Millions of South Africans can breathe a sigh of relief following the latest announcement regarding the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. It has been confirmed that the grant, recently increased to R370, will be extended until March 2027.

This extension serves as a vital lifeline for beneficiaries relying on social security to meet their basic needs amid rising living costs and economic challenges.

The Announcement: A Commitment to Social Security

The extension of the SRD grant signals the government's continued commitment to supporting unemployed citizens. Originally introduced as a temporary measure during the global pandemic, the grant has evolved into a critical pillar of South Africa’s social safety net.

By extending the grant timeframe to 2027, the National Treasury and the Department of Social Development have provided much-needed certainty to millions of applicants who were worried the support would come to an abrupt end.

Why the Extension Matters

The decision to extend the grant comes after extensive consultation regarding the country's socio-economic landscape.

  • Combating Poverty: The grant remains a primary source of income for millions of households with no other financial support.

  • Job Market Stability: With unemployment rates still high, the grant provides a buffer for job seekers traveling to interviews or purchasing data to apply for work.

  • Economic Injection: The grant circulates billions of Rands into the local economy, supporting small businesses in townships and rural areas.

Will the Amount Increase Further?

Currently, the grant stands at R370 per month (an increase from the previous R350). While the extension to 2027 secures the duration of the grant, beneficiaries often ask if the amount will increase further.

At this stage, the confirmed figure remains R370. However, civil society groups continue to lobby for the grant to be aligned with the Food Poverty Line. Any future increases will depend on budget availability and announcements by the Finance Minister during the annual budget speeches.

Do I Need to Re-Apply?

With the extension confirmed, current beneficiaries are reminded of the following:

  1. Check Your Status: You do not necessarily need to re-apply every month, but you must check your status monthly to ensure you still qualify.

  2. Keep Details Updated: If your phone number or banking details have changed, update them on the SRD website immediately to avoid payment delays.

  3. Means Test: The income threshold and verification processes remain in place. SASSA will continue to verify your income against bank accounts and government databases.

How to Check Your SRD Status

To ensure you receive your payment during this extended period, regularly check your status:

  • Website: Go to the official SASSA SRD website.

  • WhatsApp: Use the official SASSA WhatsApp line (082 046 8553).

  • USSD: Dial 1347737# from your mobile phone.

Final Thoughts

The extension of the SRD R370 grant to 2027 is a significant development for social security in South Africa. We will continue to monitor official channels for any changes to payment dates or application criteria.

Stay tuned to mySRD for the latest payment dates and official SASSA updates.