What are the pension benefits when someone dies?
The South African Social Security Agency provides various social grants to eligible citizens, including a pension for older persons.
But what happens to these benefits when a pensioner passes away?
This article explains the payout options available to beneficiaries in such circumstances and guides you through the claims process.
Start SASSA Status Check NowWhat happens to my SASSA pension if I die?
SASSA pensions generally cease upon the death of the beneficiary.
However, there are provisions for survivor benefits under certain circumstances.
These benefits aim to provide some financial support to the deceased’s dependents, such as a spouse or dependent children.
Does my spouse get my SASSA pension when I die?
Yes, in most cases, a surviving spouse qualifies for survivor benefits from SASSA.
The type and amount of benefits will depend on whether the deceased pensioner:
- Had chosen a joint pension: If the deceased opted for a joint pension during their application, the surviving spouse will automatically continue receiving a portion of the pension. This portion is usually a percentage of the original pension amount.
- Did not choose a joint pension: Even without a joint pension, the surviving spouse may still be eligible for a survivor’s pension. However, they will need to apply for it at a SASSA local office. The eligibility criteria and application process will be explained in detail.
Can my children get my SASSA pension if I die?
Dependent children under the age of 18 (or 21 if disabled) may be eligible for survivor benefits if they lose a parent who was a SASSA pensioner.
The specific eligibility criteria and application process will be determined by SASSA based on the individual circumstances.
How long will my spouse receive survivor benefits?
The duration for which a surviving spouse receives benefits depends on several factors, including:
- The age of the spouse at the time of the pensioner’s death
- Whether the spouse remarries
In most cases, a surviving spouse will continue to receive benefits until they reach the qualifying age for their own SASSA pension. However, if the spouse remarries, the survivor benefits will cease.
If the deceased pensioner had no surviving spouse or dependent children, there are no survivor benefits payable by SASSA.
In such cases, any unclaimed pension funds are forfeited.
What documents do I need to claim a survivor’s pension from SASSA?
To claim a survivor’s pension, you will need to submit the following documents to your nearest SASSA local office:
- The completed SASSA Death Notification Form (available at SASSA offices)
- A certified copy of the death certificate of the deceased pensioner
- Your South African ID document (original and a copy)
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased pensioner (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Proof of dependency, if applicable (e.g. school report card for children, medical certificate for disabled adults)
- Your banking details (account number and branch code)
How long does it take to receive a survivor’s pension from SASSA?
The processing time for survivor’s pension claims can vary depending on the completeness of your application and any required verifications.
It normally takes between two to six weeks for a decision to be made.
Can I inherit a lump sum from a deceased SASSA pensioner?
In most cases, there is no lump sum payout for survivor’s benefits from SASSA. The survivor’s pension is paid out as a monthly amount.
However, there might be instances where the deceased pensioner had unwithdrawn grant money in their account.
This unwithdrawn amount can be claimed by following SASSA’s specific procedures for unclaimed benefits.
What to do if the deceased SASSA pensioner had a partner but no children
If the deceased pensioner had a legal spouse or partner but no children under 18 or disabled adult children, the surviving spouse/partner may be eligible for the full survivor’s pension amount.
This assumes there are no other dependants with a valid claim.