The R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant remains a cornerstone of support for unemployed South Africans aged 18–59 who have no other source of income. Here’s your all-in-one, step-by-step guide to applying online in 2025:
Who is Eligible?
To qualify, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylum seeker registered with Home Affairs
- Be between 18 and 59 years old
- Be unemployed with no other income or social grants (no UIF, NSFAS, or other grant)
- Not be living in government-funded institutions
- Have a valid cellphone number and preferably banking details for direct payment
Step-by-Step Online Application
- Access the official portal
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za. - Click “Apply”
Select “Apply for the SRD Grant” (now R370) on the homepage. - Enter your ID and cellphone number
Use your valid ID number and mobile number to receive a verification SMS. - Enter the OTP
Input the one-time PIN sent to your phone. - Complete your personal and banking details
Provide your name, address, employment status, and preferred payment method. - Consent to verification
Agree to have your information checked against databases like SARS, UIF, and banks. - Submit the application
Once complete, you will receive an SMS confirming your submission.
What Happens Next?
- Processing Time: Applications may take 7 to 90 days depending on verification load.
- No back pay: Payments begin from the month of approval—not the date of application.
- Quarterly Reconfirmation: Reconfirm your eligibility every three months via the same portal.
How to Check Your Status or Update Details
- Online: srd.sassa.gov.za
- WhatsApp: Send “Status” to 082 046 8553
- USSD: Dial *134*7737# from your registered cellphone
- Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: SRD@sassa.gov.za
You can also update your banking details or switch collection methods (e.g., Boxer, Pick n Pay, Postbank) via the online portal.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Applying while receiving UIF, NSFAS, or another social grant
- Entering incorrect ID or contact details
- Not reconfirming your eligibility quarterly
- Believing misinformation about early or double payments
In Summary
- Go to srd.sassa.gov.za to apply
- Use your ID and mobile number to verify
- Submit accurate personal and payment info
- Reconfirm eligibility every 3 months
- Monitor status via online, WhatsApp, or USSD
This R370 monthly support is now fully digital, with no in-person paperwork required—ensuring quicker, more secure access for millions of South Africans in 2025.
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