10 Quick Facts to Know About the Social Relief of Distress Grant

The Social Relief of Distress Grant came into being when South Africans faced the toughest days of the pandemic. Work was scarce, businesses were closing, and families were left without income.

The grant became an immediate way to put something back in people’s pockets, however small. Instead of being phased out, it has stayed on because financial hardship has continued for many households.

Every month, thousands still receive this payment through SASSA. It helps them hold on while waiting for permanent opportunities. Here are 10 facts about the SRD Grant that you should know before you apply.

What to Know About the Social Relief of Distress Grant Before You Apply

1. Targeted Financial Aid

The Social Relief of Distress Grant is designed for South African citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and special permit holders who are between the ages of 18 and 60. Its primary purpose is to provide a temporary safety net for those with no other means of financial support.

2. Strict Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must be unemployed and not receiving any other social grants, such as a child support grant, disability grant, or old age pension. Applicants must also not be receiving unemployment insurance benefits (UIF) or a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

3. There is an Income Threshold for the Social Relief of Distress Grant

A key eligibility requirement is that an applicant’s monthly income must not exceed a specific threshold, which is currently R620. This is verified through a monthly “means test” conducted by SASSA to ensure the grant goes to those most in need.

4. Electronic Application Process

The application process is entirely electronic, with no paper-based applications accepted. This is a measure to streamline the process and handle the large volume of applications efficiently. Applications can be submitted online via the SASSA website, WhatsApp, or USSD code.

5. The Social Relief of Distress Grant Does Not Cover Backpay

Payments for the Social Relief of Distress Grant are not backdated. An approved applicant will receive the grant for the month in which their application is made and approved, not for any preceding months.

6. Monthly Reassessment

Unlike other social grants, the Social Relief of Distress Grant is not a long-term commitment. SASSA reassesses each beneficiary’s eligibility every month to determine if they still meet all the qualifying criteria, as a person’s financial circumstances can change.

7. Multiple Payment Channels

Beneficiaries can receive their payments through various channels, including a personal bank account, a Postbank account, or a cash send option. SASSA will only request banking details once an application has been approved, and applicants are cautioned against providing this information to anyone else.

8. Varying Grant Amount

The value of the grant has changed over time. While it was initially R350, it was increased to R370 in 2023.

9. Combating Fraud

SASSA has implemented a robust verification system to combat fraud and ensure the grant reaches legitimate beneficiaries. This involves verifying an applicant’s identity with the Department of Home Affairs and cross-referencing their details with other databases, such as the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

10. Temporary Relief, Not a Permanent Solution

The Social Relief of Distress Grant is explicitly a form of temporary social relief. It is not intended to be a permanent source of income but rather a short-term intervention to assist individuals who are in dire financial need and cannot meet their basic needs.

Unlike most grants that follow a clear payday, the SRD payment is rolled out later in the month. There is no single date for everyone, so each beneficiary receives their money separately.

The safest step is to track your payment date through the SASSA SRD site, srd.sassa.gov.za. That way, you stay on top of what is happening rather than waiting blindly. This grant might not feel as predictable, but once you understand the system, it becomes easier to manage.

Now that you understand the most important details, you are better equipped to move forward and apply online if you feel the SRD grant could provide valuable assistance.

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