The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant is one of South Africa’s key social support measures aimed at assisting vulnerable individuals who have little or no income. Originally introduced during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRD Grant continues to provide a lifeline for unemployed people who do not receive any other social grant or income support.
What Is the SRD Grant?
The SRD Grant is a temporary social assistance payment provided monthly to qualifying South African residents. It was first introduced as an emergency relief measure during the COVID-19 pandemic to support those who were disproportionately affected by lockdowns and economic disruptions. While it began as a short-term intervention, ongoing extensions have kept it in force well beyond its initial end date.
Beneficiaries who qualify receive a fixed amount each month. The amount was initially set at R350 per month, but was increased to R370 in April 2024 to help cope with rising living costs and inflation.
Extension Through 2026 and Beyond
In the South African government’s 2025 Budget and Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), it was announced that the SRD Grant would be extended until at least March 2026. This extension was part of a broader social protection budget, with R35.2 billion allocated to continue the R370 monthly payments and support programme administration.
However, even more recent developments have seen the grant’s lifespan extended again. In November 2025, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced another one-year extension, pushing the SRD Grant provision through March 2027. This further extension comes as the government continues to review long-term social safety net strategies and considers linking support measures to employment and skills programmes for the working-age population.
Who Qualifies for the Grant?
To qualify for the SRD Grant, applicants must:
Be South African citizens, permanent residents, or asylum seekers.
Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
Have no other source of income or social grant support.
Be unemployed or unable to support themselves financially.
If a beneficiary is already receiving another social grant (like an Old Age or Disability Grant), they typically do not qualify for SRD support.
How Long Can You Receive It?
While the grant is technically a temporary benefit, provisions for extensions mean that eligible recipients can continue to receive it each month as long as the grant is active and they remain eligible.
The government’s current policy framework allows periodic reviews and extensions — a shift away from the original “one-off short-term” model to a more ongoing safety net for those in economic distress.
How to Apply and Check Status
Applicants can apply for the SRD Grant via the official online portal or at their nearest South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office. Required documents include a valid ID and proof of income status. Once applied, beneficiaries can check the status of their application online. The status will show whether it is approved, pending, or declined. If approved, payment details and dates are provided so recipients know when to collect or expect their funds.
Also Read: January 2026 SASSA Old-Age Grants: Payment Dates, Amounts & New Year Relief