SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed by Court Ruling: In a landmark decision on January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court ruled that certain regulations governing the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant were unconstitutional and invalid. This decision paves the way for an increase in the SRD grant amount, adjustments to the eligibility criteria, and improved accessibility to applications. The ruling is a victory for millions of unemployed and financially vulnerable South Africans who rely on the grant for their basic survival. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the SRD grant increase, the latest updates, and what beneficiaries need to do next.
SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed by Court Ruling
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling is a major victory for millions of unemployed South Africans. The SRD grant amount will increase, income thresholds will rise, and applications will become more accessible. Beneficiaries should stay informed, prepare for changes, and check SASSA updates regularly.
What to Do Next?
Monitor the SASSA website for official announcements.
Prepare for in-person applications at SASSA offices.
Expect an SRD grant increase before mid-2025.
For the latest updates, visit SASSA’s official website.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Payment Amount | R370 per month (previously R350) |
| Proposed Increase | Expected to rise above R370 based on cost of living and inflation |
| Income Threshold | R624 per month (subject to increase per court ruling) |
| Application Process | – Current: Online applications only – Court Ruling: SASSA must allow in-person applications at SASSA offices |
| Court Deadline | Government has 4 months to implement changes (by May 2025) |
| Official Resources | SASSA Official Website |
What is the SRD Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals with no other source of income.
Initially set at R350 per month, the grant was increased to R370 in April 2024. However, inflation and rising living costs have rendered this amount inadequate, prompting legal action to demand an increase.
The latest court ruling found that the current SRD regulations unfairly excluded many applicants, failed to keep up with inflation, and violated the right to social assistance as enshrined in the South African Constitution.
What Did the Court Rule?
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling included four major directives:
1. Increase in SRD Grant Amount
The court declared the current R370 amount insufficient.
The government must develop a plan to progressively increase the amount based on inflation and cost of living.
2. Higher Income Threshold
The current income threshold (R624 per month) is too low and prevents many needy individuals from qualifying.
The government must raise this limit, allowing more unemployed people to access the SRD grant.
3. In-Person Applications at SASSA Offices
Previously, applications were only accepted online, excluding millions without internet access.
The court ordered SASSA to introduce in-person application options, making the process more accessible.
4. Fairer Definition of Income
The court ruled that occasional once-off payments (such as family support or small gifts) should not count as income.
This new definition of income will ensure that applicants are not unfairly disqualified.
The South African government has been given four months (until May 2025) to comply with these directives.
How Much Will the SRD Grant Increase?
The court did not specify the exact amount by which the SRD grant should increase, but analysts expect:
- An increase above R370, considering inflation and living costs.
- Some sources suggest the new SRD grant could be set between R420 and R500 per month.
- The Treasury must allocate funds, and the final decision will be announced before May 2025.
Beneficiaries should monitor SASSA announcements for official updates on the new payment amount.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
- The court gave the government until May 2025 to implement these changes.
- The grant increase could take effect as early as June 2025 (subject to government approval).
- New eligibility rules and in-person application options should be introduced within the next few months.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant in 2025?
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Must be unemployed and not receiving any other form of income above the new income threshold.
- Must not receive UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (excluding child support grants).
- Must be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Must reside in South Africa.
Important: The income threshold will increase, meaning more people will qualify than before.
How to Apply for the SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed by Court Ruling?
Current Application Process (Before the Changes)
Online Applications Only: Apply through the SASSA Website or SRD Portal.
Use ID & Mobile Number: Enter your South African ID and registered mobile number.
Provide Bank Details: SASSA will verify your income status through your bank account.
New Application Process (After Court Ruling)
In-person applications at SASSA offices will be introduced.
Fewer people will be disqualified due to small once-off deposits.
Income threshold will increase, allowing more people to qualify.
Beneficiaries should check SASSA announcements regularly for updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the SRD grant increase?
The government has until May 2025 to finalize an increase. Changes could take effect by June 2025.
2. How much will the new SRD grant be?
The new amount is not confirmed yet, but estimates suggest it could rise to R420-R500 per month.
3. Will I need to reapply if I already receive the SRD grant?
No official confirmation yet, but current beneficiaries may need to update their details once new rules are implemented.
4. What happens if I was disqualified due to a small deposit in my bank account?
The court ruled that small once-off payments should not count as income. SASSA must adjust its eligibility criteria accordingly.
5. Can I apply in person now?
Not yet. SASSA has until May 2025 to introduce in-person applications at its offices.
6. Will I automatically get the increased SRD amount?
Yes, if you are already a recipient, the new payment will be adjusted automatically.
