Millions of South Africans who rely on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant can breathe a sigh of relief—SASSA has officially confirmed that the R348 payments will be made as scheduled in April 2025.
After weeks of uncertainty following the government’s budget review, this announcement brings much-needed reassurance to approximately 7.5 million grant recipients.
For many, this grant is more than just financial aid—it’s a lifeline. Take Nomvula Mbatha, a 37-year-old mother of two from Soweto, who described the stress of possibly losing this support. “I couldn’t sleep when I heard rumors that it might stop,” she said. “This money keeps food on our table.” Like Nomvula, countless others depend on this grant to cover basic necessities.
Payment Dates
SASSA has provided a clear schedule for the April 2025 grant payments:
| Grant Type | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Older Person’s Grants | April 2-3 |
| Disability Grants | April 4-5 |
| Children’s Grants | April 6-7 |
| R348 SRD Grants | April 8-15 (by ID number) |
The R348 SRD grant will be paid over several days based on the last digit of recipients’ ID numbers:
| ID Number Ending In | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 0 and 1 | April 8 |
| 2 and 3 | April 9 |
| 4 and 5 | April 10 |
| 6 and 7 | April 11 |
| 8 and 9 | April 12-15 |
This staggered approach aims to reduce long queues and system overloads, a problem that plagued previous payment cycles.
R348 Grant
The SRD grant was first introduced in 2020 at R350 per month as a temporary response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over time, the amount fluctuated slightly due to inflation and government budget adjustments. In February 2024, it was set at R348.
While the R2 reduction may seem minor, for recipients like Sipho Nkosi, every rand counts. “People don’t know—R2 less means less food,” he explained while showing his carefully calculated monthly budget.
Eligibility Criteria
The qualifications for the R348 grant remain unchanged:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee
- Must reside in South Africa
- Must be between 18 and 60 years old
- Must not receive any other social grants
- Must not receive unemployment benefits or NSFAS support
- Must have an income of less than R624 per month
Many applicants struggle with the income threshold rule. Even receiving a one-time payment of R700 from a temporary job can result in disqualification for months. “The system is rigid and doesn’t consider informal work,” said Thandiwe Zulu, a community activist.
Application
Applying for the R348 grant can be done through:
- SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
- SRD mobile app
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- USSD code: 1347737#
Existing recipients must reconfirm their eligibility every three months. Missing the reconfirmation deadline (March 15, 2025, for April payments) could result in payment delays.
Bongani Mathebula, a 29-year-old from Alexandra township, learned this the hard way. “I didn’t realize I had to reconfirm. I missed two payments before I figured it out,” he said.
Payment Methods
Recipients can receive their grants through:
- Bank transfers (direct deposit to personal accounts)
- Post Bank accounts (linked to the South African Post Office)
- Mobile money (eWallet, MomoPay)
- Retail stores (Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, USave)
While retail payments offer convenience, long queues and cash shortages remain an issue. “Last month, I waited from 4:30 AM and still got turned away,” said Miriam Khoza, a 56-year-old caregiver.
Impact
Despite being just R348—around $19 USD—the grant has a significant impact. A study by the University of Johannesburg found that most recipients spend over 80% of their grant on food, with the rest covering transport and other essentials.
For Patience Modise, a 26-year-old from Orange Farm, it provides stability. “It’s not enough to live on, but at least I know I won’t go completely hungry,” she said.
Economists also highlight how the grant benefits local economies. Spaza shop owners like Thabo Moloi say grant days act as “mini economic boosts” for townships, increasing sales of basic food items.
Challenges
Despite its benefits, the R348 grant faces criticism:
- Sustainability concerns: Some argue that billions spent on grants could be used for job creation.
- Administrative inefficiencies: Late payments, technical glitches, and poor communication frustrate recipients.
- Fraud concerns: Reports of ghost beneficiaries and illegal deductions have surfaced, though SASSA claims to have improved verification processes.
With the 2026 elections approaching, experts believe the grant is unlikely to be scrapped soon. However, discussions about transforming it into a permanent Basic Income Grant (BIG) continue.
Professor Lerato Khumalo, a policy expert, argues for a long-term solution. “The uncertainty around extensions creates unnecessary stress. A permanent grant would allow better planning for recipients and policymakers.”
For now, the R348 SRD grant remains a vital yet imperfect safety net. While debates about its sustainability continue, for millions of South Africans, this modest payment is the difference between eating or going hungry.
As one recipient summed it up: “They talk about policy, but for me, this grant means I can eat for three weeks instead of two. That’s what matters.”
FAQs
When will the R348 SRD grant be paid in April 2025?
Payments will be made from April 8 to April 15, based on ID numbers.
How do I apply for the R348 grant?
You can apply online at www.sassa.gov.za, via WhatsApp, or USSD.
What happens if I miss my reconfirmation deadline?
You may experience delays or a suspension in your grant payments.
Can I collect my grant at retail stores?
Yes, you can collect it at Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, and others.
What is the income threshold for the R348 grant?
Your total monthly income must be less than R624 to qualify.
