The South African government has made significant moves to support the unemployed population with an extension of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.
Initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide financial relief, the grant has now been extended until March 31, 2026, with new payment dates for recipients.
The SRD grant offers financial support to South Africans who do not receive other forms of government assistance.
This extension will help millions of individuals facing financial challenges in a high unemployment environment. As of March 2025, the grant payments will continue to provide essential financial relief to those in need.
Overview of the SRD Grant Extension
| Grant | Amount | Payment Dates | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRD Grant | R370 per month | March 26 – March 29, 2025 | South African citizens aged 18-59, low income |
| R700 Grant Misinformation | N/A | N/A | False claim circulating in the media |
| Eligible Payment Methods | Bank accounts, CashSend, Retail stores | Ongoing until March 2026 | Must meet income and no other grants |
Payment Dates and Schedule for SRD Grant in 2025
For March 2025, SASSA will be disbursing SRD grant payments between March 26 and March 29. These payments will be available to all eligible beneficiaries.
However, recipients must ensure that their banking information is up-to-date, as the SASSA Gold Cards will no longer be valid after February 28, 2025.
SASSA encourages all recipients to transition to alternate payment methods for continued access to the SRD grant.
How to Apply for SRD Grant and Track Payment Status
Beneficiaries can easily check the status of their applications and payment dates through the following methods:
- Online Check: Visit the official SASSA SRD website and input your South African ID number and registered mobile number.
- WhatsApp Tracking: Send a message to SASSA’s official WhatsApp number at 082 046 8553 for updates.
- Toll-Free Number: Call 0800 60 10 11 for personalized assistance and to track the status of payments.
Eligibility for the SRD Grant
To qualify for the SRD grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 59 years old.
- Be a South African citizen, refugee, or special permit holder.
- Not have an income exceeding R624 per month.
- Not receive any other form of government assistance such as the UIF or National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The SRD grant remains an essential lifeline for unemployed individuals, particularly in a country with high unemployment rates.
Addressing the Misinformation About the R700 Grant
Recently, misinformation surrounding a R700 grant has caused confusion among potential beneficiaries. As of March 7, 2025, SASSA officials have confirmed that no such R700 grant exists.
The confusion stemmed from social media posts and unofficial channels. SASSA urges the public to disregard these claims and rely only on verified government communications for accurate information.
It’s important for SRD recipients to remain cautious of fraudulent activities, such as identity theft, which can occur when personal details are shared via unofficial links.
How the New Payment System Will Work
In order to receive the SRD grant without disruption, recipients are encouraged to ensure that their payment information is current. After the SASSA Gold Cards become invalid in February 2025, individuals will need to update their bank account details or opt for other payment methods such as:
- Direct deposit to personal bank accounts.
- CashSend services for those without bank accounts.
- Retail collection points at stores like Pick n Pay and Shoprite.
This multi-channel payment system is designed to provide greater flexibility and easier access for all eligible individuals.
SASSA’s extension of the SRD grant until March 2026 is a vital financial measure for many South Africans facing economic hardship.
With new payment dates and updated payment systems, beneficiaries must remain vigilant and informed to ensure they receive timely support.
Regularly checking the status of applications and updating payment details will help avoid any delays in receiving the much-needed assistance.
FAQs
What are the payment dates for the SRD grant in March 2025?
The SRD grant payments will be disbursed between March 26 and March 29, 2025 for eligible recipients.
How can I track my SRD grant payment status?
Recipients can track their payment status via the SASSA SRD website, WhatsApp, or by calling the toll-free number.
Is there a R700 grant being issued by SASSA?
No, the R700 grant circulating on social media is not a valid offer. SASSA urges the public to disregard this misinformation.