How to Apply for the SASSA R350/R370 Grant Online in 2025

Eligibility Criteria for SASSA R350 Grant 2025

Before applying, it’s essential to confirm whether you meet the requirements. You may qualify if:

• You are a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylum seeker with a valid ID.
• You are between 18 and 60 years old.
• You are unemployed and not receiving any other form of income support (such as UIF, NSFAS, or another SASSA grant).
• You earn R624 or less per month.

Tip: Always check SASSA’s official website for the latest eligibility rules, as criteria may be adjusted annually.

Quick Checklist: How to Verify Your SASSA R350/R370 Payment

Before diving into the full guide, here’s a quick summary of what most beneficiaries want to know straight away:

Tip: Always use the same phone number you registered with—changing it without notifying SASSA can delay your payments.

Types of SASSA Grants You Can Apply for Online

Many people only think of the SRD grant when they hear “SASSA,” but the agency manages a wide range of grants to support different vulnerable groups. Each has its own eligibility rules and purpose.

• SRD R370 Grant (Social Relief of Distress): For unemployed adults with no other income support.
• Old Age Grant: For citizens aged 60 and above.
• Disability Grant: For those medically certified as disabled.
• Child Support Grant: For caregivers of children under 18.
• Foster Child Grant: For legally recognized foster parents.
• Care Dependency Grant: For parents or caregivers of severely disabled children.
• War Veterans Grant: For those who served in the World Wars or Korean War.
• Grant-in-Aid: For beneficiaries who need permanent care from another person.

Understanding which grant applies to your situation is the first step before applying online.

Step-by-Step Guide for Applying for SASSA Payments Online

The online system has removed the need for long queues at local offices. Here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Gather Required Documentation

Having the correct documents on hand will make your application smoother. You’ll need:

• Your South African ID number (or passport/asylum/refugee number for non-citizens).
• A valid South African cellphone number (linked to your application).
• Bank account details (active and registered in your name).
• Proof of income or unemployment, if requested for verification.

Step 2: Access the Official SASSA SRD Website

Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
This is the only official website for SRD applications. Avoid third-party sites or agents who may charge fees.

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

Carefully complete the form by providing:

• Your ID or passport details.
• A valid phone number.
• Your residential address and personal details.
• Confirmation that you meet the eligibility requirements.

Accuracy matters! Even a small mistake in your ID or phone number can delay approval.

Step 4: Provide Bank Account Details

While you can choose alternative payment methods (like Boxer, Pick n Pay, or the SASSA card), providing your own bank account details is the most reliable way to receive payments.

Make sure:

• The account is in your name.
• It is active and FICA-compliant.
• You do not use a joint or shared account.

Step 5: Review and Submit Your Application

Double-check all details — especially your ID number, phone number, and banking info.
Once satisfied, click Submit. You will receive an SMS confirmation with a reference number for your application.

Step 6: Wait for SASSA to Process Your Application

SASSA will now verify your details with Home Affairs, banks, and other databases.
Processing usually takes up to 30 working days, but delays may occur if many applications are being handled at once.

During this time:

• Monitor your application status on the SRD website.
• Watch for SMS updates from SASSA.
• Be patient and avoid submitting duplicate applications, which can cause rejections.

What Happens After Submitting Your R350 Application

Once submitted, your application will go through several stages. Here’s what each status means:

• Pending: SASSA is still reviewing your details.
• Approved: Your application was successful. You will soon receive a payment date.
• Declined: Your application was rejected (a reason will be provided, such as UIF income or incorrect banking details).
• Referred: Your case requires further investigation (fraud check, duplicate applications, or mismatched identity).

If you’re declined unfairly, you have the right to appeal within 30 days.

How to Check Your SASSA R350 Application Status

After applying, you’ll want to monitor your progress. Here are four reliable methods:

1. Online via SRD Portal

• Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
• Enter your ID number and the cellphone number you used to apply.
• Submit and view your latest status.

2. WhatsApp

• Save the official SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
• Send “Hi” and follow the prompts.
• Choose “Status Check” and provide your ID.

3. USSD Code

• Dial 1203210# on your phone.
• Enter your ID number.
• Receive your application status instantly.

4. Moya App

• Download the Moya App (data-free).
• Navigate to SASSA services.
• Check your status without needing airtime.

Common Issues During the Application Process and How to Fix Them

Even small errors can cause delays. Here are common problems and solutions:

• “Invalid ID” → Double-check your ID number matches Home Affairs records.
• “Wrong Phone Number” → Ensure you use the same number registered when you applied.
• “Banking Details Missing/Incorrect” → Update via the SRD portal and confirm the account is active.
• “Pending Too Long” → Reconfirm your application or contact SASSA directly.

Understanding Your SASSA Application and Payment Status

After applying, your status is updated monthly. Here’s what it means:

Each of these requires a different action from you, which we’ll explore later in the appeal and troubleshooting section.

The SASSA Payment Cycle Explained

The payment process happens in four phases:

1. Application: Submit your details.
2. Verification: SASSA checks Home Affairs, UIF, and bank records.
3. Scheduling: Once approved, a personalized payday is set.
4. Payment Release: Money is transferred via your chosen method.

Unlike old age or disability grants, the SRD R370 does not have fixed dates. Payments usually happen in the last week of each month (25th–31st).

SASSA Payment Methods – Which Is Best?

• Direct Bank Deposit: Fastest and most secure. Always use your own account.
• SASSA Gold Card: Works like a debit card at ATMs and retail partners.
• Retail Stores: Collect at Boxer, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, or Usave.
• CashSend/eWallet: Designed for unbanked beneficiaries. Requires OTP SMS.

Each method has pros and cons, but banking directly is the most reliable if you have an account in your name.

Reconfirming Your SASSA Application

Every few months, SASSA may request you to reconfirm your eligibility. This prevents fraud and ensures only those still in need continue receiving payments.

To reconfirm:

1. Visit srd.sassa.gov.za.
2. Click “Reconfirm Existing Application.”
3. Enter ID & phone number.
4. Answer income/employment questions.
5. Submit.

If you fail to reconfirm, your grant may be suspended.

Why Your SASSA Payment May Be Delayed

Delays are common and usually caused by:

• Incorrect or mismatched banking details.
• ID verification problems with Home Affairs.
• Public holidays or system backlogs.
• Referred fraud checks.
• Missed reconfirmation.

In most cases, correcting your banking info or completing verification resolves the issue.

Approved but No Payment Date – What to Do

This is one of the most common frustrations. If you’re approved but no payment date appears, it means SASSA has not yet finalized the transfer.

What to do:

• Wait 3–5 business days.
• Check banking details are correct.
• Call SASSA helpline if longer than 7 days.

How to Appeal a Declined Application

If declined, you can appeal within 90 days via the Independent Tribunal:

1. Go to srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals.
2. Enter ID and phone number.
3. Authenticate via OTP.
4. Select declined month and reason.
5. Upload proof (bank statements, affidavit).
6. Submit and track your case.

Appeals usually take 30–90 days.

Fraud Warnings and Scam Alerts

SASSA grants are often targeted by scammers. Be aware of:

• Fake SMSes promising faster payments.
• Websites asking for your ID and OTP.
• Agents charging fees for “fast approval.”

Always use official channels and never share your OTP with anyone.

Common Mistakes Beneficiaries Make

• Using someone else’s bank account.
• Ignoring reconfirmation requests.
• Forgetting to appeal within 90 days.
• Changing phone numbers without updating SASSA.
• Believing scam messages.

Avoiding these mistakes keeps your payments on track.

Pro Tips to Keep Your SRD Grant Flowing Smoothly

Experienced beneficiaries recommend:

• Reconfirm on time.
• Update banking details immediately if they change.
• Check your status monthly.
• Use your own ID-linked bank account.
• Keep your phone number active.
• Respond to SMSes quickly.
• File appeals promptly.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for SASSA logins.

Conclusion: Stay in Control of Your SASSA Grant

Managing your SASSA application and payments doesn’t need to be stressful. By applying online, understanding your status, keeping banking details correct, reconfirming when asked, and avoiding scams, you can ensure your grant provides consistent support each month.

For many South Africans, the R370 SRD grant is more than money—it’s dignity, security, and hope. Use this guide as your roadmap, share it with others, and stay updated so you never miss a payment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)