The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has increased the value of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant to R370. This vital financial support helps millions of vulnerable adults meet their basic needs each month.
Existing SRD grant beneficiaries automatically receive the increased SRD grant payment. However, people can still apply for the grant.
How To Apply For The R370 Grant
There are two ways to apply for the R370 grant. Applications can be submitted online through the official SASSA SRD Grant website (https://srd.sassa.gov.za/) or on WhatsApp using the Sassa number (082 046 8553).
Applying Online
- Visit the SRD Grant website
- Select Citizenship: Choose "South African ID Holder" or "Asylum Seeker/Special Permit Holder."
- Start Application: Click the yellow bar "Click here to apply online" under the relevant section.
- Verify Phone Number: Enter your mobile number, receive an OTP via SMS, and enter it for verification.
- Complete Application: Follow the on-screen steps to finalize your application.
Applying via WhatsApp:
- Save Sassa Number: Add 082 046 8553 to your contacts for easy access.
- Start Chat: Open WhatsApp and send "Hi" to initiate the application process.
- Request Help: Reply with "Help" for further instructions.
- Choose SRD Option: Reply with "4" for the Sassa platform message, then "SRD" to proceed.
- Start Application: Confirm who you're applying for (yourself or someone else) and provide your name, surname, and ID number.
- Follow Instructions: You'll receive further steps to complete the application.
It's important to note that you only need to apply only once. Multiple applications won't be processed by Sassa.
You must also ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by Sassa. This includes being a South African citizen, resident, or special permit holder, not receiving other government support (UIF, NSFAS), and having a bank balance below R624.
SASSA verifies applications with other government departments. Payments are typically made at the month's end due to this process. By following these steps and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can access this essential financial support.
Once you have applied for the grant you should run a Sassa status check to confirm whether you will be paid the R370 SRD Grant this month or not.
