The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has defended its decision to suspend pension grants for some elderly beneficiaries, saying it is legally required to review payments when changes in financial circumstances are suspected.
Social Development Minister Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe responded to parliamentary questions about the suspensions, which have drawn criticism. MK Party MP Zelna Saira Abader had questioned whether cutting grants due to small additional incomes was legally or morally justified.
Legal Basis for Grant Reviews
Tolashe pointed to the Social Assistance Regulations as the legal framework allowing Sassa to reassess grants.
“Under Section 30(2)(a) of the regulations, Sassa must act if it suspects a change in a beneficiary’s situation,” she said. The agency has a duty to review cases where financial circumstances may have shifted, ensuring only eligible recipients continue receiving support.
Each case is individually assessed based on set criteria, the minister added.
Suspensions Not Based on Small Incomes Alone
Sassa denied claims that grants are suspended solely because of minor additional earnings.
“Suspensions do not happen just because of small or irregular income,” Tolashe clarified. Beneficiaries are given a chance to explain their financial situation during reviews.
Grants are only stopped if there is evidence of fraud, if the person no longer qualifies, or if they fail to comply with the Social Assistance Act, she said.
Eligibility and Fairness
The older persons’ grant is meant to support dignified living for seniors, but not everyone automatically qualifies at age 60. Each application is checked against eligibility rules, and regular reviews ensure the system remains fair.
Tolashe stressed that both Sassa and beneficiaries share responsibility. Recipients must report changes in their circumstances, while Sassa has the right to conduct reviews to prevent abuse.
“These checks are not meant to harm beneficiaries but to protect the integrity of the social assistance system,” she said.