How To Apply For The Sassa Unemployment Grant

How To Apply For The Sassa Unemployment Grant

Complete SASSA Unemployment Grant Application Guide 2026:

South African citizens who are currently unemployed and struggling to make ends meet, the SASSA Unemployment Grant, also known as the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, which can provide much-needed financial support. Introduced by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), this grant is designed to assist citizens, permanent residents, and asylum seekers who are not receiving any form of income, unemployment benefits, or government aid from NSFAS or other SASSA grants. It serves as a lifeline for millions of South Africans between the ages of 18 and 59.

Applying for the SASSA Unemployment Grant is an easy process and can be done using various accessible methods, including the official SASSA SRD website, WhatsApp, or the Moya App (a data-free option). Whether you have limited access to the internet or prefer mobile communication, SASSA has created flexible application platforms to make the process as easy and inclusive as possible.

Before applying, you will need certain documents, including your South African ID or asylum/refugee permit, proof of residence, banking details, and a cellphone number registered in your name. Once your application is submitted, SASSA will verify your details and notify you of your approval status via SMS.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about how to apply for the SASSA Unemployment Grant, from eligibility criteria and required documents to step-by-step application methods and how to track your status. If you are looking for financial relief during difficult times, this guide will help you take the first step.

Read Also: How Do I Ask For Grant Money?

Deadline To Apply For The Sassa Unemployment Grant 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 Sassa Unemployment Grant

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 Sassa Unemployment Grant

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 The Sassa Unemployment Grant

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.

Read Also: Can I Apply For a Grant Online?

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’re 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

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

By following this step-by-step guide, you will be well-equipped to complete your application successfully. Remember to gather all the necessary documents, create an account, fill in the application form accurately, upload the required documents, and review your application before submitting it. For more information, please visit SASSA Grant’s official website.

RELATED LINKS