The R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant continues to provide vital financial support to South Africans facing unemployment.
Administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), this grant is targeted at individuals who are unemployed and do not receive other forms of government assistance.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about the R370 payments in 2025, including eligibility criteria, key payment dates, and how to apply or check your payment status.
What is the R370 Grant?
The R370 SRD grant was introduced in 2020 as a temporary measure to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While initially short-term, the grant has since been extended multiple times due to ongoing economic challenges.
Even though the pandemic has passed, high unemployment and economic hardship persist, prompting the government to maintain this essential support in 2025.
The grant provides R370 per month to eligible individuals, offering a financial lifeline for basic expenses like food, transportation, and healthcare.
Key Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | R370 per month |
| Eligibility Criteria | Ages 18–59, unemployed, no other government support |
| Application Process | Automatic for existing beneficiaries |
| Payment Dates (2025) | Monthly, from the 25th to the end of each month |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, Cash Send, retail stores (Pick n Pay, Shoprite, etc.) |
| Official Website | SASSA SRD Website |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the R370 grant, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement:
- You must be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Citizenship or Residency:
- You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee.
- Unemployment Status:
- The grant is intended for those who are unemployed and not receiving any other government support (such as the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) or other social grants).
- Income Limit:
- You must have no significant income. If your monthly income exceeds R624, you won’t qualify.
- No NSFAS or Similar Support:
- If you’re receiving a NSFAS bursary or other government funding, you may not be eligible for this grant.
How to Apply for the R370 Grant
Application Steps
If you’re an existing beneficiary, you don’t need to reapply for the grant. Your eligibility will be automatically reviewed until March 2025. However, new applicants must follow the standard application process.
- Visit the SASSA Website:
- Go to the SASSA SRD Website to start your application.
- Fill Out the Online Form:
- Provide personal details, proof of identity, and relevant information about your income and living situation.
- Submit the Application:
- Double-check all your details to avoid delays, then submit your form.
- Await Confirmation:
- SASSA will assess your application and notify you of the outcome.
Check Your Application Status
If you’ve already applied, visit the SASSA SRD status page to track your application. This tool will show if your application is approved, rejected, or still under review.
Payment Dates and Methods
Payment Dates for 2025
Payments are typically processed from the 25th of each month until the end of the month. While the exact date may vary, here’s a rough schedule:
- January 2025: 25th–31st
- February 2025: 22nd–28th
- March 2025: 24th–29th
Payment Methods
You can receive your R370 grant in several ways:
- Bank Transfer
- Payments are deposited directly into your bank account for quick and secure access.
- Cash Send
- If you don’t have a bank account, you can opt for Cash Send, which allows you to collect your payment at participating outlets.
- Retail Store Collection
- Collect your payment at stores like Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, and Boxer. Bring your ID and registered phone number to receive your grant.
How to Appeal a Rejected Application
If your application is rejected, you can appeal the decision through SASSA’s official appeal process.
Steps to Appeal
- Review the Rejection Reason:
- Check the reason provided by SASSA for the rejection.
- Submit an Appeal Online:
- Follow the appeal instructions on the SASSA website. Provide additional documents or clarification if needed.
- Await the Outcome:
- Appeals take time to process, so be patient. SASSA will notify you once a decision is made.
Practical Tips for Beneficiaries
- Budget Wisely:
- Although R370 may seem small, careful planning can help cover essential needs like food and transportation.
- Avoid Debt:
- Try not to rely on high-interest loans to supplement your grant. Focus on using the funds for immediate needs.
- Explore Other Support:
- Look into other financial aid programs, training opportunities, and community resources that may help improve your situation.
