SASSA SRD R370 Grant (Previously R350) – Complete Guide

The Social Relief of Distress Grant (SRD Grant) is a financial assistance program from the South African government for its citizens who are facing financial difficulties, unable to fulfill the most basic needs of their families and needing temporary assistance. It is also know as SASSA Unemployment Grant and SRD R350 Grant.

SASSA SRD R350 Grant Application

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is the government agency responsible for the administration of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. The Social Relief of Distress grant is administered with the concurrence of the Ministry of Finance, in accordance with section 32 of the Social Assistance Act of 2004, for smooth and proper financial management.

In this article we will explain the complete information and application process for the SASSA SRD grant. We will also guide you about the qualification criteria and what to do if your application is rejected.

Important Note: The Grant name R350 used throughout article is referred to SASSA Social Relief of Distress Grant. It was popular with name R350 but currently it is increased to R370.

Eligibility Criteria For The SASSA SRD Grant

Before applying for the SRD grant, you first need to understand its eligibility criteria to verify if you qualify for the grant. The criteria are the following:

  • You must be either one of them:
  • A South African citizen.
  • A recognized Refugee in South Africa.
  • An Asylum Seeker in South Africa having a valid section 22 permit or visa. 
  • A South African resident who holds a special permit from one of the following three dispensations:
  • Lesotho Exemption Permit Dispensation
  • Special Angolan Dispensation
  • Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Dispensation
  • You must be living in South Africa.
  • Your age must be between 18 to 60 years.
  • Your monthly earnings must be equal to or less than R624 to pass the means test.
  • You must not be getting any other type of government social grant.
  • You must not have sufficient resources to support your basic needs.
  • You must be unemployed and have no any other source of income.
  • You must not have sufficient assets or investments to qualify for the R370 grant.
  • You must not be a contributor or recipient of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).
  • You must not be a recipient of a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
  • You must not unreasonably refuse any employment or educational offer.
  • You must not be living in a state-funded station.

Essential Information & Documents Required to Apply for SRD R350 Grant

After confirming your eligibility for the SASSA SRD grant, you can apply by providing the required information and documents (original or certified copies) to SASSA.

You will need to acknowledge that you have read and agreed to the terms and conditions of the Declaration and Consent Documents before submitting the application. The required documents are the following:

  • If you are a South African citizen, you must provide your original 13-digit bar-coded South African ID (identity document). If you are an asylum seeker, refugee, or special permit holder, you must provide your passport number or special permit number.
  • Your full name, surname, date of birth and gender as they are stated on your ID, passport, or permit.
  • Your phone number (It should be registered on your name. SASSA will also use this phone number to contact you regarding your status and updates).
  • Proof of your residential address. Any document or utility bill that confirms your current address.
  • A most recent bank statement that shows your income and spending.
  • If you were previously employed, proof of your unemployment status, such as a discharge certificate from your previous employer.
  • Any relevant documents that reflect your current financial situation, like invoices, payslips, or proof of any additional income sources.

Please gather all your required documents before applying for the SASSA SRD grant and make sure that they are up to date. The document requirements may also change, so it is recommended to check the updated requirements from the SASSA official website.

Procedure to Apply for the SASSA SRD R350 Grant

You should have a laptop, computer, or a mobile phone with an active internet connection to apply for the SRD R350 grant. Please follow the below steps to submit your application correctly:

SASSA SRD R350 Grant Application Process

Step 1: Choosing the Application Channel

You can apply via WhatsApp, the SASSA chatbot, or the SASSA official website for the SRD grant. You must submit your application only once by using only one method. The multiple submission will not speed up your application process.

Apply Online Through the SASSA SRD Website:

  1. Visit the SASSA official website from the link https://srd.sassa.gov.za/said.
  2. Navigate to the “How do I apply for this SRD Grant” section and click the “click here to apply online” button. 
  3. Provide your mobile number which is registered on your name and currently active. 
  4. Click on the “Send SMS” button. 
  5. The OTP code will be sent to your provided phone number.
  6. Enter that code on the website and click “Verify Pin”.
  7. Continue to the below step 2.

Apply Through WhatsApp:

  1. Save the SRD WhatsApp number 082 046 8553 in your contact.
  2. Send a message to the saved WhatsApp number.
  3. Provide the personal information asked in the chat.
  4. You will receive the OPT code, a reference number, and the SRD website link in chat.
  5. Click on the link, provide the OTP and click verify.
  6. Provide your ID number and Surname
  7. Confirm your details are the same as given on WhatsApp chat.
  8. Continue from the below step 2.

Apply Through the SASSA Chatbot:

  1. Navigate to the SASSA website in your browser.
  2. Click on the “SRD R350 Grant Assistance” chatbot (located on the right side of the website page).
  3. Provide your ID number and mobile number in chat.
  4. You will be provided the options in chat. Select “I want to apply for SRD R350 grant” from the options.
  5. You will be provided with the link to the SRD website in chat.
  6. Click on the provided link and continue from the below step 2.

Step 2: Agree to the Terms & Conditions

Now, you will be asked to read and agree to the terms and conditions of consent and declaration. Also, read and agree to the terms of You and Your Special COVID-19 SRD Grant document. Understand and agree to them and then move to the next step.

Step 3: Fill Out Your Personal Information

Now fill out your details including:

  • Your Identity Document (ID) Number
  • Your Full Name and Surname (As they are stated on your ID document)
  • Your Gender
  • Your Residential Address
  • Your contact details (including your phone number and email)
  • Your employment and financial information
  • Any other supported documents to prove your eligibility

Please keep in mind that SASSA can also ask you for further information.

Step 4: Select Your Preferred Payment Method (Banking Details)

There is a possibility that you may have applied for the SRD grant in the past, or you may be applying for the first time. So, this step is gonna little different for both scenarios. Please follow the below steps accordingly:

For New Applicants:

If you are applying for the first time for SRD grant, you will be asked to select one from the following two payment methods:

  1. Cash Send
  2. Bank Account

Bank Account:

If you are going to use a bank account as your payment method, you need to provide the following banking details:

  • Bank Name
  • Account Number
  • Branch Name
  • Account Type
  • Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions
  • Submit the form

The bank account should be in your name, as SASSA can’t pay your payments to the other person’s bank account.

Cash Send:

To use Cash Send as your payment method:

  • Provide your mobile number (which you have already provided in previous steps).
  • Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
  • Submit the details.

For Existing Applicants:

If you have applied for the SRD grant in the past and your payment method was a bank account, then follow the steps:

  • Confirm your existing bank account details.
  • Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
  • submit the form.

If your previous payment method was cash send method, but you want to change it to a bank account method, then provide the following banking details:

  • Bank Name
  • Account Number
  • Branch Name
  • Account Type
  • Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions
  • Submit the form

Please keep in mind that the bank account you are providing should be in your name, as SASSA can’t pay your payments to the other person’s bank account.

Step 5: Confirmation Message

Now, you will receive an SMS on your provided mobile number confirming your banking details. Congratulations, this confirmation means that your SASSA SRD R350 application is active now.

Step 6: SASSA Verification Process

The process from your side is completed now and the application is transferred to SASSA. Now, they will verify and validate all your information from the government databases:

  • Verify your ID number, name, surname, and other personal details from the database of the Department of Home Affairs.
  • Verify your employment and financial information from approved databases including SARS, UIF, and NSFAS.
  • Conduct the fraud risk assessment with the fraud prevention partners that includes checking your mobile number and ID number against the permitted databases.

Once SASSA completes the verification process, they will approve or decline your SRD grant application with a valid reason. Hence, your application process cycle is completed.

How To Apply For SRD Grant Via SMS Method

If you don’t have an internet connection, then you can also apply via mobile SMS method. Dial the USSD code *134*7737# and follow the instructions in the video below:

How much is the SASSA SRD Grant?

The current amount for the SASSA SRD grant is R370 per month, previously it was R350. This increase was implemented for the first time in April 2024, starting from the day it was introduced.

Processing Time for the Application of the SASSA SRD Grant

The processing time for the SASSA SRD R350 grant application is between 60 to 90 days. It may vary depending on the amount of applications they are receiving. After your application is processed and your grant is approved, you will be paid as of the date you apply. If your application was declined, SASSA will provide you with a letter explaining why your application was denied and how to request an appeal.

SASSA R350 Grant Status Check

After the submission of your application, you can track the progress of your application through a status check to see if it is approved or declined or what is the current status of your application. Once your application is approved, you need to check the status of your upcoming grant payments and their dates regularly to keep yourself updated. SASSA SRD grant status check can be done through the following methods:

SASSA Website

Through SASSA Official Website by Clicking Here

SASSA Website

Through the Moya APP Using Data Free Method

SASSA Website

Through SMS To SASSA Number 082-046-8553

SASSA Website

Through SASSA WhatsApp 082-046-8553

SASSA Website

Contacting on SASSA Toll-Free No. 0800-601011

Reapplication Process for SRD R350 Grant Application

The SASSA reapplication process is similar to the initial application submission. This process is for the applicants who were previously eligible for the SRD grant but missed their initial application duration or whose grant period expired. The application submission should be made on the SASSA website using the link srd.sassa.gov.za. You will have to provide the same information that you provided in your first SRD grant application which includes:

  • Your name
  • Contact details
  • ID Number
  • Bank Account Details

SASSA will review your application once again to make a decision. If your application is approved, you will start receiving payments else you will be notified if the application is declined.

How to Reconsider Your SRD Grant Application

If your initial SRD grant application is declined, the reconsideration process is a way to request the SASSA to review your application for the second time. You have the right to apply for reconsideration if you believe that your application was declined incorrectly. Before applying, you need to review your personal information and other details to ensure they are correct. You can apply within 30 days after your application rejection and it can be used only once.

You can apply for reconsideration by following two ways:

SASSA Website

Apply through SASSA Official Website by
Clicking Here

SASSA Website

Contact SASSA on the Toll-Free Number
0800-60-10-11

Lodge an Appeal for Your SASSA SRD R350 Grant

If the reconsideration request is also denied, but you still disagree with the decision of SASSA, you have the right to appeal the decision of your SASSA SRD grant to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). You must appeal within 90 days of being notified by providing the following details:

  • Your name
  • Contact details
  • SASSA reference number
  • The reason why you believe that you are eligible for the grant but your application was declined unfairly
  • Any evidence that supports your appeal

All the details are submitted to ITSAA through the link srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals/appeal. If ITSAA agrees with you, they will overturn the decision of SASSA, and you will start receiving the SRD grant payments else you will be notified if your appeal is declined.

Understanding the SRD Grant Payment Process

Once your SRD grant is approved, you will be paid from the date you applied. SASSA releases the payment schedule every month as they don’t have any fixed dates. Check the upcoming SASSA payment dates.

SASSA will pay you the grant payments through the following two methods (You need to opt for one):

  • Direct deposit in your bank account or Postbank account. The banks may charge you for the service fee.
  • You can withdraw your grant payment in cash at SASSA-partnered retail outlets such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers, Usave, and Spar.

NOTE: Post offices used to be cash collection points for the SASSA R350 grant, but they are no longer.

If you are unable to collect grants yourself due to being too old, you can nominate someone to collect payments on your behalf.

How to Cancel your SRD R350 Grant Application

If your financial condition improves and you want to cancel your application, You can cancel it before it has been approved. If your application has already been approved, you will need to appeal the decision to cancel your application.

Before canceling your application, first check your application status from the SASSA website, to see if your grant is inactive. If it is inactive, then there is no need to cancel your application. But if it is active, then you need to cancel your application by using the following method:

  • Proceed to the SRD website via this link.
  • Enter your ID card number and phone number and click the button “send pin”.
  • You will receive a 6-digit OTP code on your mobile number. Provide this number on the website and click the button “verify pin”.
  • You will be redirected to another page. Click on the “cancel my grant” button here.
  • A prompt will be shown to confirm that you want to cancel your application. Click “yes” and your application cancellation request will be initiated.

How To Reinstate Your Canceled SRD R350 Grant Application

Reinstating a canceled application is the process of requesting the reactivation of your previously canceled application. There might be a situation when you cancel your R350 SRD grant application due to a change in your employment or financial status by realizing that you do not need the grant longer. But later, the circumstances change, or you lose your source of income and need to reinstate your canceled application.

In these scenarios, you can reinstate your SASSA application by the following method:

  • Go to the SRD website via this link.
  • Enter your ID card number and phone number and click the button “send pin”.
  • You will receive a 6-digit OTP code on your mobile number. Provide this number on the website and click the button “verify pin”.
  • Read and Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
  • Click on the “reinstate my grant” button.
  • A prompt will be shown to confirm that you want to reinitiate your cancelled application. Click “yes” and your application reinstatement request will be initiated.

Updating Your SRD Grant Contact Details

You need to update your contact details if they are changed to ensure that you receive your grant payments without any interruption.

You can update your contact details by the following method:

  • Visit the SRD website through this link: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/contact.
  • Provide your ID number and the Application ID that SASSA issued to you when you applied or reapplied for the grant.
  • Now provide your new contact details.
  • Click ”submit”.

Please keep in mind that the changes will appear within 24 hours after the update.

How to Change Your SRD Grant Banking Details

The option to update banking details is only available to registered SASSA SRD 350 grant beneficiaries. The process to update the banking details differs for African Nationality Holders and Asylum Seekers/Special Permit Holders. You have to visit the website through the link, head over to the bottom and confirm your nationality:

For South African ID Holders

Click the “click here to proceed” button. You will be redirected to another page. Go to the tab “How do I change my banking details” and provide your ID number. An SMS will be sent to your registered mobile number with a secured unique link. Click on the link and follow the instructions carefully to update your banking details.

For Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders

Click the “click here to proceed” button. After you are redirected to another page, go to the tab “Lookup Payment ID to collect payment at Pick ‘n Pay”. Provide your file number, passport number and cell phone number you used for registration. If your details are correct, you will be provided further instructions to update the details.

You need to provide your bank account registered on your name, as SASSA cannot pay your grant in another person’s bank account. The same goes for the mobile number, and it should also be registered on your name. The new bank details will be only used for future payments after the verification.

Update SASSA SRD R350 Grant Banking Details

Updating Name and Surname For SRD Grant

SASSA allows you to update your name and surname once a month. You can only request updates if your name is incorrect on your ID document. If there are other reasons, such as marriage, divorce or any other reasons, then you need to update your ID document first.

Before updating, please make sure that your name and surname are the same as it appears on your Smart ID Card or South African green ID Document. Here are the steps to request an update for your name and surname:

  • Go to the SASSA website through the link https://srd.sassa.gov.za/, and scroll to the bottom of the page.
  • Click the “click here to proceed” button in the “South African ID Holders” section.
  • After redirection to another page, go to the “Request Names and Surname Update” tab.
  • Provide your ID Number, Name, and Surname and click the “submit” button.

SASSA will update your name and surname on their system after verification from the Department of Home Affairs. You will receive an SMS notification once your update is completed or if they need any additional details.

Extension of SRD R350 Grant

The SRD R350 grant was initially introduced on May 16, 2020 as a temporary measure to help the South Africans who were struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was supposed to be paid for six months, but the government extended it multiple times.

According to the last update, the government is extended it until March 2025. However, there is still a chance that the government may extend it further.

New Policy for Period of Social Relief of Distress

According to the new policy, Social Relief of Distress will be paid monthly until you are eligible, you don’t need to reapply after every 3 months further. As according to the old policy, you had to reapply after three month periods to continue receiving the SRD payments, but that is no longer needed.

This article covered the complete information about SRD R350 grant and if you still have any questions, you can read the Frequently Asked Questions or can contact SASSA Directly. Please check out our SASSA blog regularly to keep yourself updated about SASSA grants, payments and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

The SASSA SRD R350 Grant, also known as the Social Relief of Distress Grant, is a government program that provides financial assistance to South African citizens who are unemployed and struggling to meet their basic needs.

The SRD Grant aims to assist individuals and families in need by providing monthly financial support, helping them overcome financial challenges and fulfill essential requirements during challenging times.

The SRD R350 Grant was first introduced in May 2020 as a temporary measure to help South Africans struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been extended several times and is currently scheduled to last until March 2024. However, the government may extend it further.

The SASSA SRD Grant provides financial assistance of R350 per month to eligible recipients.

To be eligible for the SRD Grant, you must meet specific criteria, including being a South African citizen or resident, aged between 18 to 60 years, and having a monthly income equal to or less than R624. Additionally, you must not be receiving other government social grants, be unemployed, and lack sufficient resources to support basic needs.

To apply for the SRD Grant, you will need essential documents, including your South African ID or relevant permits, proof of residence, recent bank statements, and documents reflecting your financial situation. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies.

To apply for the SRD Grant, you can use various channels, including the SASSA SRD website, WhatsApp, or the SASSA chatbot. Choose one method and follow the provided steps to complete your application accurately.

The processing time for the SASSA SRD R350 grant application typically ranges between 60 to 90 days. This duration may vary depending on the volume of applications received.

You can check the status of your SRD Grant application through various methods, including online via the official SASSA website, using the Moya App, through SMS, WhatsApp, or by calling the SASSA call center on their toll-free number 0800 601 011.

If you were previously eligible for the SRD Grant but missed the initial application or if your grant period expired, you can reapply through the SASSA website. Provide the necessary information, including your name, contact details, ID number, and bank account details.

If your SRD Grant application is declined and you believe the decision was unfair, you can appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) within 90 days of notification. Provide relevant details and evidence to support your appeal.

Once your SRD Grant is approved, you will receive payments from the date you applied. SASSA pays the grant either through direct deposit into your bank account or as a cash withdrawal at partnered retail outlets.

If your financial situation improves and you wish to cancel your SRD Grant application, you can do so via the SRD website. Follow the provided steps in this article to initiate the cancellation process.

If you previously canceled your SRD Grant application but your circumstances changed, then you can request reactivation through the SRD website. Follow the steps mentioned in this article to initiate the reinstatement process.

To update your contact details for the SRD Grant, visit the SRD website and provide your ID number and application ID. Input your new contact details and submit the form on the website. The changes will be made after SASSA verifies your new contact details.

Yes, you can update your banking details for the SRD Grant. Visit the SRD website and follow the provided steps to update your banking information to ensure a smooth payment process.

If your name and surname need updating for the SRD Grant, visit the SASSA website and follow the steps under the “Request Names and Surname Update” tab to initiate the update process.

Contact SASSA

Should you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to SASSA through the following channels:

Similar Posts

How to Reinstate Your Cancelled SASSA SRD Grant Application

How to Reinstate Your SASSA Grant After Cancellation – Complete Guide

ByJayshawn Jamie

Have you cancelled your SASSA grant and now want to reinstate it? You probably cancelled your grant as you got the job, or your financial circumstances improved, and you no longer needed it. Well, no worries, as SASSA always cares for you in need, and they have a very simple and easy online process to…

What Happens When You Don't Claim Your Grant Money?

What Happens When You Don’t Claim Your Grant Money?

ByJayshawn Jamie

Have you ever wondered what happens if you fail to collect your SASSA grant payment? The consequences are more serious than you think. If you do not collect your grant money for three consecutive months, SASSA suspends your account, eventually leading to the cancellation of your grant. After the initial suspension, SASSA gives you three…

SASSA Referred Status

SASSA Referred Status: Meaning, Reasons & How to Solve

ByJayshawn Jamie

Are you worried about your SASSA application being stuck in “referred” status? If yes, you will find the solution in this article today. The SASSA referred status means that your application is undergoing additional review to ensure eligibility and prevent fraud. While it might seem worrying, understanding the reasons behind your “referred” status and taking…

All SASSA Forms & eForms in PDF Format - Download All Documents Easily

All SASSA Forms & eForms in PDF Format – Download All Documents Easily

ByJayshawn Jamie

SASSA forms are required to submit a grant application. In this article we will provide a complete list of forms, eForms and documents needed for SASSA applications along with their download link. You can simply download, print, fill it out, and submit it to SASSA for your relevant grant application. These forms include affidavits, bank…

94 Comments

  3. Hello! I am 46 years woman! I have never been employed in the past 10 years, since from my first 350 grant application in 2021 I only received my grant for only 5 months which are December 2022,January 2023,February 2023, October 2023 and November 2023 then all the months it always says Declined, reason being, unidentified source of income, verification failed and only this month (March) it say null, I have already made call to sassa, I lodge several appeal but still nothing change, I even change my banking details, updated my information, no solution. PLEASE HELP

    Reply

  4. Hi there, my son is on a disability grant, mental health along with a few other health issues. He was examined by the
    SASSA Dr / Specialist. and was granted disability. His 14 years old. I would like to ask you, when he turns 18 years old, does he need to go and reapply for himself and do all examinations over ect, or does everything stay as is.and carry on as normal. Thank you for your help and kindness. Regards.

    Reply

  5. I’ve been trying to change my sons phone number as his phone was stolen and he cannot get the son back as he tried to port the number but was told it cannot be done. The website just keep saying failed when j tried to change it….

    Then also his approved for January with no date but his banking account has been closed as he didn’t receive any srd grant since April 2023. I called.sassa and was told they will let me know when it an be change
    . Got no help.from them at all.

    Reply

    1. Hi Jade,

      I’m sorry to hear about your son’s situation. Did the SASSA representative provide any specific date when they will allow you to update your phone number?

      Reply

    2. hi jayswan KPhalane ive been trying ever since to change my cell number and changing method of payment it keeps say faild ive sent emails tried the sassa toll-free number its either thay say that i must wait for verification than they wil get back to me im waiting for almost 1 yaer7 but still no reply im African but speak most of the time english so when i speaking over the phone they dont believe its me they think im calling for some1else so can you please help coz i dnt know wat else to do

      Reply

        1. I try so many times to apply 350 for my daughter it’s keep telling that I’d number already use so what must I do and because is the first time apply

          Reply

  9. hi,can you get the disability grant and srd grant at the same time?for which grants can you get the srd grant as well?thanks.

    Reply

  10. When applying for the R350 grant it has been detected that someone has already used my ID to apply for the grant. I phoned the SASSA Toll Free number to report the incident and was told they would escalate the matter. What worries me is no reference number was provided to me and what steps should be taken in this matter where someone has criminally used my ID number claiming the grant? Each day that goes by I am without a grant payment. What process will SASSA follow to resolve this matter and how long?

    Reply

  11. I don’t have pay date from 2022 if I checked the status says null y because last year I provided my bank details and so December says decline and January plz help

    Reply

    1. Hi Khakalethu,

      You should apply if you are fulfilling the eligbility criteria before applying. That would be a good addition in your life to cover your basic needs.

      Reply

      1. Hi Mahlomola,

        Please assure that you are providing the correct phone number and application ID. If it still says failed, then please contact SASSA helpline to solve the issue.

        Reply

  24. When I apply and put my ID number then put my number it says invaild and when I try to apply back it says already applied but I have never applied it’s my first time

    Reply

    1. Hi Lungile,

      There is a possibility that someone applied using your ID Number and used their own phone number. Please contact SASSA directly at 0800 60 10 11 to know if someone else is taking your grant money.

      Reply

  27. I have a problem with my banking details please help and I’ve been tried but it is saying wait for 24 ours

    Reply

    1. Hi Nonsikelelo,

      If you have recently updated your bank details then wait for atleast 24 hours. The changes takes time as SASSA verify your account before approving.

      Reply

    1. Hi Mase,

      You have to change your phone number as soon as possible to get your grant back. Please visit the change SASSA phone number for the step-by-step guidance on how to get your application ID and change your phone number.

      Reply

    1. Hi Tsakani,

      Please apply for the R350 grant by following the instruction on this article. Hopefully you will get it.

      Thank you!

      Reply

  38. Guys…it’s been a while now since I’ve been applying for R350 but with no luck

    Please help me

    How do we apply and what app do we use

    Reply

    1. Hi Keletso,

      Did you file an appeal for your SRD Grant? If you are eligibile but your grant still not approved, then appeal can help.

      Reply

  40. Hi it’s me Ephraim Machabela I need to know about my sassa R350 coz it’s just approved by they don’t give m data

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *