What is the SRD “R370” grant?
The Social Relief of Distress grant is a monthly cash benefit paid by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to adults with little to no income. The amount is R370 per month. The increase from R350 to R370 took effect 1 April 2024, through amended regulations published by government.
government confirmed the SRD grant continues until 31 March 2026 in its current form. That means the grant remains available through the 2025/26 financial year while longer‑term reforms are considered.
Who qualifies?
SASSA indicates the SRD grant is intended for South African citizens, refugees, asylum seekers and special‑permit holders who meet the rules below. You must live in South Africa and be 18–59 years old.
Key checks applied during assessment include:
- Means test / income threshold: Regulations currently set the income threshold (measured via bank and database checks) at R624 per month. If your verified monthly income is above this amount, you will not qualify under the existing rules.
- Not receiving other income support that disqualifies you (for example, UIF benefits or another adult social grant). SASSA runs verification across banks and other government databases to confirm eligibility and prevent double‑benefiting.
Note on possible changes: In January, the North Gauteng High Court found parts of the SRD regulations (including the fixed income threshold) unconstitutional. The Department of Social Development (DSD) has acknowledged the judgment and indicated it is addressing it. Until new regulations are gazette, the existing rules still apply.
How to apply for the SRD grant (official channels)
The fastest and most reliable way to apply is online via the SASSA SRD portal. Have your ID, mobile number and basic personal details ready.
Apply online (recommended): Use the SRD portal and follow the on‑screen prompts to submit your application and consent. (See the SRD portal link in the citations.)
e‑KYC & reconfirmation tools: If you’re asked to verify or reconfirm details after applying, SASSA provides secure e‑KYC and reconfirmation pages on the SRD site. These are used to validate identity and keep your details current.
Contact center support: If you need help, call SASSA’s toll‑free line: 0800 60 10 11. Agents can guide you through the process and explain your status.
How to do a SASSA SRD status check
You can check application and payment status on the official SRD status checker. Enter your ID number and the mobile number you used to apply.
- Look for the “Pay Day” field on your status page. When a pay day appears, your payment for that month has been scheduled. If no pay day is shown, payment has not been queued yet.
Because SASSA re‑assesses eligibility every month, your status can differ from one month to the next (approved, pending, or declined). That is normal in the SRD system.
When are SRD payments made?
SASSA does not publish one fixed SRD “pay day” for everyone. Instead, once your monthly assessment is approved and a pay day is assigned in the system, funds are paid to your chosen method.
- Always rely on the “Pay Day” in your SRD status as the authoritative indicator for that month.
- In the 2025 Budget communication, government confirmed no across‑the‑board increase to the SRD amount for April 2025 (other social grants received adjustments). The SRD value remains R370 at present.
Best way to get paid (and avoid delays)
Use your own bank account. It is the safest and usually the fastest method. You can update your banking details on the SRD portal if needed.
If you change your mobile number or email, update them on the SRD site so you don’t miss one‑time PINs or status messages.
How to appeal a declined month
If SASSA declines your application for a given month and you disagree, you can lodge an appeal for that month via the official appeals portal. Appeals are handled by the Independent Tribunal and must be submitted per month you were declined.
Appeal steps:
- Open the official SRD appeals portal.
- Enter your ID number and the mobile number used for your SRD application.
- Request a PIN, log in, and select the month you wish to appeal.
- Provide the required information and submit.
You can also check your appeal status on the same portal.
Recent policy updates you should know
- Grant amount: R370 per person per month from 1 April 2024, as set in the Government Gazette amending the SRD regulations.
- Duration: The SRD grant continues through 31 March 2026, per the 2025 Budget Speech. Government may refine or reform the grant beyond that date.
- Income threshold: The R624 per month threshold (linked to the Food Poverty Line when set) remains the reference point in the current regulations unless officially amended.
- Monthly verification: SASSA performs repeated checks using bank data and other government databases to confirm continued eligibility, prevent duplicates, and detect risk. Ensure your details are accurate.
- Court judgment (Jan 2025): The High Court flagged issues with the fixed threshold and access rules. So, The DSD has acknowledged the ruling; any changes will be communicated officially once new regulations are in place. Keep an eye on SASSA and DSD channels.
Common reasons for delays (how to fix them)
- No bank account or incorrect banking details: Add or correct your bank details on the SRD portal. Payments cannot be made until bank verification succeeds.
- Out‑of‑date contact information: If your SIM changed or your email is wrong, update it first, then recheck status and pay day.
- No “Pay Day” showing yet: Approval may be pending or bank checks are still running. Check the status checker again later in the payment window for that month.
Step‑by‑step: Fast checklist to get your SRD payment
- Apply on the SRD portal (or complete e‑KYC if asked).
- Add bank details (your own account).
- Track your status; look for the Pay Day field.
- If declined, appeal for the specific month.
- Need help? Call 0800 60 10 11.
Safety first: avoid scams
Only use official SASSA and DSD platforms. SASSA will never ask for card PINs, passwords, or fees to process your application. When in doubt, contact the call centre (0800 60 10 11) or visit the official SRD site referenced in this guide.
How much is the SRD grant now?
R370 per month (effective 1 April 2024).
Is the SRD grant still available in 2025/26?
Yes. It is funded through 31 March 2026 per the 2025 Budget.
What income disqualifies me?
Verified monthly income above R624 under the current regulations.
Where do I appeal a decline?
On the official SRD appeals portal. Submit an appeal for each declined month.
How do I change my bank details or contact number?
Use the banking update and contact update tools on the SRD website.