The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced major changes to the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, starting February 2025.
These updates expand eligibility, improve application processes, and speed up appeals, ensuring more South Africans receive financial support.
If you currently receive the R370 grant or want to apply for the first time, this guide explains the latest updates, eligibility criteria, payment dates, and how to claim.
SASSA SRD Grant Changes – Key Updates for 2025
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Threshold Increase | Raised from R350 to R624 per month, allowing more applicants to qualify. |
| Payment Amount | Remains at R370 per month. |
| Payment Dates (February 2025) | Payments will be processed between February 24 – February 28. |
| Application Process | Now includes in-person applications at SASSA offices, alongside online applications. |
| Appeals Process | Faster processing – appeals will now be reviewed within 30 days instead of 90 days. |
| Official Resource | SASSA SRD Website |
With these changes, more unemployed South Africans can qualify for the SRD grant.
What Is the SASSA SRD Grant?
The SRD grant is a temporary financial support program aimed at unemployed individuals who do not receive other government benefits.
Originally introduced in May 2020 during COVID-19, the grant has been extended multiple times due to ongoing economic struggles.
🔹 Key Features of the SRD Grant:
✔️ Provides R370 per month.
✔️ Available to unemployed adults (18-59 years old).
✔️ Not available to pensioners, UIF recipients, or NSFAS-funded students.
📌 SASSA reviews eligibility monthly—so even if you qualify one month, your status can change the next.
New SASSA SRD Grant Changes Effective February 2025
✅ 1. Higher Income Threshold – R624 per Month
- Previously, applicants had to earn less than R350 per month.
- From February 2025, the limit increases to R624 per month.
What This Means:
✔️ More low-income individuals will qualify.
✔️ Informal workers with small earnings may now be eligible.
✔️ Allows better financial relief for those struggling with living costs.
✅ 2. In-Person Applications Now Available
Previously, applications were only accepted online. Now, you can apply at SASSA offices.
New Application Methods for 2025:
📌 Online – Apply via the SASSA website.
📌 In-Person – Visit your nearest SASSA office for assistance.
📌 USSD Service – Dial 1347737# for application status updates.
Why This Matters:
✔️ Helps those without internet access apply easily.
✔️ Ensures quicker support for applicants.
✅ 3. Faster Appeals Process – 30-Day Decision Time
- Previously, appeals took up to 90 days to process.
- Now, appeals will be reviewed within 30 days.
What This Means for Applicants:
✔️ Faster decisions on rejected applications.
✔️ More transparency in the appeals process.
✔️ Less waiting time for applicants needing urgent support.
Eligibility Criteria for the SRD Grant in 2025
To qualify for the SRD grant, you must meet these requirements:
✅ South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee.
✅ Aged between 18 and 59 years old.
✅ Unemployed and earning less than R624 per month.
✅ Not receiving other social grants (e.g., child support, pension, or disability grant).
✅ Not receiving UIF benefits or NSFAS funding.
📌 Important: SASSA conducts monthly financial checks using bank records and Home Affairs data to prevent fraud.
How to Apply for the SASSA SRD Grant (2025 Updated Process)
✅ 1. Online Application (Fastest Option)
📌 Step 1: Visit SASSA SRD Website.
📌 Step 2: Fill in the application form with your ID number, phone number, and banking details.
📌 Step 3: Submit the form and wait for confirmation.
📌 Step 4: Check your status online or via SMS.
✅ 2. In-Person Application (New Option for 2025)
📌 Step 1: Visit your nearest SASSA office.
📌 Step 2: Fill out the SRD grant application form (SASSA agents can assist).
📌 Step 3: Submit documents (Valid ID, proof of residence, financial statement).
📌 Step 4: Receive a reference number to track your status.
✅ 3. USSD Application & Status Check
Dial 1347737# and follow the on-screen instructions to check your status.
SASSA SRD Grant Payment Details for February 2025
📅 Payment Dates:
✔️ February 24 – February 28, 2025 (Payments processed in batches).
📌 Payment Methods:
✔️ Direct Bank Deposit – Fastest option for recipients with bank accounts.
✔️ SASSA PayPoints – For those without bank accounts.
🔹 How to Check Payment Status:
1️⃣ Visit the SASSA website.
2️⃣ Click on “Check My Status”.
3️⃣ Enter your ID and phone number.
4️⃣ View your payment details.
What If Your SRD Application Is Rejected?
If your application is denied, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Visit the SASSA Appeal Portal.
2️⃣ Enter your ID number & phone number.
3️⃣ Provide reasons for your appeal.
4️⃣ Wait for SASSA to review (within 30 days).
📌 Tip: Always double-check your application details before appealing.
The SASSA SRD Grant Changes from February 2025 will help more unemployed South Africans access financial relief by:
✔️ Raising the income threshold to R624.
✔️ Allowing in-person applications at SASSA offices.
✔️ Speeding up the appeals process (30 days instead of 90).
🔹 If you’re already receiving the R370 grant, no reapplication is needed.
🔹 New applicants can apply online or at SASSA offices.
🔹 Payments for February 2025 will be made from February 24-28.
📌 Need help? Visit SASSA SRD or call SASSA for assistance.
👉 Apply today and ensure you receive your financial support in 2025!
