On January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court of South Africa delivered a historic verdict, declaring some of the rules related to the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant under SASSA unconstitutional and invalid. This decision has cleared the way for increasing the amount of the SRD grant, changing eligibility criteria, and simplifying the application process.
This decision is a big win for millions of unemployed and financially weak South Africans who depend on this grant to meet their daily needs.
What is the SRD Grant?
The SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant was introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the aim of providing temporary financial assistance to those who have no permanent income.
- Amount at start: R350 per month
- Increase in 2024: R370 per month
Now: This amount has become inadequate due to rising inflation and cost of living, due to which the matter reached the court.
What did the court decide?
The Pretoria High Court has given four important directions to the government:
- Increase in SRD amount
The court said that the current amount of R370 is inadequate.
The government has to plan to gradually increase this amount, keeping in mind inflation and the cost of living.
- Increase in income limit
Currently, the income limit for eligibility is R624 per month, which the court said is too low.
The government was directed to increase this limit so that more people can take advantage of this grant.
- Facility of physical application at SASSA offices
Till now only online applications were being accepted, due to which those who do not have internet facility were suffering.
The court ordered that SASSA must also facilitate in-person applications at its offices.
- Changes in the definition of income
The court also clarified that occasional small gifts or transfers from family will not be considered “income”.
Previously, many people were disqualified simply because they received a one-time small transfer into their account.
What’s next?
- The government must implement these changes by May 2025.
- Timelines for potential changes:
- Increase in SRD amount: May come into effect by June 2025.
- New eligibility conditions and physical application process: Likely to begin in the next few months.
What will be the potential new SRD grant amount?
The court has not given a fixed amount, but estimates are:
- The new amount could be between R420 and R500 per month.
- The final decision will depend on the government budget (Treasury).
What will be the changes to the application process?
| Current Process | New Process After Decision |
|---|---|
| Only online application | Application possible by visiting SASSA offices |
| ID and mobile number required | Still required, but the application process will be easier |
| Income verification through bank details | Small transfers will not be considered as income |
Who will be eligible for the SRD grant in 2025?
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be unemployed and earning below the new income threshold.
- Not receiving UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (excluding child support).
- Be between 18 and 59 years of age.
- I am living in South Africa.
Note: With the increase in income threshold, more people than before can now be covered.
What should you do now?
- Keep checking the SASSA website for regular updates.
- Have the necessary documents ready, such as ID, bank details, and mobile number.
- Be ready to apply at SASSA offices (will be possible after May 2025).
- If you are already a beneficiary, you may not need to apply again, but you may need to update your details.
Conclusion
The court’s decision regarding the increase and reforms in the SASSA SRD grant is a big step that will bring relief to millions of needy people. This is a new hope for the people suffering from rising inflation and unemployment.
FAQs
Q1. When will the SRD grant increase?
A1. The government has to decide on the new amount by May 2025. It could be implemented by June 2025.
Q2. What will the new amount be?
A2. There is no official confirmation yet, but it is estimated to be between R420 and R500.
Q3. If I am already receiving the SRD grant, will I have to reapply?
A3. Probably not. But I may have to update my details once the new rules come into effect.
Q4. What if I received a small transfer into my account and I was disqualified?
A4. The court has decided that such small transfers are not considered income. SASSA will now change its eligibility conditions to reflect this.
Q5. Can I go to a SASSA office and apply now?
A5. Not yet. The government has to introduce this facility by May 2025.
Q6. Will existing beneficiaries automatically receive the new amount?
A6. Yes, if you are eligible and already receiving the grant, the new amount will start coming automatically.
Related posts:
SASSA SRD Grant Ends After March 2025? The Facts and Speculations Explained
SASSA’s Major Festival Relief: Early Payments and New Grants Update
SASSA 2025 Grant Applications: How to Check Registration and Submit Correctly!
High Demand for SRD Grants – SASSA Reports 80,000 Monthly Applications!
SASSA R2,090 Grant Update 2025: Are You Eligible to Get it? Check Payment Dates Now!
SASSA Child Grant Rises to R560 – Check If Your Child Qualifies Now!
SASSA Grant Recipients Get Double Payments in April 2025 – Check New Payment Amount!
SASSA SRD R370 Grant April 2025, Check Payment Dates and Status
SASSA SRD Grant in April 2025: How to Claim? Check Eligibility
SASSA SRD R370 Grant For April 2025: Check Payout Dates And Eligibility Criteria!
SASSA Grant Theft, Follow These Steps to Resolve it
$2,102 SASSA R550 Grant Payment in 2025 – Find Out If You Qualify and When It’s Coming
