Social Relief of Distress Grant

The SASSA SRD grant provides R350 per month to unemployed South Africans in need.

What is the Social Relief of Distress Grant?

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is a temporary assistance programme by SASSA. It pays R350 per month to eligible South Africans who are unemployed and have no other source of income.

Who Qualifies for Social Relief of Distress?

  • South African citizens or permanent residents
  • Between 18 and 60 years old
  • Unemployed with no income
  • Not receiving any other social grant or UIF
  • Not a resident in a government-funded institution
R350

Per month

Free

To apply

18–60

Age range

How to Apply

Apply for Social Relief of Distress

There are three free ways to apply for the SRD grant.

Apply Online

The quickest way to apply for Social Relief of Distress.

1

Go to srd.sassa.gov.za

Open srd.sassa.gov.za — the official SRD application website.

2

Enter your details

Provide your 13-digit SA ID number, cellphone number, and banking details.

3

Submit and wait

Review your details and submit. SASSA will process your application and notify you by SMS.

Apply via WhatsApp

Send "Hi" to SASSA's official SRD WhatsApp number.

Apply via USSD

Dial *134*7737# from any cellphone. No data needed.

 SRD Grant Safety

  • Applying for Social Relief of Distress is FREE. Never pay anyone.
  • Only use official SASSA channelssrd.sassa.gov.za, WhatsApp 082 046 8553, or USSD *134*7737#.
  • Never share your PIN or banking details with strangers.

Check Your SRD Status

After applying for Social Relief of Distress, check your application status online.

1

Go to srd.sassa.gov.za

Visit srd.sassa.gov.za and select "Check Status".

2

Enter your ID and phone number

Use the same details you used when you applied.

3

View your result

Your status will show as Approved, Pending, or Declined. Learn what each status means.

Frequently Asked Questions About SRD

What does Social Relief of Distress mean?

Social Relief of Distress (SRD) is a temporary grant provided by SASSA to people in urgent need. It currently pays R350 per month to eligible unemployed South Africans.

How long does the SRD grant last?

The SRD grant is reviewed periodically by the government. It has been extended multiple times since it was introduced. SASSA announces any changes to the programme through official channels.

Can I apply for SRD if I receive another grant?

No. You cannot receive the SRD grant if you are already receiving any other SASSA social grant or UIF payments.

What if my SRD application is declined?

You can appeal the decision through the official SRD appeals portal, or reapply with updated information.

Call SASSA

0800 60 10 11

Toll-free, Mon–Fri 8am–4pm

All SASSA Grants

Learn about all 7 SASSA grant types.

View All Grants

Full Application Guide

Detailed guide for all grant types.

How to Apply

Never Miss a SASSA Payment Date

Get payment reminders, grant news and application help on WhatsApp for R5/month.

R5/month

Join the Waitlist

Join the Waitlist

Our WhatsApp information service is launching soon. Leave your number and we'll let you know as soon as it's live.

R5/month when it launches. No commitment until then.