How Does The SRD R370 Grant Work?

I’m here to explain how the SRD R370 Grant works in South Africa, a vital lifeline for millions struggling financially. This Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, managed by SASSA, provides R370 monthly to eligible unemployed individuals.

In this article, I’ll guide you through its purpose, eligibility, application steps, payment process, and more, ensuring you understand every detail clearly.

What Is the SRD R370 Grant?

The SRD R370 Grant supports unemployed South Africans facing economic hardship. Launched in May 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis, it’s managed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). The grant delivers R370 per month to cover essentials like food, transport, and utilities. Extended multiple times, it now aids around 7–9 million people monthly as of 2025, per SASSA’s official updates. Its goal? To reduce poverty and hunger for those with no income.

Who Qualifies for the SRD R370 Grant?

To receive the SRD Grant, you must meet strict eligibility criteria. Here’s what SASSA requires:

• Residency: Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, asylum seeker, or special permit holder (e.g., from Zimbabwe or Angola).
• Age: Between 18 and 59 years old.
• Income: Earn less than R624 per month, excluding gifts, as clarified by a 2025 Pretoria High Court ruling.
• Unemployment: Have no job and receive no other grants, UIF, or NSFAS funding.
• Bank Balance: Keep your bank balance below R624, checked monthly by SASSA.

These rules ensure the grant reaches those in genuine need.

How Do You Apply for the SRD R370 Grant?

Applying for the SRD R370 Grant is straightforward, primarily online, though in-person options are emerging. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the SASSA SRD Website: Go to srd.sassa.gov.za.
2. Choose Your Status: Select citizen, resident, refugee, or asylum seeker.
3. Enter Details: Provide your ID number, name, and active mobile number.
4. Verify with OTP: Receive a 6-digit OTP via SMS and enter it.
5. Complete the Form: Add your address, banking details (if any), and agree to SASSA’s terms.
6. Submit: Save your reference number for tracking.

Alternatively, use WhatsApp (082 046 8553) or USSD (*120*69277#) to start, then complete online. A 2025 court ruling now allows in-person applications at SASSA offices bring your ID, proof of address, and bank statement.

How Does SASSA Verify Applications?

SASSA checks your eligibility using multiple databases:

• Home Affairs: Validates your ID and residency.
• SARS: Confirms no taxable income.
• UIF: Ensures no unemployment benefits.
• Banks: Verifies your balance stays below R624.

If issues arise, like past UIF registration, your application may be flagged as “referred.” Contact SASSA’s hotline (0800 60 1011) to resolve problems. Verification happens monthly to maintain fairness.

How Are SRD Grant Payments Made?

Approved applicants receive R370 monthly, typically between the 25th and 30th of each month. You can choose:

• Bank Deposit: Funds go directly to your personal account. Provide accurate banking details during application.
• Cash Collection: Collect at retailers like Pick n Pay, Shoprite, or Post Office. You’ll get an SMS with a payment code.

For 2025, expect payments on dates like January 25–30, March 25–31, and October 25–30, per SASSA’s schedule. Always check your status to confirm approval.

How to Check Your SRD Grant Status?

Track your application easily:

1. Online: Visit srd.sassa.gov.za, enter your ID and phone number.
2. USSD: Dial 12069277# and follow prompts.
3. WhatsApp: Message 082 046 8553 with your details.
4. SASSA App: Download from Google Play or the App Store.

Statuses include Pending, Approved, Declined, or Referred. If declined, appeal within 30 days at srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals. For canceled grants, request reinstatement at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/reinstate.

Recent Updates to the SRD Grant

In April 2024, the grant increased from R350 to R370. A January 2025 Pretoria High Court ruling made key changes:

• Allowed in-person applications, ending the online-only rule.
• Excluded gifts from the R624 income threshold.
• Ordered gradual increases to match inflation.

These updates make the grant more accessible, though challenges remain.

Challenges Facing the SRD Grant

Despite its impact, the SRD Grant faces issues:

• Exclusions: Up to 50% of eligible applicants are rejected due to strict rules or verification errors, per 2025 reports.
• Low Amount: R370 doesn’t cover a basic food basket (over R400).
• Delays: System glitches cause payment delays for some.
• Fraud: SASSA fights fraudulent applications with biometric checks.

SASSA and partners like Shoprite are improving systems to address these.

How Beneficiaries Use the R370 Grant?

The grant helps buy essentials. For example, beneficiary Thandi M. buys maize meal, eggs, and electricity, stretching the R370 with discounts. Most use it for food, transport, or utilities, though rare cases of misuse (e.g., alcohol) exist. The grant’s value lies in easing daily struggles for millions.

What’s Next for the SRD Grant?

The SRD Grant may evolve into a Basic Income Grant (BIG) by 2026, but funding remains a hurdle costing R6 billion monthly if all 17 million applicants were paid. The government is exploring sustainable social security reforms, per National Treasury.

Tips for a Smooth SRD Grant Application

• Check Details: Ensure your ID, phone, and banking info are correct.
• Stay Updated: Monitor your status weekly.
• Appeal Promptly: Don’t delay if declined.
• Avoid Scams: Use only official SASSA channels. Never share OTPs.

Contact SASSA for Help

Need assistance? Reach out:

• Hotline: 0800 60 1011 (weekdays).
• WhatsApp: 082 046 8553.
• Website: srd.sassa.gov.za.
• SASSA Offices: Visit for in-person support.

The SRD R370 Grant is a critical support for South Africa’s unemployed, but strict rules and system issues can complicate access. By following these steps and staying proactive, you can navigate the process successfully. Apply today and secure the help you need.