In January 2025, the Pretoria High Court ruled that certain regulations governing South Africa’s Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant were unconstitutional.
This landmark decision mandates significant enhancements to the grant, aiming to provide more substantial support to unemployed South Africans.
What is the SRD Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, introduced in 2020, offers temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals without other income sources.
Initially set at R350 per month, the grant was increased to R370 in April 2024. However, rising living costs highlighted the need for further adjustments.
Key Aspects of the Court’s Ruling
The court’s decision encompasses several pivotal changes:
- Grant Amount Increase: The existing R370 grant is deemed insufficient. The court orders an increase, aligning with inflation and current living expenses.
- Higher Income Threshold: The monthly income threshold for eligibility, previously set at R624, will be raised. This adjustment allows more individuals to qualify for the grant.
- In-Person Applications: To enhance accessibility, in-person applications at SASSA offices will be introduced, supplementing the existing online application process.
- Revised Income Definition: Occasional once-off payments, such as family support, will no longer disqualify applicants, ensuring a fairer assessment of eligibility.
Projected Grant Increase
While the court did not specify an exact amount, experts anticipate the SRD grant could rise to between R420 and R500 per month.
This projection depends on inflation rates and financial allocations by the South African Treasury. An official announcement is expected before May 2025.
Implementation Timeline
The South African government has until May 2025 to implement these changes. Beneficiaries should anticipate the grant increase and revised application procedures to take effect by June 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To qualify for the SRD grant in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees.
- Be unemployed and not receiving any other form of income above the new threshold.
- Not be receiving UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (excluding child support grants).
- Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Reside in South Africa.
Application Process Post-Ruling
Before the Court Ruling:
- Applications were exclusively online via the SASSA Website or SRD Portal.
- Applicants provided their South African ID, mobile number, and bank details for income verification.
After the Court Ruling:
- In-person applications at SASSA offices will be available, improving accessibility.
- The raised income threshold will allow more individuals to qualify.
- Occasional once-off payments will no longer disqualify applicants.
Beneficiaries are advised to regularly check SASSA updates for the latest information on application procedures.
Note: The information provided is based on the latest available data as of April 2025. Beneficiaries should stay informed through official SASSA communications for any updates.
FAQs
How much will the SRD grant increase to?
Experts predict the grant could rise to between R420 and R500 per month, depending on inflation and financial allocations.
Who qualifies for the SRD grant in 2025?
Eligibility includes South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees aged 18-59 who are unemployed and meet the income threshold.
When will the new SRD grant amount be effective?
The grant increase is expected to take effect by June 2025, following government implementation of the court’s directives by May 2025.