The number of people eligible for grants is due to reach 16.5 million by 2016/17. The recent re-registration of grant recipients and the introduction of a new payment system have lowered the cost of administration. One million invalid beneficiaries were removed from the system. Social grants are meant for those who need them most.

Grant recipients will receive the following increases this year:

•        The old age and disability grants will increase in April from R1270 a month to R1350,

•        The foster care grant will increase from R800 to R830, and

•        The child support grant will increase from R300 to R310 a month in April, and to R320 in October.