How Do We Apply For R350 Unemployment Grant 2026

How Do We Apply For R350 Unemployment Grant 2026

SASSA Old Age Grant 2026-2027: Online Application and Support Info:

To qualify, you must be a South African citizen or permanent resident, be between the ages of 18 and 59, not be receiving any other government grant or UIF payment, and have little to no income. Before applying, it is important to gather the required information, such as your ID number, cellphone number, and banking details.

If you are currently unemployed and living in South Africa, the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant from SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) can provide temporary financial assistance to help you manage daily expenses. With high unemployment rates and the rising cost of living, the R350 grant continues to play an important role in supporting those with no other source of income. As we approach the 2026 application period, many South Africans are asking: How do we apply for the R350 unemployment grant in 2026

The good news is that the process is simple and can be completed entirely online or through your mobile device. Whether you are a first-time applicant or someone needing to reapply, knowing the correct steps, requirements, and platforms to use is essential. The application process is designed to be accessible, and you can apply using the SASSA website, WhatsApp, or the GovChat platform

Sassa R350 Unemployment Application Date 2026-2027

Since SASSA is a social intervention policy, it is always open for application and has no closing date. Every month, grant applications are open for those wanting to apply.

How Do We Apply For R350 Unemployment Grant 2026

The following is the process of applying for the unemployment grant for 2026:

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility:

Before applying for the R350 Unemployment Grant, it’s important to determine whether you meet the eligibility criteria. To qualify, you must:

You must reside in South Africa

You must meet any 1 of these criteria:

- You must be a South African Citizen
- You must be a Refugee in South Africa
- You must be an Asylum Seeker in South Africa with a valid Section 22 permit or visa
- You must be a Special Permit Holder in South Africa (under the Special Angolan Dispensation, the Lesotho Exemption Permit Dispensation, or the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Dispensation)
You must be between 18 and 60 years old
You must meet the means test, with an income of R624 or less per month
You must be unemployed and NOT be receiving financial support from any other source
You must have insufficient financial means to support yourself
You must NOT be receiving any other social grants for yourself
You must NOT be contributing towards or eligible for UIF payment
You must NOT unreasonably refuse to accept employment or educational opportunities
You must NOT be receiving a stipend from NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

Read Also: How Do You Apply SRD Sassa 350?

Step 2: Gather Required Documents:

To complete your application, you will need to gather specific documents. These typically include:

Valid South African ID document or card.
Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or official letter.
Bank account details where the grant will be paid.
The cell phone number is for communication purposes.
Any supporting documents required by the application portal.

Step 3: Application Process:

There are various ways to apply for the R350 Unemployment Grant:

SRD Website:

In your internet browser, visit the SRD Website
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

WhatsApp:

Send a message via WhatsApp to 082 046 8553
Provide your 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

Step 4: Application Review and Feedback

After submitting your application, it will undergo a review process by SASSA. This can take some time due to the volume of applications received. It is essential to remain patient during this period.

On the SRD grants website
Send a WhatsApp message to 082 046 8553
Call the Toll Free Call Centre on 0800 60 10 11

SASSA Contact Details

For any further queries, please get in touch with SASSA directly:

SASSA Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2000
SASSA Fax: 012 400 2257
SASSA Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za
SASSA Email: srd@sassa.gov.za

The R350 Unemployment Grant serves as a temporary lifeline for unemployed individuals in South Africa, helping them meet their basic needs during challenging times. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can apply for the grant and increase your chances of receiving financial assistance. Remember to stay informed about any changes or updates in the application process by regularly checking official sources. For more information, please visit SASSA Grant’s official website.

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