SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed: On January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court delivered a landmark judgment, declaring some of the rules related to the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant as unconstitutional and invalid. The decision has paved the way for increasing the amount of the SRD grant, changing the eligibility criteria and making the application process more convenient. This decision has brought relief to millions of unemployed and financially vulnerable South Africans who depend on this assistance. Let’s know in detail what changes this decision will bring and what beneficiaries should do now.
What changes will happen in the SRD grant?
- Increase in grant amount
- The court has deemed the current amount of the SRD grant (R370 per month) as inadequate and directed the government to increase it. It is estimated that it could range from R420 to R500 per month, but the exact amount will be announced by May 2025.
- Income threshold will be increased
- Currently the maximum monthly income to be eligible for the SRD grant is set at R624, but the court has ordered it to be increased so that more people can take advantage of this assistance.
- Offline application facility
- Until now, only online applications were allowed for the SRD grant, due to which many needy people were unable to apply due to lack of internet access. The court has also directed them to provide an offline application facility in SASSA offices.
- New definition of income
- Previously, if a person received a one-time assistance amount (such as help from family or a small gift), it was considered income and were disqualified for the SRD grant. The court has changed this rule, so more people will now be eligible for this assistance.
What should beneficiaries do now?
- ✔ Keep an eye on the official website of SASSA and keep checking for updates.
- ✔ If you haven’t applied yet, ensure your eligibility as soon as possible.
- ✔ Be prepared to apply offline at SASSA offices.
- ✔ Be aware of the increased grant amount and new eligibility criteria that will apply after May 2025.
Important information about the SRD grant
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Payment Amount | R370 per month (previously R350) |
| Proposed Increase | More than R370, estimated between R420-R500 |
| Minimum Income Threshold | R624 per month (likely to increase) |
| Application Process | – Currently: Online applications only – New Rule: In-person applications at SASSA offices will also be accepted |
| Court Deadline | The government must implement changes by May 2025 |
| Official Source | SASSA Official Website |
Who is eligible for the SRD grant?
- ✔ Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee.
- ✔ Must be unemployed and have no other income (eligibility may increase after the new income limits come into effect).
- ✔ Must not be receiving any other government assistance, such as UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (except the child support grant).
- ✔ Must be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- ✔ Must be living in South Africa.
How to get the SRD grant?
Current application process (before the change)
- ✅ Apply online only: Apply on SASSA’s official website or the SRD portal.
- ✅ Enter ID and mobile number: South African ID number and registered mobile number will be mandatory.
- ✅ Provide bank details: SASSA will check the bank account to verify your income status.
New application process (after the change)
- ✅ Offline application will start: Now people will be able to apply by visiting SASSA offices.
- ✅ Small lump sum deposits will not be considered income: Previously, if someone received support money from family, it was counted as income, but now it will not.
- ✅ New income criteria will apply: More people will be eligible due to the increase in the income limit.
When will the SRD grant increase?
The government has been directed to implement all these changes by May 2025. This means that the new grant amount could be applicable from June 2025, but this will depend on the government’s announcement. Therefore, beneficiaries should keep an eye on SASSA’s website and official updates.
Conclusion
This historic decision regarding the SRD grant is a relief for millions of South Africans. Increasing the grant amount, improving eligibility criteria and simplifying the application process will allow more people to benefit from this assistance. However, the government has been instructed to implement these changes by May 2025, so all beneficiaries should keep an eye on updates and wait for official announcements from SASSA.
If you are eligible for the SRD grant, keep your information updated, understand the application process, and follow SASSA’s new guidelines.
FAQs
Q. When will the SASSA SRD grant increase take effect?
A. The government has until May 2025 to implement changes, with the increase expected by mid-2025.
Q. How much will the SRD grant increase?
A. The exact amount is not confirmed, but estimates suggest it could rise to between R420 and R500 per month.
Q. Can I apply for the SRD grant in person?
A. Yes, the court ruling mandates that SASSA must allow in-person applications at its offices.
Q. What is the new income threshold for SRD grant eligibility?
A. Currently, it’s R624 per month, but it is expected to increase based on the court ruling.
Q. Where can I check for official SASSA updates?
A. You can visit the SASSA official website for the latest information.