SRD Grant Payments: South Africa’s Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant just got a major update—and it’s not just about a few extra rands. Following a landmark court ruling in January 2025, the government has been forced to make key changes to how the SRD grant is managed, who qualifies, and how payments are made. These reforms are a win for millions of low-income South Africans who’ve long been frustrated with delays, rejections, and low payouts.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the changes made by the court order, what it means for your SRD payments, how to apply now, and what to expect in the months ahead.
SRD Grant Payments Just Went Up
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New SRD Payment Amount | Will be increased progressively from current R370 based on inflation |
| Income Threshold | To be revised to allow more people to qualify |
| Application Process | In-person applications to be introduced |
| Payment Delays | SASSA ordered to fix systemic delays within 4 months |
| Definition of Income | Only regular income to be considered (excludes gifts, child maintenance) |
| Total Budget Allocated | R35.2 billion for 2025–26 |
| Grant Extended Until | March 2026 |
| Official Resource | SASSA Official Website |
The January 2025 court order has reshaped the future of SRD grants in South Africa—making it more accessible, fair, and responsive to the real needs of the people. Whether it’s the promise of higher payments, more inclusive application methods, or a fairer income test, these changes are long overdue.
But as the government appeals the judgment, the fight for economic dignity and social justice continues. For now, beneficiaries should stay informed, apply under the new rules, and expect real improvements in service delivery.
What Is the SRD Grant and Why It Matters
The SRD grant was first introduced as a temporary COVID-19 measure in 2020, providing R350 per month to unemployed individuals who did not receive any other form of government support. Since then, it has been extended multiple times due to ongoing poverty and unemployment, especially among youth.
But many beneficiaries have complained that:
- The grant amount was too little to survive on,
- The application process was difficult and only online,
- And people were disqualified unfairly due to strict income rules.
That all changed with a bold ruling by the Pretoria High Court in January 2025, which found several existing SRD grant regulations unconstitutional.
What the Court Ordered
1. The Grant Amount Must Go Up
The court said that the existing R370 per month was “patently inadequate” to meet anyone’s basic needs. It instructed the government to:
- Revise the amount regularly based on inflation,
- Ensure a plan is in place for progressive increases,
- And make this plan public.
While the exact timeline for new payment amounts is yet to be revealed, experts expect the grant could increase to R450–R500 in 2025, depending on budget allocation and inflation.
2. Income Thresholds Must Be Reviewed
Previously, even receiving a small gift, child maintenance, or temporary money transfers could disqualify you. The court said that was unfair. Now:
- Only regular earnings from employment, business, or investments will be considered.
- One-time support, like help from family or friends, won’t count as income.
This change is expected to allow hundreds of thousands more applicants to qualify.
3. In-Person Applications Must Be Allowed
Until now, the only way to apply for the SRD grant was online through the SASSA portal or WhatsApp. That left out many South Africans in rural areas without smartphones or internet.
The court has now ruled:
- Offline/in-person applications must be made available at SASSA offices and community centers.
- The system must be made more accessible, especially for the elderly and disabled.
4. Payment Delays Must Be Fixed
According to the ruling, SASSA has been violating constitutional rights by not paying approved applicants in time. As a result:
- SASSA must investigate delays,
- Develop a timeline to resolve them (within four months),
- And report progress to the public.
This means if you’re waiting for a backlog of unpaid SRD grants, there could be faster resolutions and backdated payments in the coming months.
Government Response and Appeal
The Department of Social Development, SASSA, and the National Treasury have filed an appeal against the judgment. However, this does not suspend the court’s orders, which must still be implemented unless overturned.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, during his February 2025 Budget Speech, acknowledged the court’s impact and confirmed:
How Long Will the SRD Grant Continue?
Currently, the SRD grant is confirmed to run until March 2026. While this offers a short-term safety net, long-term continuation depends on:
- Whether it is replaced with a Basic Income Support (BIS) model,
- The outcome of the appeal, and
- How South Africa’s budget deficit evolves.
The government has warned that the SRD grant and other social programs must be funded “within sustainable fiscal limits.”
SRD Grant Payments: How to Apply Under the New Rules?
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Eligibility:
- You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Aged 18 to 59 years.
- Not receiving any other social grant or UIF payment.
- Apply Online (if available):
- Visit SASSA SRD Portal
- Or use the GovChat app, WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- Apply In Person (New Option):
- Visit your nearest SASSA office or Community Hall (watch for announcements).
- Bring ID, proof of residence, and banking details.
- Track Your Application:
- Use your ID number on the official website or SASSA’s WhatsApp for updates.
- Expect Payment via:
- Bank account (preferred),
- Post Office collection, or
- Retailer cash pickup (like Pick n Pay, Boxer).
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FAQs on SRD Grant Payments
1. Is the SRD grant amount increasing in April 2025?
No official increase has taken effect as of April 2025, but the government has been ordered to plan for increases. Watch official updates from SASSA.
2. Can I now apply without internet access?
Yes! In-person applications are now allowed at SASSA offices and designated centers.
3. What kind of income disqualifies me from the grant?
Only regular income from employment or business will be considered—not one-time gifts or occasional financial support.
4. What happens if my payment is delayed?
SASSA must now fix these delays as per the court’s ruling. If you’re still waiting, contact SASSA or check the online portal.
5. Is this a permanent increase in SRD payments?
Not yet. The increase will happen gradually based on inflation and available funding. The court has required a roadmap from the government.
