In South Africa, the Social Assistance Act of 2004 provides for a social pension, also known as the old age grant, for citizens and permanent residents who are 60 years of age or older and meet certain criteria. The old age grant is administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and is intended to provide financial assistance to those who have little or no income.

To qualify for the SASSA old age grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Applicants must be 60 years of age or older. However, in some cases, applicants who are 59 years of age may be eligible for the grant.
• Citizenship or permanent residency: Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
• Income: Applicants must have a total income that falls below a certain threshold. The income threshold is adjusted annually and varies depending on whether the applicant is married or single.
• Assets: Applicants must not have assets that exceed a certain threshold. The asset threshold is adjusted annually and includes assets such as property, vehicles, and investments.
• Residential status: Applicants must be resident in South Africa at the time of their application.

Applicants must provide certain documents when applying for the old age grant, including proof of identity, citizenship or permanent residency, and income. They may also be required to provide proof of assets and residence.

The amount of the SASSA old age grant is also adjusted annually and is based on the applicant's marital status and income. As of 2023, the maximum amount for a single pensioner is R1,980 per month, while the maximum amount for a married pensioner is R3,960 per month. These amounts are subject to change each year.

In addition to the old age grant, there are also other forms of social assistance available to elderly citizens and permanent residents in South Africa, including the disability grant, the foster child grant, and the care dependency grant. Eligibility for these grants also depends on meeting certain criteria.

In conclusion, to qualify for the SASSA old age grant in South Africa, applicants must be 60 years of age or older, South African citizens or permanent residents, have a total income and assets below certain thresholds, and be resident in South Africa. The amount of the grant is adjusted annually and depends on the applicant's marital status and income.