SASSA Increases SRD Grant to R400: The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced an increase in the Social Distress Relief (SRD) Grant, which will now see beneficiaries receive R400 every month. This increase is for those who are facing economic difficulties and need additional financial support.
In this article, we will learn who is eligible for the SRD R400 Grant, what is the application process, what the new payment schedule will be like and other important details related to it.
Eligibility for SRD R400 Grant
There are certain eligibility criteria set by SASSA to receive this grant. If you want to avail of this scheme, you must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship and Residency
- The applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident or recognized refugee.
- The applicant must be residing in South Africa at the time of application.
- Income and Employment Status
- The applicant’s monthly income must be less than R624.
- The applicant must be unemployed and not receiving any other government financial assistance (such as NSFAS, UIF or other SASSA grants).
- Age Limit
- The person applying must be at least 18 years of age.
- The person applying must be at least 18 years of age.
- Banking and Contact Information
- The applicant must have a valid bank account to which the payment can be sent directly.
- An active mobile number and email address must be provided so as to receive relevant information from SASSA.
How to Apply for the SRD R400 Grant?

SASSA has simplified the application of this grant, which can be completed online, via WhatsApp or at the nearest SASSA office. You can easily apply by following the steps below:
- Prepare the Required Documents
- South African Identity Card (ID) or Refugee Permit.
- Bank Account Details (for Direct Payment).
- Proof of Income (if applicable).
- A valid mobile number for verification.
- Apply Online
- Visit the official website of SASSA.
- Click on the “Apply for SRD” option and fill in the required information.
- Upload the required documents and submit the form.
- You will receive a confirmation SMS after you apply successfully.
- Apply via WhatsApp
- Send a WhatsApp message from your mobile to the number 082 046 8553.
- Follow the instructions given and provide the required information.
- Apply at a SASSA office
- Visit your nearest SASSA Service Centre.
- Fill in the application form along with the required documents.
After submitting the form you will be provided with a reference number by which you can track the status of your application.
New Payment Schedule for SRD R400 Grant
Beneficiaries will now be paid with respect to the last digits of their Identification Number (ID Number). SASSA has released a payment update that involves SRD R400 Grant payments.
ID Number Last Digit | Payment Date (March 2025) |
---|---|
0 & 1 | 25 March 2025 |
2 & 3 | 26 March 2025 |
4 & 5 | 27 March 2025 |
6 & 7 | 28 March 2025 |
8 & 9 | 29 March 2025 |
Note: Payments will be deposited directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts. However, beneficiaries who do not currently own a bank account can get their payments through the designated payment centers, which include the following: Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, and Checkers.
Conclusion
Increasing the SRD grant to R400 is a historic relief for those suffering under the burden of economic hardships. This will serve, in particular, as additional cushioning for the underemployed, unemployed citizens, and those who find their income falling below a minimum standard.
If you qualify for the grant, make your application now and keep checking the dates of payment in order to get proper contribution when it comes. Information or problems can be sorted out at SASSA’s official website or by calling the helpline number.
So many thousands of South Africans are going to benefit from this movement introduced by SASSA-apply soonest!
FAQs On SASSA Increases SRD Grant to R400
Q. Can I apply if I am not unemployed but my income is less than R624?
A. Yes, if your monthly income is less than R624 and you are not receiving benefits of any other government assistance scheme, you can apply.
Q. What can I do if my application is rejected?
A. You can request a reconsideration on the SASSA website. This will allow you to review the status of your rejected application and make the necessary corrections.
Q. Can I apply for another member of my family?
A. No, each person must apply for themselves and provide their personal information.