In 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to provide financial relief through the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, now increased to R370 per month.
This grant is available to asylum seekers and special permit holders who are struggling financially. If you fall into this category, this guide will help you know the eligibility requirements, application process, payment methods, and key details needed to secure your grant.
Eligibility
To qualify for the R370 SRD grant, asylum seekers and special permit holders must meet specific criteria:
- Must be between 18 and 60 years old.
- Must have no source of income or receive other government financial aid, such as UIF or other SASSA grants.
- Must be an asylum seeker or hold a special permit issued by South Africa.
- Must be residing in South Africa with valid documentation.
Refugees who have obtained permanent residency may qualify for other SASSA grants instead of the SRD grant.
Application
Applying for the SRD R370 grant is simple and can be completed online. Follow these steps:
- Visit the SASSA SRD Website
- Go to srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Select the Asylum Seeker Option
- Scroll down and click on the “Asylum Seeker/Special Permit Holder” option.
- Enter Your Mobile Number
- Provide an active mobile number and click “Send SMS.”
- Verify Your Identity
- Enter the One-Time Pin (OTP) sent to your phone.
- Complete the Application
- Fill in your personal details and upload asylum documentation.
- Submit and Wait for Approval
- Processing may take a few weeks, and you will receive an SMS when your application is approved.
Status
Applicants can check their SRD grant status through the following methods:
Online Status Check
- Visit srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status.
- Enter your Application ID and registered mobile number.
- Click Submit to view the status.
WhatsApp Status Check
- Send a message to 0600 123 456.
- Provide your ID number when prompted.
- Receive real-time updates on the application status.
If the status shows “Pending”, the application is still under review.
Payments
Once approved, recipients will receive R370 per month. Payments can be collected through:
Bank Transfer
- If banking details were provided, the grant will be deposited directly into the account.
- Ensure the bank information is correct to avoid delays.
Cash Collection at Retailers
- If no bank account is available, payments can be collected at:
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Checkers
- Shoprite
- Usave
- OK Foods
- Spar
To collect the payment, recipients must bring their registered mobile phone and identification. A confirmation SMS will be sent when the money is available.
Payment Dates
SASSA disburses the SRD R370 grant at the end of each month. Here are the upcoming payment dates:
| Month | Payment Period |
|---|---|
| January | 25th – 31st |
| February | 25th – 29th |
| March | 25th – 31st |
| April | 25th – 30th |
The R370 SRD grant provides essential financial assistance to asylum seekers and special permit holders in South Africa. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the correct application steps, recipients can access this support without difficulty.
Checking application status regularly and keeping track of payment dates can help avoid delays in receiving the grant.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the R370 SRD grant?
Asylum seekers and special permit holders aged 18-60 with no income.
How do I apply for the R370 SRD grant?
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za, enter your details, and submit your application.
How can I check my SRD application status?
Check online at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status or via WhatsApp (0600 123 456).
Where can I collect my SRD payment if I have no bank account?
At Pick n Pay, Boxer, Checkers, Shoprite, Usave, OK Foods, or Spar.
When will I receive my R370 SRD payment?
At the end of each month, typically between the 25th and 31st.
