The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) award was raised by R20 by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in 2024.
SRD participants will begin earning R370 per month on April 1, 2024. The purpose of this increase is to give those in South Africa who are unemployed and experiencing hardship more assistance. Even while the SRD award is not as significant as other social grants, such as the Older Persons Award or the Disability Grant, it is essential in helping those most in need during difficult times.
SASSA SRD Grant Eligibility:
- Nationality:
- Citizens of South Africa: Must possess a current ID from South Africa.
- Permanent resident: Requires permission to live there permanently.
- Refugee: Requires a current authorization to enter the country.
- The applicant for asylum must have a current Section 22 visa or authorization.
- Age
Candidates have to be between the ages of 18 and 60. This guarantees that assistance is given to working-age people struggling financially.
- Employment Status
Candidates have to be unemployed right now. This entails not working in any capacity, whether paid or unpaid.
- Income
Candidates must be financially independent or make less than R624 per month. This criterion was put in place to guarantee that the award helps those who are most in need.
Candidates cannot receive government funding, including stipends from the (NSFAS), Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) payments, or other social subsidies. Candidates cannot be dependent on their families for financial assistance.
- Other
Candidates cannot work for the government. Applicants may qualify if they have not been medically incapacitated for more than six months (optional).
Those who died within the past three months and were a household’s principal provider may be eligible (optional). Natural catastrophe victims could qualify (optional).