SASSA Grant

How To Apply For R350 Grant For Unemployed 2025-2026

In South Africa, the R350 grant has been a vital support mechanism for jobless people through difficult times. If you require financial support in the years 2025-2026, this article will thread you through the straightforward gradual procedure of applying for the R350 grant. Whether you’re new to the application process or need a refresher, this information will help you get the most out of it.

READ HERE: How To Register R350 For Unemployed 2025-2026

How To Put In An Application For R350 Grant For Unemployed 2025-2026

Applying for the R350 unemployment grant can be done in various means, provided you meet the qualification criteria set by SASSA for the grant. Applying for is simple and requires a step by step process, below are the procedures for applying for the R350 unemployment grant 2025-2026;

STEP 1: Check Your Qualification Requirements

Before you begin your application, make sure you meet the R350 grant qualifying requirements. The general eligibility criteria are:

You must be settled in South Africa
You must be jobless and NOT be receiving financial assistance from any other source
You must be a South African Citizen/ You must be a Fugitive 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 the ages of 18 and 60 years old
You must meet the means test, with an income of R624 or less per month
You must have inadequate financial means to support yourself
You must NOT be receiving any other social grants for yourself
You must NOT be contributing towards or qualified for UIF payment
You must NOT unreasonably refuse to accept employment or educational opportunities
You must NOT be receiving a salary from NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme).

STEP 2: Gather Required Legal Papers

Gather all the necessary documents ahead of time to guarantee a smooth application procedure. Typically, you will require the following items:

A valid South African ID or relevant identification documents.
Proof of accommodation (e.g., utility bills, rental agreements).
Proof of unemployment (e.g., an affidavit or letter from the Department of Labor).

STEP 3: Select An Application Method

Apply via SRD Website:

In your internet browser, visit the SRD Website(if you are a Refugee, Asylum Seeker or Special Permit Holders)
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

To Apply In-Person;

Visit a SASSA office close to you
Completed the SASSA application form in the presence of a SASSA officer
After completing the application form completely, you will be given a dated stamped receipt that includes the name of the SASSA official who aided you with your application.
keep your receipt as proof of application.

WhatsApp Application:

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.

STEP 4: Keep Track Of Your Application

You will get a confirmation or reference number after submitting your application. Make a note of this number and put it somewhere secure. If you need to question about the progress of your application or follow up with SASSA, this reference number will come in handy. SASSA may take up to 3 months to process your grant application.

Contact Sassa

For any further queries, please contact SASSA directly: