R4.8-billion meant for social grants goes unspent (opens original article in a new tab)

The South African Department of Social Development spent R4.8-billion less than planned on social grants in the 2025/26 financial year, with R3.1-billion of the underspending linked to the Social Relief of Distress grant. MPs raised concerns about potential barriers to access caused by stricter verification measures, while the department attributed the shortfall to improved administration and lower-than-expected grant uptake.

• Department of Social Development spent R4.8-billion less than expected on social grants in 2025/26 financial year
• R3.1-billion underspending related to SRD grant needs to be paid in 2026/27
• MPs questioned if stricter verification measures prevented eligible beneficiaries from accessing grants