As the 2024/2025 financial year for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant payments draws to a close in March 2025, beneficiaries are eager to know whether their final payments, including the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, will be paid earlier than usual.
According to SASSA’s payment schedule, the final grant payments for March will follow the same dates as February:
- Older persons grant – March 4
- Disability grant – March 5
- Child support grant – March 6
However, there is speculation that SRD grant beneficiaries may receive their payments slightly earlier in March, though exact dates have not been officially confirmed.
Uncertainty over SRD grants
The SRD grant, introduced as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been a critical source of support for millions of South Africans. With the financial year ending in March, beneficiaries are anxiously awaiting news on whether the grant will be extended or discontinued.
While no official announcement has been made regarding early payments, the possibility of SRD grants being paid earlier than other grants has sparked hope among recipients. This could be part of SASSA’s efforts to streamline the transition to the new Postbank black card system, which will replace the gold card after March 20.
To check your SRD payment status, visit the SASSA SRD website: srd.sassa.gov.za.
Transition to New Black Cards
SASSA has urged beneficiaries to migrate to the new Postbank black card by February 28 to avoid disruptions in accessing their grants. The gold card will be disabled after March 20, marking the end of its use for grant payments.
SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi confirmed that beneficiaries can still use their gold cards during the March payment cycle (March 4–6) for withdrawals, balance inquiries, and purchases. However, Acting CEO Themba Matlou emphasized the importance of switching to the new card to ensure uninterrupted access to future payments.
Looking ahead
As the financial year concludes, beneficiaries are advised to stay informed about payment dates and the migration process to the new black card. While early payments for SRD grants remain uncertain, SASSA’s focus on ensuring a smooth card transition suggests that beneficiaries may receive their final payments on time, if not slightly earlier.
For now, all eyes are on SASSA for updates regarding the SRD grant’s future and any potential changes to payment schedules.
