Categories: SASSA Grant

Government R350 Grant

The Social Relief of Distress Grant (SRD Grant) is administered in terms of app-section 32 of the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (Act No. 13 of 2004) and is implemented with the concurrence of the Minister of Finance. This grant aims to give short term financial relief to individuals who are jobless or do not receive any other form of income support.

In this section, we will discuss the eligibility conditions and the application process for the South African government’s R350 grant, ensuring that those in need can access this essential assistance.

Understanding R350 Grant

The R350 grant, officially known as the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, was introduced by the South African government as part of the relief measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is intended to provide temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals and those who do not receive any other form of income support.

Eligibility Specifications for Government R350 Award

To be eligible for the R350 grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

South African Citizens, Permanent Residents or Refugees registered with Home Affairs;
Resident within the borders of the Republic of South Africa;
Above the age of 18;
Unemployed;
Not receiving any income;
Not receiving any social grant;
Not receiving any unemployment insurance benefit and does not qualify to receive unemployment insurance benefits;
Not receiving a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme;
Not receiving any other government COVID-19 response support; and
Not resident in a government funded or subsidised institution.

Types of Social Relief Grant Available for Applicant

The various social grants administered by the South African government include;

Older person’s grant (old age pension)
Child support grant
Care dependency grant
Grant in aid (if you live on a social grant but need someone to take care of you)
War veteran’s grant
Foster child grant
Disability grant/Government R350 Grant

Social Relief R350 Grant Procedures for 2025

To apply for Social Relief Grant, you can choose any of these methods;

Apply via WhatsApp:

Send a message via WhatsApp to 082 046 8553
Provide your personal details
You will receive a Reference number, an OTP and a link to click
Click on the provided link, fill in your OTP and verify your account
Fill in your surname and ID number
Confirm the personal details that you provided via the WhatsApp chat

Apply via SRD Website:

In your internet browser, visit the SRD Website(if you are a Refugee, Asylum Seeker or Special Permit Holders, find out how to apply here)
Fill in your mobile number and ID number and click “send SMS”
You will receive a 6-digit OTP via SMS
Insert the OTP number on the SRD website and click “verify pin”

Using the SASSA Chatbot:

In your internet browser, visit the SASSA Website
Click on the SRD R350 Grant assistance chatbox (the orange box on the side of the screen)
Fill in your ID number and mobile number
On the chat, choose the option to apply for the SRD R350 grant
Click on the SRD website link provided by the SASSA Chatbot
Follow the SRD website steps

SASSA Grants Contact Details

For any further queries, please contact SASSA directly:

Contact the SASSA Toll-Free Call centre on 0800 60 10 11
Contact the SASSA Head Office on 012 400 2322
Email SASSA Head Office at: Grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Contact details of SASSA offices across the country: Contact SASSA

The South African government’s R350 grant serves as a lifeline for unemployed individuals and those without any other income support. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the correct application process, eligible individuals can access the temporary financial relief provided by this grant. Remember to stay informed through official channels and be vigilant against potential fraud.

For more information on Government R350 Grant, click here to visit the official website of Sassa.