October. Meanwhile, the child support grant and the grant-in-aid will both increase by R20, raising the monthly payment to R580.
In addition, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant will remain in its current format, continuing to provide critical assistance to individuals facing immediate financial hardship.
The expanded allocation underscores government’s continued commitment to social protection and poverty alleviation amid ongoing economic pressures.
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