Millions of vulnerable people receive grants from the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa). Sassa distributes grants in terms of the Social Assistance Act. Under the framework of the act, Sassa oversees the implementation of various social assistance programs. This includes the distribution of several permanent grants.
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, also commonly referred to as the R350 grant, has been a lifeline for millions of South African beneficiaries especially during the harsh lockdowns of 2020 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
While Sassa permanent grants have a fixed payment schedule, the R350 grant typically does not. However, the agency recently decided to set dates for the SRD grant, in order to keep recipients informed as to when their grant money is ready for collection.
Sassa announced that the SRD grant will be distributed during the last week of each month.
SRD grants September now being paid
Sassa commenced with the R350 grant payments for September 2023, from Friday, 22 September and will continue until 29 September 2023.
Once Sassa approves applications for this grant, beneficiaries are notified via message when their R350 grant payment is available for collection.
During the designated payment week, Sassa encourages beneficiaries to check their Sassa status on the SRD website to determine the exact date when their grant payment will be deposited into their bank accounts.
The agency also reminds grant recipients that it typically takes approximately 2-3 working days for the funds to appear in their bank accounts after the payment has been processed.
SRD Payment Dates For The Rest Of The Financial Year
- October 2023: 25 October - 31 October
- November 2023: 24 November - 30 November
- December 2023: 18 December - 22 December
- January 2024: 25 January - 31 January
- February 2024: 23 February - 29 February
- March 2024: 25 March - 29 March
How to check your Sassa status online
Checking your Sassa status online is a convenient and efficient way to stay updated on your benefits.
Follow these simple steps to check your SASSA status online:
- Start by visiting the official Sassa website
- Look for the 'Application Status' prompt
- Click on the link and provide the necessary information, such as your ID number.
- Once you have entered the required details, click on the "Check Status" button.
- Wait for the system to process your request and display your Sassa status.
Checking your Sassa status online is a quick and convenient method that allows you to access your information at any time, from anywhere. It eliminates the need for lengthy phone calls or in-person visits, saving you time and effort.
How to check your Sassa status via WhatsApp
If you prefer to check your Sassa status using your mobile phone, you can do so with a simple WhatsApp message.
Follow these step-by-step instructions to check your Sassa status via WhatsApp:
- Add the Sassa WhatsApp number to your contacts: 082 046 8553.
- Open WhatsApp and send a message to the Sassa number that says "Status" followed by your ID number.
- Double-check the accuracy of your ID number to avoid any errors.
- Sassa will then provide the necessary information regarding your application status.
After sending the SMS, you will receive a response with your SASSA status. The message should include information about your application, payment dates, and eligibility. Make sure to save the message for future reference or take a screenshot for easy access.
Checking your Sassa status via WhatsApp is a convenient option, especially for those who prefer using their mobile phones.
How To Collect Your R350 Grant Payment
There are several different methods you can use to access your money from Sassa, these include:
- Bank Account: SRD grant beneficiaries have the option of having their grants paid directly into their bank account. This is a convenient grant payment method as beneficiaries can access their money at any time after the payment was made by Sassa.
- CashSend Services: Should beneficiaries not have a bank account, they can also receive your R350 grant through a CashSend. Beneficiaries will have to use their ID numbers and phone numbers to access their grant money. You must have a cellphone with a registered cellphone number and proof of identification.
- Retail outlets: Sassa grants are paid to selected retailers around the country. Beneficiaries can withdraw their money at any time when the retail outlet is operational. Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer stores, Usave stores and Checkers all distribute social grants.
- Shoprite Group: The Shoprite Group has now made it possible for R350 grant holders to fetch their SRD grant payments at any of their 1 286 supermarkets across South Africa, which includes Checkers, USave, OK and Shoprite stores.
What Should I Do If My Sassa Application Is Rejected?
If your SRD grant application was unsuccessful there is an opportunity for you to submit an appeal and this may result in Sassa changing your application outcome.
It is important to note that these appeal applications are no longer submitted directly to Sassa. Initially, Sassa handled the appeal applications when the grant was first introduced, but they no longer process appeals.
Instead, unsuccessful R350 grant applicants must submit a R350 grant appeal application to the Independent Tribunal For Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
How To Submit Your R350 Grant Appeal
Follow these steps to submit a SRD grant appeal:
- Visit The ITSAA Website
- Enter Your Identification Number
- Enter The Cell Phone Number You Used During The Application Process
- Click Send “Pin”
- Once you receive the pin, you will be required to insert it and click “Submit”
- Select the month that you are appealing for
- Secret the drop-down arrow to choose the reason for your appeal application from the options provided
- Click “Submit” to complete the appeal application process
This grant was initially introduced as temporary form of relief for citizens experiencing sudden job loss and the inability to work during the time of the pandemic. However, the grant has been proven to be incredibly beneficial, and has therefore been extended on multiple occasions.
To find out more about Sassa grants, including the R350 grant, head to our Sassa section.
