SASSA SRD Grant Increase 2025: Millions of South Africans who depend on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant can expect a financial boost in 2025. A recent ruling by the Pretoria High Court has directed the government to increase the SRD grant, adjust the income threshold, and make applications more accessible. This decision aims to provide greater financial support to unemployed individuals struggling to meet their daily needs.
The government has been given four months to implement the changes, with the new grant amount and eligibility rules expected to take effect by mid-2025. This article outlines the main aspects of the SRD grant increase, including the expected payment amount, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Overview Table: SASSA SRD Grant Increase
| Key Information | Details |
| Current Payment Amount | R370 per month |
| Expected Increase | Estimated between R420 and R500 per month |
| Income Threshold | R624 per month (set to increase) |
| Application Methods | Online and in-person at SASSA offices |
| Deadline for Implementation | May 2025 |
| Expected Start Date | June 2025 |
| Official Website | www.sassa.gov.za |
What is the SRD Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress grant, introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed South Africans with no other income source. Originally set at R350 per month, the grant was increased to R370 in April 2024.
This grant plays a vital role in helping individuals cover essential living expenses such as food, transportation, and basic household needs. The recent court ruling aims to further increase the grant amount to help recipients keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living.
What Did the Court Rule?
The Pretoria High Court issued a ruling that requires the government to make several key changes to the SRD grant program. The ruling includes the following four main directives:
1. Increase in SRD Grant Amount
The court found the current payment of R370 per month insufficient to meet the basic needs of recipients. It ordered the government to increase the grant amount, considering inflation and the cost of living. Although the exact amount has not been finalized, analysts expect the grant to increase to between R420 and R500 per month.
2. Higher Income Threshold
The current income threshold of R624 per month prevents many financially vulnerable individuals from qualifying for the grant. The court ruled that this limit is too low and must be increased, allowing more people to receive financial assistance. The government is expected to announce the new income limit before the May 2025 deadline.
3. In-Person Applications at SASSA Offices
Previously, SRD grant applications could only be submitted online, which excluded individuals without internet access. The court ordered SASSA to introduce in-person application options at its offices, making the process more accessible to all eligible individuals.
4. Fairer Definition of Income
The court ruled that one-time payments, such as financial gifts from family members or friends, should not be counted as income when assessing eligibility. This change ensures that applicants are not unfairly disqualified due to occasional deposits in their bank accounts.
The government must implement these changes by May 2025, with the increased payments expected to start in June 2025.
How Much Will the SRD Grant Increase?
The exact amount of the SRD grant increase has not yet been confirmed. However, financial experts estimate that the monthly payment will increase to between R420 and R500. This adjustment aims to help recipients manage rising living costs and improve their financial stability.
The final amount will depend on the government’s budget and the Treasury’s approval. SASSA will announce the official payment amount once the decision is finalized. Beneficiaries should monitor SASSA’s official website for updates.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
The government has until May 2025 to implement the changes ordered by the court. This means that the increased SRD grant and revised eligibility criteria are expected to take effect in June 2025.
SASSA will provide updates on its website and through public announcements. Current beneficiaries should check for notifications regarding any actions they may need to take once the changes are implemented.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant in 2025?
To qualify for the SRD grant in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be unemployed and have no income exceeding the revised income threshold.
- Not receive any other social grants (excluding child support grants), UIF payments, or NSFAS funding.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Reside in South Africa.
The court’s directive to increase the income threshold means that more individuals will qualify for the grant. Applicants who were previously disqualified due to occasional deposits or low income exceeding R624 may now be eligible under the revised rules.
How to Apply for the SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed by Court Ruling
The application process for the SRD grant will change following the court ruling. Applicants will have the option to apply both online and in person at SASSA offices. Here is an overview of the current and updated processes:
Current Application Process (Before the Changes)
- Submit an application online through the SASSA website or SRD portal.
- Provide a South African ID and registered mobile number.
- Enter bank account details for income verification.
New Application Process (After Court Ruling)
- Submit an application online or in person at a SASSA office.
- Provide identification and contact information.
- Bank account details are required, but one-time deposits will no longer count as income.
- The increased income threshold will apply, allowing more applicants to qualify.
SASSA will provide detailed instructions on how to apply once the changes are implemented. Applicants should check the official website regularly for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the SRD grant increase?
The SRD grant increase is expected to take effect in June 2025, following the government’s deadline to implement changes by May 2025.
How much will the new SRD grant be?
The exact amount has not been confirmed, but estimates suggest it will increase to between R420 and R500 per month.
Will I need to reapply if I already receive the SRD grant?
SASSA has not yet confirmed whether current beneficiaries will need to reapply. However, recipients should ensure that their contact and banking information is up to date.
Can I apply in person for the SRD grant now?
Not yet. In-person applications will be available once SASSA implements the changes, which must happen by May 2025.
Will I automatically receive the increased SRD amount if I already receive the grant?
Yes. If you currently receive the SRD grant and meet the revised eligibility criteria, your payments will be adjusted automatically.
