Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant in South Africa (2025): A Lifeline for the Unemployed

In South Africa, high unemployment and economic instability make it difficult for many people to meet their basic needs. To assist citizens who are going through financial hardship, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers a temporary financial relief programme known as the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant.

This article explains everything you need to know about the SRD Grant in 2025, including who qualifies, how much is paid, how to apply, and how to check your status — all in a clear, beginner-friendly format.

What Is the SRD Grant?

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant is a temporary grant of R370 per month aimed at assisting unemployed South African adults aged 18 to 59 who are not receiving any other form of income or social grant.

This grant was first introduced in May 2020 as part of the government’s COVID-19 relief measures and has since been extended due to ongoing high levels of unemployment and poverty.

Key Features of the SRD Grant

Amount: R370 per month (as of June 2025)
Duration: Short-term (must reapply periodically)
Target group: Unemployed adults aged 18–59
Payment method: Bank transfer, Postbank account, or mobile money
Managed by: South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)

Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant?

To qualify for the SRD Grant in 2025, applicants must meet all the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee registered with Home Affairs
Be between 18 and 59 years old
Unemployed
Not receiving any of the following:
- Social grants (e.g., Child Support Grant, Older Person’s Grant)
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) payments
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) support
Not residing in a government-funded institution (e.g., prison or care facility)
Must not earn more than R624 per month (as per the means test)

Tip: If you have a small amount of money in your account (e.g., a gift or family support), it should not exceed the income threshold for that month.

How Much Is the SRD Grant in 2025?

The grant currently pays:

R370 per month

Although the amount may seem small, it helps millions of South Africans to buy food, pay for transport, and meet basic needs while looking for employment.

The payment is made once a month, and beneficiaries can check their payment date online.

How to Apply for the SRD Grant

Applications for the SRD Grant are done online only. There is no need to visit a SASSA office.

Apply Online in 5 Easy Steps:

Go to the official SRD website:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za
Scroll down to the “How do I apply for this SRD Grant” section.
Select your ID type (South African ID, Asylum Seeker, or Special Permit holder).
Provide the required details:
- ID number
- Name and surname (as registered with Home Affairs)
- Contact number
- Banking details
Agree to the terms and conditions and submit.

You will receive a confirmation SMS with your application reference number.

How Does the Means Test Work?

SASSA uses a means test to check whether you are financially eligible. It checks your bank account activity to ensure your income is less than R624 per month.

If you receive more than this amount in a month, your application for that month will be declined.

Do You Need to Reapply Each Month?

No, you don’t have to reapply monthly, but you must confirm your eligibility each month. SASSA checks your banking details every month, and if you meet the requirements, you will be paid.

How to Check Your SRD Grant Status

To check the status of your application, use the official website:

SRD Grant Status Check
https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status

You will need:

Your South African ID number
The cellphone number you used to apply

The portal will show your approval status, payment dates, or if your application was declined for that month.

How Will You Get Paid?

Once approved, you can choose one of the following payment methods:

Bank account – Most preferred and secure method
Postbank (SASSA Gold Card)
Retailers with cash send options (Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, Shoprite)

Always keep your cellphone number active, as you will receive payment notifications and status updates via SMS.

What If Your Application Is Declined?

If SASSA declines your application, it will usually be for one of the following reasons:

Income detected above R624
Receiving another government grant
Receiving UIF or NSFAS support
Identity mismatch with Home Affairs

How to Appeal:

If you believe your application was unfairly declined, you can submit an appeal online:

Lodging an Appeal
https://srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals

You must submit the appeal within 30 days of receiving the decline notice. Each month must be appealed separately.

Important Documents You’ll Need

During application or appeals, keep the following ready:

South African ID or special permit
Valid cellphone number
Proof of banking details
Proof of refugee/asylum status (if applicable)

Where to Get Help

If you need assistance with your SRD Grant application:

SASSA Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free)
WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
Email: srd@sassa.gov.za
Website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM

Tips for a Successful SRD Grant Application

Use a bank account registered in your name.
Make sure your ID and contact number match Home Affairs records.
Don’t apply multiple times – one application is enough.
Reconfirm your application status monthly.
Appeal quickly if declined unfairly.

Why the SRD Grant Matters

The SRD Grant has helped millions of South Africans during hard times. It has become a lifeline for unemployed adults who are not eligible for other forms of support. While R370 is not a large amount, it is often the difference between hunger and survival for many families.

Final Thoughts

If you are unemployed and aged between 18 and 59 with no form of income, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant could provide critical support. It’s easy to apply online, and once approved, you’ll receive R370 per month to help cover your basic needs.

Don’t wait. Apply now or help someone who needs it. Every bit of assistance matters when you’re facing tough times.

Apply here today:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za

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