As millions of vulnerable households brace for rising living costs, the R370 SASSA SRD Grant remains a critical lifeline in 2025/26.
With a proposed R23.3 billion boost to social grants, the stakes for applicants have never been higher. Yet, simple errors—like income miscalculations or missed biometric checks—risk excluding eligible South Africans from this vital support.
Here’s how to sidestep pitfalls, leverage SASSA’s upgraded systems, and secure your monthly R370 amid tightened budgets and soaring demand.
Key mistakes to avoid
- Overestimating your income
The SRD grant’s eligibility threshold is R624/month (excluding one-time gifts). Even earning R625 disqualifies you. Applicants are required to undergo a means test to determine their eligibility, which assesses their income and assets.
- Fix: Declare all income sources, including informal work, gig earnings, or temporary support.
2. Skipping biometric verification
- SASSA’s revived electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) system is mandatory. Incomplete facial/fingerprint scans lead to instant rejection.
- Fix: Use a well-lit room and stable internet for smooth eKYC completion.
3. Mismatched personal details
- Typos in your ID number, address, or bank details trigger automated rejections.
- Fix: Triple-check entries and ensure your ID matches your bank/Cellphone records.
4. Missing the deadline
- Applications deadline for April 2025 expected to be made soon. Late submissions risk exclusion.
- Fix: Apply early—over 16 million sought the grant in 2024.
Step-by-step guide to apply
Revised guide: How to Apply or Reapply for the SRD R370 Grant
Application method/s
Online-only application process vs In-person Option
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant application process is ‘unfairly’ unique in that it must be submitted exclusively online, unlike other social grants, which allow in-person applications.
This digital requirement has drawn criticism from experts, who argue that it disproportionately disadvantages vulnerable applicants—particularly those without reliable internet access, digital devices, or adequate tech literacy. Despite these concerns, individuals in urgent need of financial support must comply with SASSA’s online mandate to apply.
This policy remains contentious. A recent court ruling —initiated by the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ)—has ordered SASSA to align the SRD Grant application process with other social grants by enabling in-person submissions. However, the Department of Social Development has yet to implement changes or formally respond to the court’s directive.
How to apply online
Visit the[official SRD website to submit your application.
Key Recommendations
- Check eligibility criteria: Confirm you meet all requirements before reapplying.
- Review previous rejections: Address the reasons your prior application was denied (e.g., incorrect details, outdated documentation).
Important Notes
Contact SASSA through the channels below for lodging official enquiries:
- Phone: 080 060 1011 (toll-free)
- WhatsApp: +27 82 046 8553
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Avoid unnecessary visits: Use the above channels for quick assistance.
Prepare documents:
- SA ID/birth certificate.
- Proof of unemployment (e.g., UIF letter, sworn affidavit).
- Recent bank statements (if applicable).
Track your application status
1. Save your reference number: After you submit your reapplication, you will receive a confirmation message: ’’Your request for reapplication has been successfully received’’. You will also receive a reference number. Keep this reference number safe, as you may need it in the future to track the progress of your application and status check.
2. Check progress regularly: Monitor updates via the SRD status portal as indicated earlier.
➡️Provide your South African ID number and the phone number you used for your reapplication application.
➡️Click the “send pin” button. You will receive an OTP on your registered phone number – enter that on the website.
After the SASSA website verifies the OTP, your reapplication status will be shown on the screen.
What to do if rejected
- Lodge an appeal
Applicants unhappy with the outcome of their applications, like one X user highlighted in the threat below, can lodge an appeal on the SRD website by selecting “Lodging an appeal option” and clicking on “DSD Appeals” website.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The portal frequently experiences outages – as it was the case when we visited the site this weekend (March 8 and 9, 2025). Users often encounter the message “The service is unavailable at the moment. Please try again later.” If this occurs, try accessing the site during off-peak hours or check back later.
Track outcomes
- Decisions take 2–3 working days. If upheld, seek legal review.
IMPORTANT NOTE –Unsuccessful appeal: If your appeal is denied, you may need to take further action, such as approaching the High Court for a review.
Proposed 2025 Grant Increases
| Grant Type | Current value | April 2025 Proposed Value |
|---|---|---|
| SRD Grant | R370 | To be confirmed |
| Child Support Grant | R510 | R545 |
| Older Persons’ Grant | R2,180 | R2,330 |
Note: Final increases and April SRD payment date depend on March 12 Budget Speech approval.
Payment & collection tips
- Direct deposit: Link your bank account for instant payments.
- Retail pickups: Withdraw cash at Pick n Pay, Checkers, Spar or Boxer stores.
- Avoid crowds: SASSA confirms funds remain available post-payment—no need to rush.
Key dates for March/April 2025 SRD grants
- March 26 28: SRD March payment processing
- March 12: Deadline for new applicants.
- April 2025: First payments under the new budget.
Final Tip:
“Double-check every detail and apply early,” advises SASSA spokesperson Zodwa Mvulane. “The eKYC system is now fully functional—use it to fast-track your application.”
With millions relying on the SRD grant, avoiding these pitfalls could mean the difference between approval and financial distress. Stay informed via @OfficialSASSA.
