The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced significant updates for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant in April 2025.
Beneficiaries can anticipate an increase in the grant amount, revised payment schedules, and essential information regarding application and collection processes.
SRD Grant Increase: April 2025 Adjustment
Effective from April 2025, the SRD grant amount has been increased by R20, raising the monthly payment from R350 to R370. This adjustment aims to provide additional financial support to beneficiaries amid rising living costs.
Payment Schedule for April 2025
SASSA has released the payment dates for various grants for April 2025. While specific dates for the SRD grant are not fixed, payments are generally processed in batches between April 25 and April 30. Beneficiaries are advised to monitor their application status regularly.
Grant Amounts and Eligibility Criteria
Alongside the SRD grant increase, other social grants have also seen adjustments. The following table summarizes the new grant amounts and their eligibility criteria:
| Grant Type | New Monthly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| SRD Grant | R370 | South African citizens, permanent residents, or recognized refugees aged 18-59 with no other income. |
| Older Persons Grant | R2,315 | South Africans aged 60 and above. |
| Disability Grant | R2,315 | Individuals with disabilities affecting their ability to work. |
| Child Support Grant | R560 | Primary caregivers of children under 18. |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 | Individuals caring for foster children. |
Payment Collection Process
Before payment processing, SASSA will send SMS notifications to recipients. Payments are deposited directly into bank accounts or made available at selected collection points, depending on the chosen payment method during the application process.
Application Methods for the SRD Grant
Applicants can apply for the SRD grant through the following methods:
- Online Application via SASSA’s Website
- Visit the official SASSA website: www.srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Navigate to the SRD Grant application portal.
- Provide all required personal details.
- Upload necessary supporting documents.
- Submit the application and await confirmation via SMS or email.
- Applying via WhatsApp
- Save SASSA’s WhatsApp contact number: 0820468553.
- Send a message saying “SRD Grant Application.”
- Follow the automated prompts to complete the process.
- Attach required documents and await the approval message.
- Applying via USSD Code
- Dial 1347737# from a mobile device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to enter necessary details.
- Upload required documentation and submit the application.
Other Social Grant Increases in 2025
In addition to the SRD grant, other social grants have received significant adjustments as of April 2025:
- Old Age Grant: Increased to R2,315 per month.
- Disability Grant: Raised to R2,315 per month.
- Child Support Grant: Now stands at R560 per month.
- Foster Care Grant: Increased to R1,250 per month.
These adjustments aim to help vulnerable populations manage rising expenses and maintain financial stability.
The April 2025 adjustments to social grants, including the SRD grant increase and other grants, reflect the government’s commitment to supporting South Africans amid economic challenges.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about payment schedules, ensure their personal details are updated, and utilize the available application methods to access their grants seamlessly
FAQs
What should beneficiaries do if they haven’t transitioned from the Gold Card to the Black Card?
Beneficiaries should visit Postbank branches or authorized retailers to exchange their Gold Cards for the new Black Cards before May 31, 2025, to ensure continuous access to their grants.
Will grants be paid on weekends in April 2025?
No, SASSA typically does not process payments over weekends. Beneficiaries are advised to collect their grants on the scheduled weekdays: April 2, 3, and 4, 2025.
What happens if a beneficiary misses the card transition deadline?
After May 31, 2025, Gold Cards will no longer be valid. Beneficiaries who miss the deadline may experience delays or disruptions in accessing their grants.