On January 24, 2025, a historic decision by the Pretoria High Court ruled that several regulations governing the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant were unconstitutional.
This ruling promises an increase in the SRD grant, an adjustment to the eligibility criteria, and improved access to applications for those in need.
This decision is a major victory for unemployed and financially vulnerable South Africans, many of whom rely on the SRD grant for their survival. This article breaks down the SRD grant increase, changes to eligibility, and how beneficiaries can proceed.
What the Court’s Decision Means for SRD Grant Beneficiaries
The Pretoria High Court’s decision is a major step forward for millions of South Africans who rely on the SRD grant.
As part of the ruling, the grant amount will be increased, the income threshold for eligibility will be raised, and accessibility to the application process will be expanded.
Beneficiaries should stay informed and prepare for the changes ahead. It is recommended to regularly check the official SASSA website for the latest updates.
Key Steps to Take Now
- Monitor the SASSA website for announcements regarding the changes.
- Prepare for the introduction of in-person applications at SASSA offices.
- Expect the SRD grant increase to be implemented before mid-2025.
For the latest updates, visit the official SASSA website.
Breakdown of the SRD Grant Increase
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Payment Amount | R370 per month (previously R350) |
| Proposed Increase | Expected to rise above R370 due to inflation |
| Income Threshold | R624 per month (subject to increase) |
| Application Process | Current: Online applications only, Future: In-person applications allowed |
| Court Deadline | Government must implement changes by May 2025 |
| Official Resources | SASSA Official Website |
What Is the SRD Grant?
Introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals who have no other source of income.
- Initial Amount: The grant was originally set at R350 per month, then increased to R370 in April 2024.
- Reason for Change: However, with inflation and rising living costs, this amount has become insufficient, prompting legal action to demand a larger increase.
The court ruling acknowledged that the current SRD regulations were flawed, as they excluded many needy applicants and were out of touch with inflation, violating the constitutional right to social assistance.
Key Directives in the Court’s Ruling
The Pretoria High Court made four significant rulings that directly impact the SRD grant:
1. Increase in SRD Grant Amount
The court ruled that the R370 amount is insufficient and ordered the government to develop a plan to increase the grant progressively based on inflation and living costs.
2. Higher Income Threshold
The court found that the current income threshold of R624 per month is too low, excluding many eligible individuals. The government is required to raise this threshold so that more unemployed people can qualify for the grant.
3. In-Person Applications at SASSA Offices
Previously, applications were only accepted online, which excluded millions without internet access. The court ordered SASSA to allow in-person applications at SASSA offices to improve accessibility.
4. Fairer Definition of Income
The court ruled that occasional payments (e.g., family support or small gifts) should not be considered income, thus ensuring that applicants are not unfairly disqualified based on small, one-off deposits.
Expected Increase in SRD Grant
The court did not specify the exact increase in the SRD grant, but several sources suggest the following estimates:
- The grant is expected to rise above R370, considering the impact of inflation and living costs.
- It is speculated that the new grant amount could be in the range of R420 to R500 per month.
- The Treasury must allocate funds, and an official decision will be made by May 2025. Beneficiaries should continue to monitor SASSA announcements for official updates.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
The court has given the government until May 2025 to implement the changes. The SRD grant increase could be rolled out as early as June 2025, subject to government approval.
The new eligibility rules and in-person application options are expected to be introduced in the coming months.
Eligibility Criteria for the SRD Grant in 2025
To qualify for the SRD grant in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Be unemployed and not receiving any other income above the new income threshold.
- Not be receiving UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (excluding child support grants).
- Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Reside in South Africa.
Importantly, the income threshold will increase, meaning that more people will be eligible than before.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Current Application Process (Before the Changes)
- Online applications through the SASSA website or SRD portal.
- Provide ID and Mobile Number: Enter your South African ID and registered mobile number.
- Bank Details: SASSA will verify your income status through your bank account.
New Application Process (After the Court Ruling)
- In-person applications will be introduced at SASSA offices.
- Fewer disqualifications: Small, one-off deposits (such as family support or gifts) will no longer count as income.
- Income threshold increase: More people will qualify for the SRD grant due to the higher income limit.
Beneficiaries are advised to regularly check for updates on the SASSA website.
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling marks a significant victory for millions of South Africans who depend on the SRD grant.
The increase in grant amounts, the higher income threshold, and the introduction of in-person applications will provide much-needed relief to the country’s most vulnerable individuals.
Beneficiaries should stay informed and monitor the official SASSA website for updates regarding the new eligibility and application process.
FAQs
When will the SRD grant increase take effect?
The SRD grant increase is expected to be implemented by June 2025, subject to government approval.
How can I apply for the SRD grant?
You can apply online through the SASSA website, or in-person at SASSA offices once the changes are implemented.
Who will qualify for the SRD grant in 2025?
Applicants must be unemployed, a South African citizen, and meet the updated income threshold.