In 2021/2021 South Africa’s social wage grew to R1.1 trillion in 2021/22 from R860 billion in 2018/19. A country's social wage refers to the services that reduce the cost of living.
Components of the country's more than R1.1 trillion social wage includes grants, housing development, free basic services, employment programmes, health, and education. Statistics South Africa recently revealed that approximately 7,6 million people are unemployed. This demonstrates the need for social support.
Social support grants are distributed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Around 27.8 million South Africans are social grant recipients.
Grant recipients can recieve their money via two methods
- Your Bank Account
Grant recipients can choose to have their grants paid into their personal bank accounts. However, you will be responsible for any bank charges that may incur if you choose the option. You will also have to complete a form confirming your bank account details.
- SASSA Card Account
Alternatively, SASSA grant recipients can choose to have the money paid in a SASSA card account. Should you choose this option, then you will not have any bank charges. You may incur charges if you choose to use your SASSA card for services in excess of those SASSA pays for. You will be enrolled and issued the card by the South African Post Office (SAPO) officials.
For more information about the grants offered by SASSA, you can visit their website by clicking HERE or call their toll-free helpline on 0800 601 011.
