SASSA R350 SRD Grant: Full History and Current Status (2026)
The SASSA R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant was introduced in May 2020 as an emergency measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has since become a permanent feature of South Africa's social protection system. This guide covers the full history of the grant, how it evolved, and what applicants need to know in 2026.
Origins: COVID-19 Emergency Relief (2020)
In April 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a R500 billion economic relief package in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this package, SASSA introduced the Social Relief of Distress grant of R350 per month for unemployed South Africans who did not receive any other social grant or UIF payment.
The grant was intended to run for six months but was repeatedly extended as economic conditions remained difficult. By the end of 2020, more than 10 million South Africans had received the payment.
By 2022, more than 13 million applications had been approved, making the SRD grant the largest single expansion of the social grants system in South Africa's history.
Extensions and Adjustments (2021–2022)
The grant was extended multiple times by Cabinet decisions. In 2021 the amount remained at R350 per month. The application process shifted from USSD and WhatsApp to an online portal at srd.sassa.gov.za.
A key legal challenge came in 2021 when the means test — an income threshold used to determine eligibility — was contested. Courts ruled that SASSA had to review millions of rejected applications where the means test had been applied incorrectly.
Institutionalisation (2023–2024)
Following the 2022 national budget, the grant was extended indefinitely. The amount was increased to R370 per month in April 2023, and then to R350 — confusingly reverting in nominal terms in some periods due to budget adjustments.
The government began studying the SRD grant as a potential precursor to a Basic Income Grant (BIG). A Presidential Advisory Panel recommended formalising the grant in legislation.
To apply or check your SRD grant status visit srd.sassa.gov.za or WhatsApp SASSA on 082 046 8553.
Current Status in 2026
As of 2026, the SRD grant continues to be paid at the current approved amount. SASSA processes applications digitally via srd.sassa.gov.za. Applicants must reapply every three months and their income is verified against SARS, UIF, and other government databases.
The grant remains means-tested — applicants whose bank accounts show income above the threshold in the previous month are declined for that month.
Key Milestones Timeline
- May 2020 — R350 SRD grant launched as COVID-19 emergency relief
- October 2020 — First 6-month period ends; grant extended
- April 2021 — Application portal moved to srd.sassa.gov.za
- March 2022 — Grant extended in national budget indefinitely
- April 2023 — Amount adjusted; debates about Basic Income Grant intensify
- 2024–2026 — Grant continues; digital-first application and verification