Councillor and leader of the Democratic Liberal Congress (DLC), Patrick Pillay, has stepped forward to calm concerns among pensioners following false messages circulating on social media. The misleading posts claimed that old age grants would be stopped in May if certain documents weren’t updated by 30 April.
The rumours sparked unnecessary fear among many elderly residents who depend on their monthly grants to make ends meet. Pillay assured the community that there is no truth to these claims. “These monthly grants are a lifeline for the majority of pensioners facing financial hardship and who rely solely on their grants for survival. The DLC condemns the spread of fake news, as it causes unnecessary anxiety and stress for vulnerable individuals,” said Pillay.
The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) also confirmed that the social media posts are incorrect and fake. “We urge our pensioner beneficiaries not to panic, as no grant will be cancelled,” said Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi. He emphasised the importance of relying on credible sources of information and verifying the authenticity of any information before sharing it. Sassa has reaffirmed that the deadline for the Sassa Gold Cards has been extended until 31 May. The extension allows beneficiaries to continue using their existing cards for grant payments while changing over to the new Postbank Black Cards.
Pillay further explained that while some grants are subject to routine reviews, beneficiaries will be given a three-month notice period should their grant require review. “The review will be based on changes in income or life certifications. Grants may be suspended if circumstances change, if a beneficiary fails to cooperate during a review, or if fraud or misrepresentation is detected. Grants will lapse only if the beneficiary passes away, is admitted to a state institution, does not claim their grant for three consecutive months or if they leave the country.”
He urged pensioners to remain calm and only rely on official sources of information. For more information or assistance regarding your pension, call the DLC offices at Tab Centre, 1st Floor.
