How To Apply For The New R350 Grant 2026-2027

How To Apply For The New R350 Grant 2026-2027

Registering For The SRD Grant 2026 Made Simple:

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the South African government has introduced the New R350 COVID-19 Grant to assist individuals and families facing financial difficulties. If you are currently unemployed or struggling to make ends meet in South Africa, the new R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant for 2026-2027 could provide much-needed financial assistance.

This temporary grant, managed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is aimed at individuals who have no source of income and do not receive any other form of social grant or UIF benefits. With the cost of living constantly rising, the R350 grant continues to be a lifeline for millions across the country. Applying for the new R350 grant is quick and simple, especially with the multiple channels now available.

Whether you choose to apply online via the official SASSA website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za or through other supported methods like WhatsApp or GovChat, the process is simple and accessible. To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents between the ages of 18 and 59, and they must meet specific income and employment-related criteria.

In this article, we will walk you through how to apply for the new R350 grant for 2026-2027, including the eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and steps to follow to ensure a successful application. Whether you are applying for the first time or reapplying for extended assistance, understanding the process will help you avoid delays and secure the support you need.

How To Apply For The New R350 Grant 2026-2027

The process below will guide you in applying for the Sassa SRD grant for 2026:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents:

Before beginning the application process, make sure you have the necessary documents ready. These typically include:

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)

Step 2: Create a SASSA Account:

To apply for the New R350 Grant, you will need to create an account on the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) website. Follow these steps:

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 3: Complete the Application Form:

Once you have successfully created your SASSA account, log in and proceed with the application process:

Fill in your personal information accurately, including your full name, date of birth, and contact details.
Provide your residential address and ensure it matches the proof of residence document you have.
Enter your banking details correctly to receive the grant payment.
Answer the remaining questions regarding your employment status, income, and other relevant information.

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents:

During the application process, you will be prompted to upload the necessary documents:

Scan or take clear photos of your South African ID or Smart ID card.
Scan or take clear photos of your proof of residence document.
Upload the documents to the designated section of the application form.

Step 5: Review and Submit:

Before submitting your application, take a moment to review all the information you have provided. Ensure that all details are accurate and up to date. Once you are satisfied, submit your application.

Step 6: Check Application Status:

After submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt. SASSA will review your application and inform you of its status. You can check your application status by logging into your SASSA account and looking for the relevant section.

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

Applying for the New R350 Grant can be a vital step in securing financial support during difficult moments. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this write-up, you can streamline the application process and increase your chances of receiving the grant. Remember to have all the necessary documents ready, create a SASSA account, complete the application form accurately, and upload the required documents. Stay patient and regularly check your application status. For more information, please visit SASSA Grant’s official website.

RELATED LINKS