How To Apply For R350 Unemployment Fund

How To Apply For R350 Unemployment Fund

Your Guide to Applying for the R350 Grant as an Unemployed Citizen:

South African citizens currently unemployed and struggling financially, the R350 Unemployment Fund, officially known as the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, could provide the support they need. Introduced by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), this grant offers temporary relief to individuals between the ages of 18 and 59 who are not receiving any income, social grants, UIF, or NSFAS assistance. It is also available to permanent residents, refugees, and asylum seekers with valid documentation.

The application process for the R350 Unemployment Fund is easy and accessible. SASSA has made it easy for applicants to apply using several platforms, including the SASSA SRD website, WhatsApp, and the Moya App, a data-free alternative ideal for those with limited internet access. These flexible options ensure that more people can apply with ease, using just a smartphone or basic internet connection.

Before you apply, you will need a few essential documents: your South African ID or permit, proof of residence, banking details, and a cellphone number registered in your name. Once your application is submitted, SASSA will process and verify your information, and you will receive an SMS notification about your application status.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of applying for the R350 Unemployment Fund, including eligibility requirements, necessary documents, step-by-step instructions, and how to check your application status.

Deadline To Apply For The R350 Unemployment Fund 2026

Since SASSA is a social intervention policy, it is always open for application, and there is no closing date

Who Qualifies To Apply For The R350 Unemployment Fund

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or legal foreign national with a valid refugee/asylum permit.
Those currently unemployed and not earning any income.
Not receiving any other SASSA grant, UIF benefits, or NSFAS support.
Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
Have a valid South African ID or permit issued by Home Affairs.
Own an active cellphone number registered in your name.
Have a bank account or a registered payment method.

Required Documents To Apply For The R350 Unemployment Fund

To apply, ensure you have:

A valid South African ID or asylum/refugee permit.
Proof of residence.
Bank account details (account number and bank name).
An active cellphone number for verification and communication.
(Optional) Proof of unemployment, which may be requested.

How To Apply For R350 Unemployment Fund

You can submit your application using any of these platforms:

Online via the SASSA SRD Website:

Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/application/auth
Enter your cellphone number and click Send SMS.
Enter the OTP sent to your phone.
Fill out the application form with your details, banking information, and employment status.
Accept the terms and submit your application.

Via WhatsApp:

Save the number 082 046 8553.
Send “Hi” to start the process.
Follow the prompts: reply with Help then SRD.
Enter your ID number and cellphone number to complete your application.

Using the Moya App (No Data Needed):

Download the Moya App from the Google Play Store.
Open the app and select SASSA R350 Grant.
Enter your ID and phone number, complete the form, and submit.

What Happens After You Apply for The Sassa Grant

SASSA will verify your ID, citizenship, and income status through government databases.
You will receive an SMS confirming receipt of your application.
Your application is reviewed monthly for eligibility.
You will be notified if your application is approved, pending, or declined.

How to Appeal a Declined Sassa Unemployment Grant Application

If you believe your application was unfairly rejected:

Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/appeal
Enter your ID number and cellphone number.
Use the OTP sent to your phone to proceed.
Select the month you are appealing and provide your reason.
Submit your appeal within 30 days of receiving the rejection notice.
You can track your appeal through the same portal.

How Will You Receive the Sassa Unemployment Grant

Once approved, the R350 payment can be collected via:

Direct bank deposit (fastest and safest)
Post Office (limited availability)
Retail stores like Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, Boxer
CashSend services using your cellphone number

Read Also: How Do You Apply SRD Sassa 350?

SASSA Contact Details

For any further queries, please get in touch with 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

Applying for the R350 Unemployment Fund can provide much-needed financial assistance to unemployed individuals in South Africa. Confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and choose the most suitable application channel. Provide accurate personal information, upload the necessary documents, and review your application before submitting it. For more information, please visit SASSA Grant’s official website.

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