Many South Africans rely on the SASSA SRD R370 grant to survive during tough times. Understanding how long you can receive this financial support is crucial for planning your future. The SRD grant will continue until March 2026, providing temporary relief to millions of beneficiaries.
Current Duration of SASSA SRD R370 Grant
The Social Relief of Distress grant is temporary relief that’s currently extended through March 2026. This means beneficiaries can receive the R370 monthly payment until that date. According to budget documents released by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwane, R35.2-billion has been earmarked to continue the SRD grant until 31 March 2026.
The government will make decisions near March 2026 about whether to continue the grant further or replace it with another support program. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwane stated that the Covid-19 SRD grant will be used as a basis for the introduction of a sustainable form of income support for unemployed people.
No More Monthly Reapplication Requirements
Great news for beneficiaries! Previously, SASSA required SRD R370 grant applicants to reapply or reconfirm their eligibility every three months. However, after the April 2024 update, this is no longer necessary.
SASSA explained that individuals that submitted valid applications from previous months are automatically considered for subsequent monthly SRD grant payments and there is no need for clients to re-apply each month. This change makes it much easier for beneficiaries to continue receiving their monthly payments.
How SASSA Continues Your Grant
SASSA now automatically reviews your eligibility monthly using existing information, and also by regularly assessing your latest financial situation. This means once you’re approved, you don’t need to stress about reapplying every few months.
However, you must ensure your details remain current. Make sure your phone number, banking information, and income details are always up to date to avoid payment delays.
What Happens After March 2026?
The government is planning potential extensions, with provincial allocations adjusted for the fiscal years 2026/27 and 2027/28. There may need to be a material increase in the number of SRD grant recipients, with less stringent criteria applied based on recent court rulings.
The total cost could increase significantly. Increasing the number of recipients implies higher spending of more than R30-billion a year if implemented in future years.
Who Can Receive the Grant for the Full Period?
To receive the SRD R370 grant for the maximum period until March 2026, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, asylum seeker, or special permit holder
- Be between 18 and 59 years old
- Be unemployed with no income source
- Not receive any other social grants or UIF benefits
- Continue meeting eligibility requirements monthly
Monthly Payment Schedule
The SRD grant doesn’t follow the same fixed schedule as other SASSA grants. Instead, payments are processed during the last week of each month. Most beneficiaries receive their R370 after the second week of each month.
You should check your SRD status regularly to see your specific payment date for each month. Payment dates can vary for different beneficiaries.
Important Changes to Remember
Starting April 2024, the SRD grant increased from R350 to R370 to help South Africans cope with rising living costs. The grant amount will remain at R370 per month until March 2026.
The automatic renewal system means you don’t need to worry about missing application deadlines. Your grant will continue as long as you remain eligible and your details are current.
How to Check Your Grant Status
You can verify your SRD grant status through several methods:
- Online status check using your ID number and registered phone number
- WhatsApp by messaging 082 046 8553
- USSD code *120*3210#
- Phone call to 0800 60 10 11
- Visit your nearest SASSA office
What to Do If Your Grant Gets Declined
If your monthly payment gets declined, don’t panic. If you see a “Period Declined” status check response when you check SRD application status, this means that your payment for this month has been declined, and you will receive your payment from the next month.
You can submit a reconsideration request if you believe the decline was incorrect. The appeal process is straightforward and can be done online.
Planning Your Finances
Since the grant continues until March 2026, you can plan your monthly budget knowing you’ll receive R370 each month. However, remember this is temporary relief, so consider:
- Looking for job opportunities
- Upgrading your skills through training programs
- Exploring other income sources
- Saving small amounts when possible
FAQs About Receiving SASSA SRD R370 Grant
How long can I receive the SASSA SRD R370 grant?
You can receive the grant until March 2026, provided you continue meeting the eligibility requirements each month.
Do I need to reapply every month?
No, you don’t need to reapply monthly. SASSA automatically reviews your eligibility and processes payments if you still qualify.
What happens if I start working while receiving the grant?
You must inform SASSA about any income changes. If you earn more than R624 per month, you’ll no longer qualify for the grant.
Can the grant be extended beyond March 2026?
The government will decide closer to March 2026 whether to extend the grant or introduce a new support program.
How much will I receive per month?
The current amount is R370 per month, which increased from R350 in April 2024.
What if I missed a few months of payments?
You can check your status online to see which months were approved. If you missed legitimate payments, contact SASSA directly.
Can I receive the grant while studying?
You can receive the grant while studying, but you cannot receive NSFAS funding or any other government financial support at the same time.
What documents do I need to keep updated?
Keep your phone number, banking details, and address information current with SASSA to avoid payment delays.
Conclusion
The SASSA SRD R370 grant provides crucial financial support to millions of South Africans until March 2026. With the removal of monthly reapplication requirements, beneficiaries can focus on improving their situations while receiving consistent monthly support. Remember to keep your details updated and regularly check your payment status to ensure you receive your R370 each month during this maximum period.
