The R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has become a lifeline for thousands of unemployed South Africans aged 18 to 59. With the cost of living constantly on the rise, this grant offers a monthly payment of R370 to those without income or support. Managed by SASSA, the SRD grant is aimed at helping people facing tough financial times, offering temporary but essential relief.
If you’re struggling, this guide will walk you through who qualifies, how to apply, when payments are made, and how to track your application status.
Overview
This grant isnโt your standard long-term social assistance. Itโs short-term relief designed to help South Africans who have no other source of income and arenโt receiving any social grants or unemployment benefits.
Hereโs a quick breakdown:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Grant Name | R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant |
Eligibility | SA citizens, permanent residents, or refugees (18โ59) |
Payment Methods | Bank deposit, Post Office, or retail partners |
Application Method | Online via SASSA SRD portal |
Payment Dates (Apr) | 25th โ 31st April 2025 |
Status Check Tools | Online, WhatsApp, USSD |
Official Website | srd.sassa.gov.za |
Purpose
This grant isnโt meant to be permanent. It was introduced to provide temporary relief to people hit hard by economic hardships. Think of it like a safety net for anyone whoโs lost income and doesnโt qualify for other support.
Unlike other grants like old age or disability grants, the SRD R370 is reviewed frequently and may change depending on the state of the economy or national emergencies.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must meet these conditions:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Live in South Africa
- Be between 18 and 59 years old
- Have no employment or income
- Not receive any other SASSA grant
- Not be receiving UIF or NSFAS support
- Not be living in a government-funded institution
If that sounds like your situation, then youโre likely eligible to apply.
Application
The application is entirely digital and can be done in minutes if youโve got your details ready.
Step 1
Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za and click โApply Nowโ
Step 2
Input your ID number, name, surname, and cellphone number (must be registered in your name)
Step 3
Choose between a direct bank deposit, Post Office, or stores like Pick n Pay, Boxer, and Checkers
Step 4
Read and agree to the consent form, then hit submit
Step 5
Youโll get an SMS with a reference number to track your status
Status
To check your application or payment status:
- Online: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- WhatsApp: Message 082 046 8553 with the word โStatusโ
- USSD: Dial 1347737# from your cellphone
This helps you stay updated and avoid missing out on payment days.
Appeals
If your application is rejected, donโt panicโyou can appeal.
Hereโs how:
- Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeal
- Enter your ID and phone number
- Pick a reason for appeal
- Submit and wait for a review (it takes about 60 days)
If successful, your payment will be reinstated with back pay from the original date of application.
Dates
For April 2025, these are the expected payment dates:
- 25 April 2025
- 26 April 2025
- 27 April 2025
- 28 April 2025
- 29 April 2025
- 30 April 2025
- 31 April 2025
Keep in mind, payments are done in batches. You might not get yours on the first day of the window. Always check your status first before heading out to collect.
The R370 SRD grant might be temporary, but for many, itโs a real game-changer. If youโre eligible, applying is simple and takes just a few minutes online. And once approved, staying up-to-date with your application or payment schedule is just as easy. So, if youโre in need, donโt waitโget started today.
FAQs
Who can apply for the R370 grant?
Unemployed SA citizens aged 18โ59 with no other income.
How do I apply for the SRD grant?
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za and follow the online steps.
When will I get my April payment?
Between 25 and 31 April 2025, in batches.
Can I choose how I get paid?
Yes, pick bank, Post Office, or retail store options.
What if my application is rejected?
Appeal online within 30 days of being declined.