The year 2025 brings a ray of hope for millions of South Africans. The Department of Social Development has proposed significant changes to the application process for the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. The move comes after criticism from various social organizations, applicants and legal experts since 2020. They said the current system is too strict and complicated, especially for those who are already struggling financially.
The grant, which was first launched as a temporary relief scheme during the COVID-19 pandemic, has now taken the form of permanent support due to the persistent economic crisis in the country. The unemployment rate is still very high and millions of families are living below the poverty line. In such a situation, this grant has become a lifeline for them.
What is going to change in the application process of the SRD grant?
Currently, when someone applies for the R370 grant, they are asked how they support themselves. Have they received any help from family or friends? Have they done any odd jobs recently? Even one-off gifts or receipts are considered ‘income,’ leading to thousands of applications being rejected.
In 2024, several advocacy groups, such as the Institute for Economic Justice and the #PayTheGrants campaign, took the issue to court. They argued that the rules for defining ‘income’ were too broad and penalized poor people. In January 2025, the High Court declared these rules unconstitutional and ordered the department to change them.
A glimpse of the proposed new system
Under the new proposal, applicants will no longer need to explain how they make ends meet. Instead, SASSA will automatically check their bank accounts monthly to assess their income.
Now the application form will only ask for basic information like name, identification number (ID), contact details and permission to check bank data. This will not only make applying easier but will also make the system transparent.
Comparison of the current and proposed system
| Element | Current Process | Proposed Process |
|---|---|---|
| Income Questions | Required and detailed | Will be completely removed |
| Temporary Financial Support | Considered disqualifying | Will no longer affect application outcome |
| Monthly Verification | Self-reported income plus bank checks | Based solely on automated bank checks |
| Complexity | High – many applicants get confused | Low – simpler and user-friendly design |
How will the grant be based on monthly income?
Although the income question will be removed from the application form, the SRD grant will still be “means-tested,” meaning if your monthly income is more than R625, you will not be eligible for the grant for that month. SASSA will check your bank account every month to determine if your income is within the limit.
But one relief is that this check is repeated every month. Meaning if you get a little more support one month and your application is rejected, you may be eligible for the grant again if your income is less the next month.
What are the benefits of the new system?
This proposed change will bring a number of benefits to applicants:
- Fewer errors: The removal of complex income questions will result in fewer errors in the application.
- Speeding up the process: A simpler application process will also allow SASSA to review applications faster.
- Greater access: People with internet or literacy problems will now find it easier to fill out the form.
- Fewer rejections: People who previously had their applications rejected for minor benefits will now be eligible.
What can the public do?
As the changes are still at the draft stage, the Department of Social Development has asked the public for suggestions and feedback. This is an important opportunity, as the final decision will be based on people’s feedback.
You can:
- Visit the official website dsd.gov.za.
- Dead or download a draft of the proposed changes.
- Submit your feedback via email or online.
- Deadline: Before 14 April 2025.
Conclusion: Was this change really necessary?
The R370 SRD grant is a solace for millions of poor and unemployed South Africans. But if the application process itself is difficult, the purpose of the aid is not fulfilled. The proposal to remove income questions is a bold step in the right direction. This makes the process more fair, transparent and humane.
It is now important that citizens come forward, give their opinion on this proposal and ensure that the system is built for those who need it the most.
FAQs
Q. What is changing in the R370 SRD Grant application process?
A. The proposed changes will remove income-related questions and simplify the form to reduce confusion and rejections.
Q. Will SASSA still check my income?
A. Yes, SASSA will verify income using monthly automated bank checks instead of relying on applicant answers.
Q. Can I still get the grant if I receive once-off support from family?
A. Yes, occasional financial help from family or friends will no longer disqualify you.
Q. What is the income limit to qualify for the SRD grant?
A. Applicants must earn less than R625 per month to be eligible.
Q. When will the changes be implemented?
A. The proposal is still under review. Public comments can be submitted until April 14, 2025, before final approval.
