The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed that the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for March 2025 will be paid earlier than expected, between March 24 and March 29, 2025. This change aims to ensure that millions of beneficiaries receive their funds on time, reducing financial stress for those in need.
The SRD grant, which increased from R350 to R370 per month in April 2024, continues to provide crucial financial support to unemployed and low-income South Africans. To ensure a smooth payment process, beneficiaries must check their status, update their banking details, and be aware of the payment methods available.
Overview
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was introduced as a temporary measure to assist unemployed South Africans facing economic hardship. It has since been extended to continue supporting those without a stable source of income.
Payment Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | R370 per month |
| Payment Dates | March 24 – March 29, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Unemployed, income below R624/month, no other grants received |
| Application Methods | Online, WhatsApp, USSD, Call Center |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer, Pick n Pay, Boxer, Post Office |
| Official Source | SASSA Website |
Payment Early
SASSA has decided to release payments earlier in March to avoid delays and prevent system overloads as April’s payment cycle begins.
March is a financially demanding month for many South Africans due to rising household expenses, back-to-school costs, and inflation. The early release ensures that recipients can manage these expenses without delays.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the R370 SRD grant, applicants must meet specific requirements.
Who Can Apply?
- Age: Must be between 18 and 59 years old
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or special permit holder
- Income Limit: Must earn less than R624 per month
- Employment Status: Must be unemployed and not receiving any other government grants such as UIF, disability grants, or NSFAS
- Bank Verification: Banking details must match the applicant’s registered ID number
How to Apply
If you have not yet applied, follow these steps to submit your application:
Apply Online
- Visit the SASSA SRD website
- Choose your citizenship status
- Enter your ID number, phone number, and banking details
- Accept the terms and conditions
- Submit your application
Apply via WhatsApp
- Save the SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553
- Send a message: “Apply for SRD”
- Follow the instructions to complete your application
Apply via USSD (For Basic Phones)
- Dial 120*3210# or 120*69277#
- Follow the prompts to submit your application
Apply via SASSA Call Center
- Call 0800 60 10 11
- Speak with a representative to complete your application
How to Check
Once your application is submitted, you should regularly check your grant status to avoid delays.
Check Online
- Visit srd.sassa.gov.za
- Enter your ID number and registered phone number
- Click Submit to view your application status
Check via WhatsApp
- Send “Status” to 082 046 8553
- Receive real-time updates on your application
Check via USSD (For Non-Smartphones)
- Dial 120*3210# or 120*69277#
- Follow the prompts to check your status
Call the SASSA Help Center
- Dial 0800 60 10 11
- Speak to a SASSA representative for assistance
Payment Methods
Beneficiaries can receive their R370 grant through various payment methods.
Payment Options
- Bank Deposit – Funds are transferred directly into the recipient’s bank account
- Retailer Cash Collection – Pick up cash from Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, or USave
- Post Office Withdrawals – Funds can be collected at Post Office branches
Payment Schedule
- Payments will be made between March 24 and March 29, 2025
It is important to ensure your banking details are correct to avoid delays in receiving your payment.
FAQs
When will the March 2025 SRD grant be paid?
Payments will be made early between March 24 and March 29, 2025.
Who qualifies for the R370 SRD grant?
Unemployed South Africans earning less than R624 per month.
How can I check my SRD grant status?
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za, use WhatsApp, USSD, or call 0800 60 10 11.
What payment methods are available?
Bank deposit, cash collection at retailers, and Post Office withdrawals.
How do I update my banking details for SASSA?
Log into srd.sassa.gov.za and submit your new banking details.
