Under financial difficulties, Sassa (South African Social Security Agency) has announced substantial assistance for recipients.The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has raised the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) benefits by R400 every month. SASSA implemented this decision to help financially struggling individuals who either earn too little or cannot find work.
In this article, we will know who is eligible for this SRD R400 grant, how to apply, what is the new schedule of payment and other important information related to it.
Who is eligible for the SRD R400 grant?
Some special eligibility criteria have been set by SASSA for this grant. If you want to take advantage of this scheme, then you must fulfill the following conditions:
- Citizenship and Residence
- The applicant must be a citizen of South Africa, a permanent resident or a recognized refugee.
- It is mandatory for the applicant to live in South Africa at the time of application.
- Income and Employment Status
- The monthly income of the applicant should be less than R624.
- The applicant must be unemployed and not receiving benefits from any other government financial assistance (such as NSFAS, UIF or other SASSA grants).
- Age Limit
- The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
- The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
- Banking and Contact Details
- The applicant must have a valid bank account to which payments can be sent directly.
- An active mobile number and email address must be provided so as to receive information from SASSA.
How to Apply for the SRD R400 Grant?
The application procedure through SASSA remains uncomplicated. SASSA applications are possible through three channels which include their online portal along with WhatsApp connections and their local office network.
- Prepare the Required Documents
- South African Identity Card (ID) or Refugee Permit.
- Bank Account Details.
- Proof of Income (if applicable).
- Valid Mobile Number for Verification.
- Apply Online
- Visit the official website of SASSA.
- Click on the “Apply for SRD” option and fill in the requested information.
- Upload the required documents and submit the form.
- You will receive a confirmation message (SMS) after a successful application.
- Apply via WhatsApp
- Send a WhatsApp message from your mobile to the number 082 046 8553.
- Follow the instructions and provide the required information.
- Apply at a SASSA office
- Visit your nearest SASSA service centre.
- Fill in the application form and submit the required documents.
- After submitting the form, you will be given a reference number so you can track the status of your application.
New payment schedule for SRD R400 Grant
SASSA has announced new dates for the payment of the SRD R400 Grant for March 2025. The payment will be made according to the last digits of the ID Number:
Note: Payments will be deposited directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries. Those who do not have a bank account can receive payment from the following designated payment centres: Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer and Checkers.
Conclusion
Increasing the SRD grant to R400 is a historic relief for those who are struggling with financial difficulties. It will provide a much-needed cushion, especially for the unemployed, underemployed,d and low-income earners.
If you are eligible for this grant, apply as soon as possible and keep an eye on the payment dates. For any kind of information or problem, you can contact SASSA on its official website or helpline number.
This initiative, launched by SASSA, will benefit thousands of South African citizens – don’t delay, apply and avail the financial relief.
FAQs on SASSA Increases SRD Grant to R400
Q. What is the new SRD grant amount by SASSA?
A. The SRD grant has been increased to R400.
Q. When will the R400 SRD grant increase take effect?
A. The new payment amount starts from the next scheduled payment cycle.
Q. Who is eligible for the R400 SRD grant?
A. South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 18-60 with little to no income may be eligible.
April 25, 2025