90 Day Restoration Window, Review Notices, Dates, and How To Keep Payments Active
The Older Persons Grant is a lifeline for senior citizens in South Africa. To keep payments flowing without interruption in the 2025 to 2026 cycle, beneficiaries must complete a simple reapplication and keep personal details current. SASSA issues review notices ahead of deadlines and gives beneficiaries a 90 day restoration window if a grant is temporarily suspended due to missed reapplication. This guide explains the timeline, who must reapply, the exact documents required, how to submit online or in person, what happens if you miss a date, and practical steps to prevent stoppages.
Table of Contents
Why SASSA Requires Reapplication and Reviews
Periodic reapplication helps SASSA confirm that beneficiaries still meet eligibility criteria and that payment details are correct. The most common triggers are
- identity or personal detail changes
- bank account updates or expired cards
- address changes that affect local office records
- income changes that impact the means test
- data verification during fraud prevention checks
Completing the reapplication on time keeps your grant active and prevents administrative suspensions that can delay monthly income.
Quick Summary
Item |
Details |
|---|---|
Grant |
Older Persons Grant |
Reapplication deadline |
31 October 2025 |
Age requirement |
60 years and above |
Means test |
Income and assets must be below SASSA thresholds |
90 day rule |
If suspended for non compliance you can restore within 90 days after submitting all documents |
Next key pay date example |
From 4 November 2025 for the November cycle |
Where to apply or check status |
|
Contact |
0800 60 10 11 and local SASSA offices |
Eligibility and Key Criteria
To qualify for the Older Persons Grant you must
- be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognised refugee
- be 60 years or older at the time of application
- meet the means test for income and assets
- not receive another state funded social grant for yourself
- reside in South Africa and hold valid identification
If your circumstances change, disclose this at reapplication. Non disclosure can lead to recovery of overpayments and suspension until records are corrected.
Reapplication Deadline and Review Notices
- Target deadline: 31 October 2025. Apply well before this date to avoid queues and processing bottlenecks.
- Review notices: SASSA issues SMS or printed letters advising you to submit documents or complete biometric verification. Keep your mobile number and address current so you do not miss alerts.
- Processing time: Typical decisions take 7 to 14 working days when documents are complete. Missing evidence extends timelines.
Step By Step: How To Reapply
Option 1. Online reapplication
- Go to https://www.sassa.gov.za and follow the online services link.
- Log in using your ID number and registered mobile number.
- Upload clear scans of required documents in the formats listed on the portal.
- Submit and note the reference number.
- Track status weekly and respond quickly to any additional document requests.
Option 2. In person at a SASSA office
- Visit your nearest office during working hours with all originals.
- Complete or confirm the application form with an official.
- Provide biometrics or photographs if requested.
- Receive a stamped receipt or case number for tracking.
Tip: For mobility or medical issues, a trusted family member may assist with an affidavit and authorization letter. Request the correct templates at the office to avoid repeat trips.
Documents You Must Prepare
- South African ID book or Smart ID card
- Proof of residence not older than three months
- Bank account confirmation or a recent stamped bank statement if you are changing payment method
- Proof of marital status if applicable, such as marriage or divorce order, or death certificate of a spouse
- Income and asset proof such as pension slips, interest statements, or affidavits when required
- Completed SASSA application or review form obtained online or at a local office
Bring originals and one set of photocopies. Poor quality scans and missing pages are the leading cause of delays.
The 90 Day Restoration Window
If you miss the reapplication deadline or fail to supply a requested document, SASSA may suspend your grant. You will receive a notice explaining what is missing and the date of suspension. You can restore your grant by
- submitting the outstanding documents or corrections within 90 days of suspension
- completing any required in person verification such as biometrics or bank confirmation
Once SASSA approves restoration, payments resume, and depending on the case you may receive back pay from the date of suspension. If you do not act within 90 days, the case may close and you will need to make a new application which typically takes longer.
Keeping Payments Active Month After Month
- Reapply early. Do not wait for the final week of October.
- Update your mobile number so you receive every review notice and OTP.
- Keep bank details current. If your card expires or you switch banks, file the change before the next pay run.
- Respond to requests within the stated timeframe. Upload or hand in documents as soon as you are asked.
- Use the status checker regularly to spot issues before the pay date.
- Store receipts and case numbers. These help staff resolve queries quickly.
Payment Dates and Access Options
The Older Persons Grant typically pays in the first week of the month. For November 2025, payments are scheduled to begin from 4 November 2025. You can access funds by
- card withdrawals at ATMs
- purchases and cash outs at participating retailers
- standard bank transfers to your nominated account
Avoid peak day queues where possible. Your money stays in the account until you withdraw.
How To Check Status or Get Help
- Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za for application links and notices
- Call: 0800 60 10 11 toll free
- SMS utility: Use the status prompt where available, keep your ID and registered mobile ready
- Local SASSA office: Best for updating numbers, changing payment method, or submitting affidavits
If your phone number changed, update it at an office with your ID so you continue receiving OTPs and payment notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the last date to reapply for the Older Persons Grant
Aim to complete reapplication before 31 October 2025. Submitting early helps ensure processing before the November cycle.
2. What happens if I miss the deadline
Your grant may be suspended. Use the 90 day restoration window to submit outstanding documents and restore payments. Back pay may be considered from the suspension date after approval.
3. Can someone reapply on my behalf if I am ill or housebound
Yes. A family member can assist with an affidavit and written authorization. Ask your local office for the correct wording and attach your ID copy.
4. How long does SASSA take to process a reapplication
Most complete files are finalized within 7 to 14 working days. Missing or unclear documents extend timelines.
5. Which documents are mandatory for reapplication
ID, proof of residence, updated bank details if they changed, proof of marital status when relevant, and any income or asset evidence required by the means test.
Official Site
For forms, status checks, and the latest notices visit
https://www.sassa.gov.za
For More Information Click HERE
