Millions of South Africans relying on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant can now easily check their payment dates online, thanks to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). The agency has launched a user-friendly online status check system that allows beneficiaries to access vital information regarding their upcoming payments with just a few clicks. By entering their South African ID number and the cellphone number registered with SASSA, users can instantly find out when their grants will be disbursed, enabling them to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary trips to payment points.
“Using this SASSA status check tool, you can discover when you’ll receive your relief payments and many other important information related to your grant application,” SASSA stated. However, beneficiaries must ensure that the details they provide are accurate; even a single incorrect digit can prevent access to their application status. “If you put any wrong detail, either your phone number or ID number, you may not be able to check your application status,” the agency warned.
To check their status, beneficiaries can visit the official SRD website, enter their ID and cellphone number, and wait for the system to display the latest payment update. “Following these steps will make you informed about your R370 or social relief grant application. Once you’re updated about your R370 status, it will be easy for you to know when you should be visiting payment points to receive your money,” SASSA added. In case of unclear messages or confusion, SASSA encourages applicants to reach out directly for support.
In an important update for April 2025, the SRD grant amount has increased from R370 to R390 per month. This change is part of the government's ongoing commitment to alleviate poverty and assist South Africans struggling with unemployment and economic hardship. The increase, while modest, reflects the government's efforts to support low-income households affected by rising living costs and economic instability. According to the Department of Social Development, this adjustment aligns with inflation trends and is part of a broader strategy to transition to a Basic Income Support mechanism, which is under review for implementation later in 2025.
As of April 2025, the eligibility criteria for the SRD grant remain stringent. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents aged between 18 and 59, unemployed, and not receiving any other social grant or state support. Additionally, applicants must have a bank balance of less than R624 at the time of means testing, ensuring that only those in genuine financial distress qualify for the support.
Applying for the SRD grant is free and can be done through various convenient channels. Here’s how:
- Online: Visit the official SASSA SRD site at srd.sassa.gov.za, click on “Apply Here,” enter your ID number and mobile number, confirm via OTP (One-Time PIN), and follow the prompts.
- WhatsApp: Add the number 082 046 8553 to your contacts, send the word “SRD” to start, and follow the prompts.
- USSD: Dial 1347737# and follow the prompts on your screen.
- In Person: Visit your nearest SASSA office, bringing your ID, proof of residence, and a working cellphone number for assistance.
Once applications are submitted, beneficiaries can check their grant status through several methods, including the online portal, SMS, or WhatsApp. The payment dates for the SRD grant for April 2025 have been confirmed, with funds disbursed from April 25 to April 30.
SASSA has also released the payment schedule for other grants in April 2025. The Old Age Pension Grant will be disbursed on April 2, while the Disability Grant will be paid on April 3, and Child Support and other grants will follow on April 4. With over 18 million South Africans depending on these grants, staying informed ensures that beneficiaries receive the support they need without delays.
For those collecting their grants, SASSA provides various secure payment methods, including bank deposits, CashSend services, and withdrawals from retail outlets such as Pick n Pay and Checkers. Beneficiaries are advised to keep their contact details updated to avoid missing important notifications regarding their payments.
As the SRD grant evolves, discussions about a Basic Income Support Grant are scheduled for September 2025. This proposed shift could lead to a more sustainable support structure, offering consistent aid to those below the poverty line, especially youth and informal workers.
In summary, the recent updates to the SASSA SRD grant and the clear payment schedule for April 2025 offer crucial information for millions of beneficiaries. By utilizing the online status check tool and staying informed about payment dates and eligibility criteria, South Africans can better navigate their financial situations during these challenging economic times.
For more information, beneficiaries can visit the official SASSA website at srd.sassa.gov.za or contact the SASSA Call Centre at 0800 60 10 11 for assistance.
