The Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns meant that millions of unemployed individuals had no way to make money to feed themselves and their families. This saw the introduction of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, commonly known as the R350 grant.
The grant has been distributed to millions of beneficiaries since its inception in May 2021. However, the way the grant has been distributed to beneficiaries has evolved to make it easier for them to access their money. This is to ensure that grant recipients receive their grant as quickly and conveniently as possible.
R350 Grant Payment
Should you not have a bank account, you can also receive your R350 grant through CashSend services. This sees beneficiaries use their ID numbers and phone numbers to access their grant money. You must have a cell phone with a registered cell phone number and proof of identification. The cell phone number must be registered to your name as this is how Sassa verifies that the grant money is going to the correct beneficiary.
These grant payment collection methods include direct payment to a beneficiary’s personal bank account Alternatively grant collection is available from Pick N Pay or Boxer Stores, Checkers, Shoprite, Usave and selected OK Foods Supermarkets. This forms part of the National Payment System (NPS)
The CashSend option is still available to individuals who do not have a bank account.
Updating Your Payment Methods
Step 1: Submit your ID Number on the SRD grant website
Step 2: You will receive an SMS containing a secure link unique to you on the mobile phone number you provided during application.
Step 3: Click on the link in the SMS and carefully follow the instructions provided.
Step 4: If you opt for payment into a bank account, ensure that you are the owner of the account. SASSA does not facilitate payments into accounts owned by third parties.
Step 5: If you choose the money transfer option via a major bank, ensure that the mobile phone number receiving the SMS is registered in your name. SASSA cannot transfer funds to a mobile phone number registered to someone else.
Note that the new banking details will only be used for future payments after they have been verified. Having updated banking details may also ensure you prevent having an approved SRD Grant without a payment date.
