If you’re looking for genuine financial help during tough times in South Africa, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant can make a difference. This article will guide you with complete details about what the SRD grant is, who can apply, how to apply, and all the official information you need to get started.
💳 What is the SRD Grant?
The SRD Grant, also known as the R370 SASSA Grant, is a monthly payment provided by the South African government to help unemployed citizens, refugees, or asylum seekers who do not receive any other form of income, UIF, or social grant.
- Grant Name: Social Relief of Distress (SRD)
- Amount Paid: R370 per month
- Managed By: SASSA (South African Social Security Agency)
This grant was initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since been extended due to ongoing need.
🧱 Who Can Apply for the SRD Grant?
To qualify for the SASSA R370 grant, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18 to 59 years old |
| Employment Status | Must be unemployed |
| Other Social Grants | Cannot be receiving any other SASSA grant |
| UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) | Must not be receiving UIF payments |
| Monthly Income Limit | Less than R624 per month |
| Citizenship Status | South African citizens, permanent residents, or legal refugees/asylum seekers |
🌐 Official Website to Apply
You can apply directly online without visiting any office. Just use the official SASSA SRD website:
Website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
This site is completely free to use and updated regularly with the latest SRD application news.
🚀 How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Follow these easy steps to apply:
- Visit the official website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Scroll to the section that says “How do I apply for this SRD Grant?”
- Click on the ID type that matches your status (SA ID, refugee number, etc.)
- Provide your:
- ID number or permit number
- Mobile phone number (must be registered in your name)
- Banking details (or choose Postbank/Cardless withdrawal option)
- Follow the prompts and submit your application
- You will receive an SMS confirming your application
Important: Make sure your contact details are correct because SASSA will use them for all updates.
🌊 How to Claim or Receive SRD Payments
Once your SRD application is approved, you can choose from multiple payment options:
| Payment Method | Details |
| Bank Transfer | Direct deposit to your personal bank account |
| Postbank Cardless ATM | Use a unique PIN and voucher to withdraw from Pick n Pay, Boxer, or Shoprite |
| Retail Stores | Collect cash using your mobile number at selected retailers |
You can check your SRD grant status or payment dates here:
⚡ Are There Any Charges to Apply?
No, applying for the SRD grant is 100% free. You do not have to pay anyone or any website.
- ❌ No registration fees
- ❌ No service fees
- ✅ Completely free official service
Be careful of fake websites or people who claim to get you approved faster for a fee.
| ✅ Grant Status | ✅ Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | R370 per month |
| Current Extension End | March 2026 |
| Allocation | R35.2 billion set aside |
| Eligibility Checks | Means test (<R624 income), unemployed 18‑59 |
| Future Outlook | Under policy review and legal adjustments |
📅 Current Status of the SRD Grant
- Extended until March 2026:
Finance Minister Godongwana confirmed during the 2025 Budget Speech that the R370/month SRD Grant has been extended “by a year to end March 2026,” with a provisional R35.2 billion funding allocation. - Temporary extension past March 2025:
Though originally scheduled to end in March 2025, ongoing political and budget adjustments delayed its discontinuation. It was officially extended to March 2026.