SASSA SRD R370 Grant in South Africa
The SRD R350 Grant or SRD R370 Grant, officially known as the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, is a temporary financial assistance program introduced by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Originally launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, it continues to support millions of unemployed South Africans who are struggling to meet basic living needs.
If you’re wondering what the R350 grant is, how to apply online, who qualifies, and what happens if your application is declined, this guide answers every question with the latest updates.
What Is the SRD R350 Grant?
The SASSA SRD R350 Grant is a monthly financial aid provided to South African citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylum seekers, and special permit holders who have no form of income, social grants, or unemployment insurance. It offers R350 per month and is managed by SASSA under the supervision of the Department of Social Development (DSD).
It is not a permanent grant like the Old Age Pension or Child Support Grant, but a temporary measure meant to relieve extreme financial distress for people between the ages of 18 and 59.
Who Qualifies for the R350 Grant?
To qualify for the R350 SRD grant, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, asylum seeker, or hold a special permit
- Be unemployed and not receiving any income
- Not receiving any social grants, UIF payments, or NSFAS funding
- Be between the ages of 18 and 59
- Have a monthly income below R624
- Must have a valid South African ID
- Reside in South Africa at the time of applying
Eligibility is checked every month, and the applicant must meet the criteria continuously to receive payment.
What Documents Are Required for the SRD Grant?
To apply for the R350 grant, the following documents and details are required:
- South African ID number
- Full name and surname
- Active cellphone number (RICA-registered)
- Proof of address (not always required but may be asked)
- Banking details (for direct deposits)
- Declaration of income and unemployment
If applying as a refugee or asylum seeker, you’ll need a valid File number or Special Permit number issued by Home Affairs.
How to Apply for the SRD R350 Grant Online?
SASSA has made it easy to apply through multiple digital platforms. Here’s a step-by-step guide to submitting your SRD application:
- Step 1: Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Step 2: Click on “Apply” if you’re a first-time applicant or “Reconfirm Existing Application” if you’ve previously applied.
- Step 3: Enter your ID number and mobile number. You’ll receive a One-Time PIN (OTP) to verify.
- Step 4: Give SASSA permission to verify your identity, income, and citizenship status with SARS, Home Affairs, UIF, and NSFAS.
- Step 5: Select bank payment or cash send/retail collection. Provide your bank account details if choosing the direct deposit method.
- Step 6: After applying, check your status regularly. You’ll be notified via SMS once your application is approved or declined.
What Happens If Your R370 Grant Application Is Rejected?
Many applicants face rejection due to:
- Incorrect or mismatched ID or banking details
- Receiving other government funding (NSFAS, UIF, etc.)
- Monthly income exceeding R624
- Incomplete or unverified applications
How to Appeal a Rejected SRD Application
If your application was declined, you can submit an appeal within 90 days via the DSD’s independent tribunal:
- Visit: https://srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals
- Enter your ID and mobile number
- Choose the month you want to appeal
- Submit reasons and wait for tribunal review
Appeals are usually processed within 60 to 90 days, and successful appeals will result in back pay for missed months.
How Much Do You Get from the SRD Grant?
The current amount is R350 per month, and there have been no official increases as of 2025. This amount is non-taxable, and there are no deductions made from it. Payment is made monthly, subject to revalidation.
How Will You Receive the R350 Grant if Approved?
Once your SRD grant is approved, SASSA offers two main payment methods:
1. Bank Deposit=> If you submitted your banking details, payment will be made directly into your personal bank account. This is the fastest and safest method.
2. Retail Store Collection=> If you opted for cash collection, you can receive your payment at:
- Pick n Pay
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Boxer
- Usave
You’ll receive an SMS with a voucher code or PIN when the money is available. Ensure your cellphone number is RICA-registered and used during application.
How to Check Your SRD R350 Grant Status?
SASSA offers several ways to check your application and payment status:
Online Status Check
- Visit: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- Enter your ID and phone number
- Save 082 046 8553
- Send “Status” and follow prompts
Call Centre
Dial 0800 60 10 11 for updates and help
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: Banking Details Not Verified
Solution: Ensure your ID and bank account holder name match exactly.
Problem 2: Status Approved, No Payment Date
Solution: Wait a few days — payment date is updated after bank verification. If it persists, contact SASSA.
Problem 3: No SMS Received
Solution: Check if your cellphone number is active, RICA-registered, and not changed since applying.
Final Words on the SRD R370 Grant
The SRD R350 grant continues to be a lifeline for South Africans facing unemployment and financial hardship. By understanding the eligibility rules, submitting accurate information, and keeping your application up to date, you can ensure you receive your rightful support every month.