How to Apply for the SASSA SRD R370 Grant - Step by Step Guide
The SASSA Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant provides R370 per month to unemployed South Africans who meet the eligibility criteria. This guide walks you through the complete application process, including three different ways to apply.
R370
Monthly amount
18–59
Age requirement
R624
Max monthly income
Who Qualifies for the SRD R370 Grant?
To be eligible for the SASSA SRD grant, you must meet all of the following requirements. SASSA verifies these criteria automatically using government databases when you apply.
Note: The SRD grant has been extended until 31 March 2027. After this date, the government will decide whether to extend it further or replace it with the proposed Basic Income Support (BIS) grant.
Required Documents
You will need the following to apply for the SRD grant. The application process is mostly digital, so you do not need to bring physical documents to a SASSA office.
- ✓South African ID number
Your 13-digit ID number from your Smart ID card or green ID book
- ✓Active cellphone number
Must be a South African number that can receive SMS messages
- ✓Banking details (optional)
If you want payment into a bank account - account number, branch code, account type
Method 1: Apply Online at srd.sassa.gov.za
This is the recommended and most common way to apply. You can do it from any device with internet access - a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Tip: You can access srd.sassa.gov.za without using any data on most South African mobile networks, as the site is zero-rated.
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za
Open your web browser and go to srd.sassa.gov.za. This is the official SASSA SRD application portal.
Enter your details
Enter your South African ID number, phone number, and other required personal details. Make sure all information is accurate and matches your official documents.
Confirm your identity
SASSA will send a one-time PIN (OTP) to your registered phone number. Enter this PIN to verify your identity and continue with the application.
Provide banking or collection details
Choose how you want to receive your grant - either through a bank account (enter your banking details) or by collecting at a retail outlet using your ID.
Submit your application
Review all your information carefully and submit your application. You will receive an SMS confirmation with a reference number.
Wait for processing
SASSA will verify your eligibility by checking government databases. This usually takes 5 to 15 working days. You will receive an SMS with the outcome.
Method 2: Apply via WhatsApp
SASSA offers a WhatsApp service for SRD grant applications. This is a convenient option if you find the website difficult to use.
Save the SASSA WhatsApp number
Add 082 046 8553 to your phone contacts.
Send a message
Open WhatsApp and send the word "SRD" or "Hello" to start the process.
Follow the prompts
The automated system will guide you through the application. You will need to provide your ID number, confirm your phone number, and choose a payment method.
Receive confirmation
Once your application is submitted, you will receive a WhatsApp confirmation message. You can also use this WhatsApp number to check your status later.
Method 3: Apply via the Moya App
The Moya App is a data-free messaging application available on Android devices. It includes a SASSA services section where you can apply for the SRD grant without using any mobile data.
Download the Moya App
Download the Moya App from the Google Play Store (Android only). The app itself is free to download.
Register and verify your phone number
Open the app and register using your South African cellphone number. You will receive a verification code via SMS.
Navigate to SASSA services
In the Moya App, find the SASSA section under government services. Select "Apply for SRD Grant" to begin.
Complete the application
Fill in your ID number and personal details. Choose your preferred payment method and submit the application. All of this uses zero data.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you have submitted your application, SASSA will process it through several verification steps. Here is what to expect:
Identity Verification
Your ID number is checked against the Department of Home Affairs database to confirm your identity, age, and citizenship status.
Income and Employment Checks
SASSA checks UIF records, SARS tax data, and the government payroll system (PERSAL) to verify that you are unemployed and have no income above R624.
Grant and NSFAS Checks
SASSA verifies that you are not already receiving another social grant or NSFAS student funding.
Decision and Notification
You will receive an SMS with the outcome - approved, pending, or declined. If approved, your first payment will be processed in the next payment cycle.
How to Check Your Application Status
Online
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za and enter your ID number and phone number to check your application status.
USSD
Dial *134*7737# from your registered phone number. This is free and works on any cellphone.
Send a message to 082 046 8553 and follow the prompts to check your status.
Phone
Call 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free) Monday to Friday, 07:30 to 16:00.
Common Reasons for Rejection
If your application is declined, it will be for one of the following reasons. Click on any reason for a detailed explanation and solution.
Related Pages
Document Checklist
Use this interactive checklist to make sure you have everything you need before visiting a SASSA office.
Document Checklist
Select a grant type to see the documents you need to prepare for your application.