Cape Town — In a groundbreaking move to widen access to critical financial aid, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is set to remove income checks for first-time applicants of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.
This change, driven by a landmark court ruling and advocacy pressure, could see thousands more vulnerable citizens qualify for the lifeline payment.
Why this matters
- No more income declarations: Questions about gifts, temporary support, or child grants will no longer disqualify applicants.
- Simplified eligibility: The R625/month threshold remains, but proving income is no longer required.
- Court-ordered reforms: Follows Judge Leonard Twala’s January 2025 ruling that deemed prior regulations “unconstitutional.”
Nathan Taylor (#PayTheGrants): “This is progress, but systemic flaws persist. Apply now to secure your grant while the system evolves.”
Urgent 2025/26 application guide: avoid costly mistakes
With over 16 million applicants expected, avoid these errors to maximize approval chances:
1. Overestimating income? Not anymore!
- Old rule: Earning R625+ (including gifts) disqualified you.
- New rule: Only regular income counts. Temporary support or one-off gifts are ignored.
- Fix: Apply confidently—no need to declare informal or irregular earnings.
2. Skipping biometric verification? Instant rejection!
- SASSA’s eKYC system (facial/fingerprint scans) is mandatory.
- Fix: Use a well-lit room, stable internet, and follow on-screen prompts.
3. Mismatched details? Automated denial!
- Typos in ID, bank info, or phone numbers trigger rejections.
- Fix: Triple-check entries against official documents.
4. Missing the deadline? Apply now!
- Applications for the April 2025 cycle close 14 April 2025.
- Fix: Submit early—delays risk exclusion.
How to apply: Step-by-step
1. Online (Fastest Method)
- Visit SRD Website.
- Enter SA ID, mobile number, and banking details (or select retail pickup).
- Complete eKYC biometric verification.
2. WhatsApp
- Send “SRD” to 082 046 8553 and follow prompts.
3. USSD
- Dial *1347737# (no airtime needed).
4. Track Your Status
- Save your reference number post-application.
- Check progress via the SRD portal.
If rejected: act quickly!
- Go to the SASSA Appeal Portal to lodge your appeal
- Submit your appeal within 30 days of receiving the rejection.
- Still Unsuccessful? Consider legal support from advocacy groups like #PayTheGrants.
Payment tips
- Direct deposit: Link your bank account for instant payments.
- Retail pickup: Collect cash at Pick n Pay, Checkers, or Boxer stores.
- No rush: SASSA confirms funds stay available for 90 days.
Proposed 2025 grant increases
| Grant Type | Current Value | Proposed 2025 Value |
|---|---|---|
| SRD Grant | R370 | To be confirmed* |
| Child Support Grant | R510 | R545 |
| Older Persons’ Grant | R2,180 | R2,330 |
ALSO READ: Budget Speech 2025 Summary: SRD/SASSA grants, fuel prices, VAT hike, 9.4bn SANDF boost
Act now—before It’s too late!
“This change is a step toward dignity,” says Marecia Damons (IEJ). “But delays could lock out those in dire need.”
Need Help?
- Call SASSA: 080 060 1011 (toll-free)
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Apply today and share this guide—every R370 counts!
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