Never applied for a government grant before? The SASSA SRD R370 grant process can feel overwhelming at first — but it’s simpler than it looks. This guide walks you through the application, what happens next, and how to track your status every step of the way.
Who Can Apply for the SASSA SRD R370 Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant was introduced to support unemployed South Africans during the COVID-19 pandemic and was extended due to ongoing economic pressure. As of 2024, SASSA continues to administer it as a monthly payment of R370
To qualify, you must meet all of the following criteria according to SASSA’s official eligibility requirements:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or asylum seeker with a valid permit
- Be between 18 and 60 years old
- Be unemployed and not receiving any income
- Not be receiving any other SASSA grant
- Not be a resident at a government-funded institution (e.g., a prison or care home)
- Have a monthly income of R624 or less
How to Apply for the SASSA SRD Grant
Online Application Steps
- Visit the official portal at srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Apply for SRD Grant”
- Enter your 13-digit South African ID number
- Provide your active mobile number — this is used for all future communication
- Select your preferred payment method (bank account, Postbank card, or retailer)
- Submit and wait for an SMS confirmation
SASSA will acknowledge your application via SMS. Save this SMS for your records. Processing typically takes 5 to 30 working days.
How to Do a SASSA Status Check After Applying
Once your application is in, the most important thing to do is keep checking your status. You can do a SASSA status check on the official SASSA SRD website using your ID and mobile number.
Log into srd.sassa.gov.za regularly — at least once a month — to see whether your application has moved from ‘Pending’ to ‘Approved’ or ‘Declined’. If it’s approved, a payment date will appear automatically on your dashboard.
Understanding Your Application Status
| Status | Meaning | Next Step |
| Approved | Grant confirmed. Payment date assigned. | Collect on your allocated payment date. |
| Pending | SASSA is checking your details against government records. | Wait a few days and check again. |
| Declined | You did not meet eligibility requirements for this month. | Read the decline reason. Appeal within 90 days via the DSD portal. |
| Application Not Found | Your ID or mobile number doesn’t match SASSA records. | Call 0800 60 10 11 or re-apply at srd.sassa.gov.za. |
Checking Your SRD Status via WhatsApp
Not everyone has easy access to a smartphone browser. For those with basic data access, SASSA’s WhatsApp line is the simplest option. Send “Hi” to 082 046 8553 and follow the automated prompts.
The WhatsApp service lets you check your current status, get your payment date, and even report a problem with your payment. It’s especially useful in rural areas of provinces like Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal where internet connectivity is limited.
Tracking Your SRD Status for Reconsideration
If previous months were declined, they may qualify for reconsideration. Use the SRD Status check to review your full grant history. Then visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status to check whether those months are under review.
SASSA processes reconsiderations using updated data from SARS and Home Affairs. If new data shows you were eligible during those months, a backdated payment will be released. This process can take several months, so patience is key.
Common First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong mobile number: Always use the number linked to your application. Don’t switch SIM cards.
- Not checking monthly: SASSA re-evaluates every month. A single check is not enough.
- Ignoring decline reasons: The reason shown on the portal tells you exactly what to fix or appeal.
- Using unofficial websites: Only use srd.sassa.gov.za. Third-party sites may steal your details.
- Missing the appeal window: You have 90 days from a declined status to submit an appeal. Don’t delay.
Conclusion
Applying for the SASSA SRD R370 grant and tracking your status doesn’t have to be confusing. Use the official portal at srd.sassa.gov.za, check your status every month, and act fast if your application is declined. The more you understand the process, the less likely you are to miss a payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for the SASSA SRD grant if I’m an asylum seeker?
Yes. Asylum seekers with valid permits issued by the Department of Home Affairs are eligible to apply. Your permit details will be verified during the application process.
2. How do I know if my application was submitted successfully?
SASSA sends an SMS confirmation to your registered mobile number after a successful application. If you did not receive an SMS within 24 hours, try re-applying or contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11.
3. Can I apply for the SRD grant at a SASSA office?
SASSA strongly encourages online applications via srd.sassa.gov.za to reduce long queues at offices. Walk-in applications are handled in limited cases, particularly for elderly or disabled applicants.
4. What happens if I get a job while receiving the SRD grant?
You must stop receiving the grant immediately. SASSA cross-checks your data with SARS monthly. If income is detected, your status will automatically change to ‘Declined’ for that month.
5. Can two people in the same household receive the SRD grant?
Yes. The grant is assessed individually based on each person’s income and ID number, not per household. Multiple people in the same home can each receive the grant if they individually meet the eligibility criteria.
6. Is the SASSA SRD grant going to continue beyond 2025?
The South African government has indicated its intention to continue the grant as part of a broader social protection framework. According to National Treasury and SASSA communications in 2024, discussions around a permanent Basic Income Support grant are ongoing. Always check srd.sassa.gov.za for the latest updates.
