Confirmed by SASSA on 29 July 2026. Always confirm your own payment date in the SRD portal or at your pay point.
SASSA has published the August 2026 payment schedule. This month introduces a new 4th-day payment window — 7 August — which has been added specifically for grant reviews and backlog clearances. Beneficiaries should take note of the adjusted schedule and plan their collections accordingly.
New 4th-Day Cycle: What Has Changed
Starting in August 2026, SASSA introduced a fourth payment window on 7 August 2026, primarily to accommodate grant review outcomes and backlog payments. Previously, grant reviews were processed ad hoc throughout the month, causing confusion. This new dedicated day streamlines payments for beneficiaries whose reviews are finalised by the end of the previous month.
4th-Day Payments Are Not for Everyone
The new 4th-day payment date (7 August) is specifically for grant review beneficiaries, backdated payments, and exceptional cases. If you receive your grant on a regular cycle without any review pending, continue collecting on your usual date (4, 5, or 6 August).
August 2026 Payment Schedule
| Grant type | Payment date | Day | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant (Pension) | 4 August 2026 | Tuesday | Paid |
| Disability Grant | 5 August 2026 | Wednesday | Paid |
| Children's Grants (CSG, Foster Care, CDG) | 6 August 2026 | Thursday | Paid |
| Review and verification cases | 7 August 2026 | Friday | Paid — notified beneficiaries |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD R370) | 25-31 August 2026 | Month-end batches | Paid — batches complete |
How the Grant Review Process Works
You receive a review notice
SASSA sends a letter or SMS to inform you that your grant is due for review. This typically happens once a year for permanent grants.
Visit your SASSA office with documents
Take your ID, proof of residence, and any income-related documents to your nearest SASSA office. The officer will update your information.
SASSA processes the review
Your file is updated and reviewed internally. If everything is in order, your grant continues uninterrupted. If changes are needed, you will be notified.
Payment on the new 4th-day cycle
If your review is approved after the standard payment dates have passed, you will receive your backdated payment on the fourth payment day (7 August 2026).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new 4th-day cycle and who qualifies for it?
The 4th-day cycle is a payment window introduced on 7 August 2026. It is for beneficiaries whose grants are under review, those receiving backdated payments, and exceptional cases where the regular payment window was missed. It does not replace the existing three payment dates.
I collect my Older Persons Grant on the 4th. Will this change in August?
No. Your payment date remains 4 August 2026. The new 4th-day cycle (7 August) is an additional window, not a replacement. Only collect on the 7th if SASSA has specifically notified you that your payment falls under the new cycle.
How do I know if my grant is under review?
SASSA will notify you by SMS or post if your grant is due for review. You can also check your status at any SASSA office or by calling the toll-free helpline on 0800 60 10 11. Do not wait for a notice if you have changed address — update your details proactively.
Will the SRD R370 be paid on the same day as the 4th-day cycle?
No. The 4th-day cycle (7 August) is for permanent grant beneficiaries flagged for reviews and eLife certification. SRD R370 payments for August 2026 are processed separately in the 25-31 August window, as normal.
What happens if my grant review is not completed by August?
If your review is still in progress at the end of July, your payment for August may be delayed until the review is finalised. You will receive backdated payment once approved. Contact your SASSA office for an update on the review timeline.
Avoid Scams During Review Season
Fraudsters often target beneficiaries during review periods. SASSA will never ask for your PIN, password, or bank account details over the phone. Do not pay anyone who promises to 'fast-track' your review. All SASSA services are free.
Need Official Assistance?
This is an independent informational resource. For official services — checking your grant status, updating your details, or submitting an appeal — please use the official SASSA portals directly: