Please note that since this book was last published in 1997 some of the laws that have been referenced may have changed. We
are doing our best to update the articles, however, it is advisable that you to consult an attorney before relying on any information contained herein.
An ex-serviceman's pension is the regular payment by the state
to certain men and women over the age of 60 who served in South
Africa's armed forces.
To qualify for a war veteran's pension, which is slightly
higher than an old-age pension, applicants must be South African
residents and citizens on the date of application. Alternatively,
they must have lived in South Africa for at least five years out
of the 10 years immediately before the date that the application
is made. Recipients include those who fought in:
- The First World War of 1914-18;
- The Second World War of 1939-45; and
- The Korean War of 1950-53.
Previously those who fought in the South African War, The
'Zulu rebellion' of 1906 and the burgher protests of 1914-15 were
also included.
A war veteran under the prescribed age of 60 may still qualify
for the pension if medically unfit for work.
Old-age pensioners and war veterans may qualify for certain
further allowances. For instance, if they are infirm, they may
qualify for an attendance allowance. Also, an old-age pensioner
or war veteran who has applied for a pension after he or she
could have first applied will be entitled to an additional
amount. A war veteran's pension is tax exempt.
The Military Pensions Act 84 of 1976 provides for pensions,
gratuities and medical treatment for personnel disabled during
any period of actual military service or training with the
part-time forces of the sandf. (See territorial units.)
The Act also provides (in certain circumstances) for temporary
pensions to be paid to dependants or parents of missing or
deceased members of the armed forces. To qualify, applicants must
have been disabled:
- During military service inside or outside South Africa;
- At a barracks or camp;
- To or from home or another place of destination 'over a
direct route' while on authorised leave;
- During training;
- As a result of an unprovoked assault for being a member
of the South African National Defence Force.
The Government Service Pensions Act, 1973, provides for
pensions and other benefits for government employees (including
members of the Permanent Force).
The Act stipulates when a member of the force may retire and
circumstances in which early retirement may be permitted.
