The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant has officially increased from R350 to R500 per month starting May 2025. This 42.8% bump comes after a Constitutional Court ruling declared the old amount insufficient for basic living standards.
With the cost of living rising and millions relying on this lifeline, the change couldn’t come at a better time.
Here’s what the new SRD structure looks like, who qualifies, and how to make sure you get your higher payout.
Increase
This increase didn’t happen randomly. The Constitutional Court ruled that the previous R350 grant no longer aligned with South Africa’s poverty thresholds.
After months of legal pressure from civil rights groups, the government was ordered to review and raise the payout.
Main Reasons
- Soaring food and transport costs
- Worsening inflation
- Basic needs not met under R350
- No previous inflation adjustment since the grant started
- Public pressure and court advocacy
Structure
The new R500 SRD Grant applies to all qualifying groups. Whether you’re a student, single mother, or job seeker, the increase is uniform across the board.
Payment Table
| Category | Previous Amount (R) | New Amount (R) | Effective From |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRD (Unemployed) | 350 | 500 | May 2025 |
| SRD (Single Mothers) | 350 | 500 | May 2025 |
| SRD (Students) | 350 | 500 | May 2025 |
| SRD (Job Seekers) | 350 | 500 | May 2025 |
This revision also increases the government’s monthly allocation for SRD from R3.5 billion to R5.1 billion.
Ruling
Let’s break down what the Constitutional Court actually said:
| Court Decision Point | Impact |
|---|---|
| Declared R350 grant unconstitutional | Forced government to raise the SRD amount |
| Set national minimum standard | New R500 amount aligns with poverty guidelines |
| Ordered DSD to communicate publicly | All changes must be shared via official channels |
| Deadline for implementation | May 2025 for all active and new beneficiaries |
The new amount is effective automatically—no need to reapply unless your info has changed.
Eligibility
Even though the amount has gone up, the rules to qualify haven’t changed much. Here’s a quick rundown of who can apply.
You qualify if:
- You’re a South African citizen, permanent resident, or valid refugee
- Aged 18 to 59
- Not receiving UIF, NSFAS, or any other SASSA grant
- You are unemployed and earning below the means test threshold
- You can provide a valid cellphone number and bank details
Required Documents:
- South African ID or asylum permit
- Proof of residence
- Cellphone number (for OTP confirmation)
- Bank account for direct payments
If you’ve applied before but were rejected or your situation has changed, you should reapply.
Apply
Applying or updating your SRD application is done online. It’s quick and mobile-friendly.
Steps
- Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Select “Apply” or “Update Existing Application”
- Enter your ID number and mobile number
- Follow prompts to submit or edit info
- Upload documents if required
- Wait for approval via SMS
If your application was previously declined, a new submission under the updated grant may be reconsidered.
Payments
The grant will be paid monthly just like before, through bank transfer, Post Office, or mobile money services in rural areas.
Payment Schedule
| Month | Estimated Payment Window |
|---|---|
| May 2025 | 15 – 25 May 2025 |
| June 2025 | 15 – 23 June 2025 |
| July 2025 | 15 – 24 July 2025 |
| August 2025 | 16 – 26 August 2025 |
| September | 15 – 25 September 2025 |
| October | 17 – 27 October 2025 |
| November | 14 – 24 November 2025 |
| December | 12 – 22 December 2025 |
You can track your payment date on the official SASSA site each month.
FAQs
What is the new SRD grant amount?
It’s now R500 per month, up from R350.
Do I need to reapply for SRD?
Only if your personal or income details have changed.
When does the new amount start?
Payments begin in May 2025.
Where do I apply for the SRD grant?
At https://srd.sassa.gov.za online.
How will I receive the payment?
Through bank, Post Office, or mobile money services.
