The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has announced that over 8 million people receive the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant payments each month.
To accommodate the millions of beneficiaries nationwide, Sassa has partnered with various retailers, including Shoprite, to provide accessible locations for collecting SRD grant payments.
Shoprite: A Key Partner in Grant Distribution
With more than 500 stores across South Africa, Shoprite is a vital partner in assisting Sassa to distribute grants to vulnerable citizens.
How to Collect Your R350 Grant at Shoprite
What You Need
To collect your grant at Shoprite or any other participating supermarket, you'll need the following:
- Your ID: Used to verify your identity.
- Your registered Sassa cellphone number: This is an important security measure to prevent fraud.
Collection Process
To collect your Sassa grant at Shoprite or another participating supermarket, follow these steps:
- Present Your ID and Cellphone Number: Provide your ID and the registered cellphone number used when applying for your grant at the till point. The cashier will verify your identity and confirm that your grant is available for collection.
- Receive a One-Time PIN (OTP): As an additional security measure, you will receive a one-time PIN (OTP) on your registered cellphone number. This unique code ensures that you are the authorized recipient of the grant.
- Approve the OTP: Once you receive the OTP, approve it on your phone. After approval, you'll be able to collect your grant in cash.
Important Security Tips
- Do not share personal information: Sassa cautions beneficiaries against sharing their personal details with strangers. You will never be asked to enter personal information on your cellphone or click on any links during the collection process.
- Ensure your cellphone number is accurate: The OTP will be sent to the number you provided during your Sassa application. If you need to update your number, visit the Sassa website.
- Get a SIM card if needed: If you do not have a registered cellphone number, consider getting a SIM card and using that number to apply for your grant.
Who Qualifies for SRD Grant Payments
To qualify for the SRD grant in South Africa, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship and Residency: Applicants must be citizens, residents, or special permit holders.
- No Other Government Support: Applicants should not be receiving other government support, such as UIF benefits or NSFAS bursaries.
- Bank Account Balance: The applicant's bank account should have less than R624 to be eligible for the R350 grant.
Verification Process
Sassa conducts verification checks in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm identity and citizenship. Bank details are also shared with the Department of Treasury for income verification. Once eligibility is confirmed, Sassa proceeds with payments, typically scheduled at the end of the month.
