In a groundbreaking decision on January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court declared that certain regulations concerning the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant were unconstitutional, thus invalidating them. This ruling signals a significant increase in the SRD grant, changes to eligibility criteria, and enhanced access to application methods.
It is a pivotal victory for millions of financially vulnerable South Africans who depend on this assistance for their daily survival. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the SRD grant changes, what beneficiaries need to know, and the upcoming adjustments.
Key Aspects of the Court’s Ruling
SRD Grant Increase and Key Changes
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling delivers a major win for unemployed South Africans. Here’s what beneficiaries can expect:
- The SRD grant amount will rise.
- Income thresholds will be adjusted, allowing more people to qualify.
- Application methods will be expanded, making it easier for people to apply.
What Should Beneficiaries Do Next?
To stay informed about the latest developments, beneficiaries should take the following actions:
- Regularly check the SASSA website for official updates.
- Prepare for in-person applications at SASSA offices.
- Expect a grant increase before mid-2025.
For further information, visit the SASSA official website.
Key Changes and Expectations
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Payment | R370 per month (previously R350) |
| Proposed Increase | Likely to exceed R370 based on inflation and living cost increases |
| Income Threshold | R624 per month (subject to increase per court ruling) |
| Application Process | Current: Online only |
| Court Deadline | Government has until May 2025 to implement changes |
| Official Resources | SASSA Official Website |
What is the SRD Grant?
Introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was designed to provide temporary financial relief to individuals who were unemployed and had no other source of income.
Originally set at R350 per month, it was increased to R370 in April 2024. However, with rising living costs and inflation, this amount became insufficient, prompting legal action for a grant increase.
The court found that the existing SRD regulations were unfair. The criteria were outdated, excluding many eligible individuals, and did not account for inflation, which violated the right to social assistance enshrined in the South African Constitution.
What Did the Court Ruling Entail?
1. Increase in SRD Grant Amount
The Pretoria High Court ruled that the current amount of R370 was insufficient. The government is now required to implement a gradual increase, aligned with inflation and living costs.
2. Raising the Income Threshold
The court determined that the existing income threshold of R624 per month was too low, disqualifying many who were in dire need. The government must raise this threshold, ensuring that more unemployed South Africans can access the grant.
3. Introducing In-Person Applications
Previously, applications were restricted to online submissions, which excluded millions without internet access. The court mandated that in-person applications be made available at SASSA offices, significantly improving accessibility.
4. Redefining Income
Under the new ruling, once-off payments, such as small gifts or family support, should not be counted as income. This adjustment ensures that more applicants will not be disqualified unfairly.
The South African government now has until May 2025 to implement these directives.
How Much Will the SRD Grant Increase?
While the exact figure for the increase is not yet determined, analysts anticipate an increase above the current R370. Based on inflation and rising costs, the SRD grant could potentially rise to between R420 and R500 per month.
The National Treasury will allocate the necessary funds, with an official announcement expected before May 2025.
Beneficiaries are advised to keep a close eye on SASSA announcements for confirmation of the new payment amount.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
The government has until May 2025 to meet the court’s demands. It is expected that the SRD grant increase could come into effect by June 2025. Additionally, new eligibility rules and in-person application options will be available in the coming months.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant in 2025?
The eligibility requirements for the SRD Grant in 2025 will include:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Must be unemployed and not receive any other form of income above the revised income threshold.
- Cannot be receiving UIF, NSFAS, or any other social grants (excluding child support grants).
- Must be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Must reside in South Africa.
Note: With the expected increase in the income threshold, more people will be eligible for the grant than before.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Current Application Process (Before Changes)
- Online applications only: Apply through the SASSA Website or SRD Portal.
- Enter your South African ID and registered mobile number.
- Provide bank details for income verification.
New Application Process (Post-Ruling)
- In-person applications will be introduced at SASSA offices, improving accessibility.
- Applicants will be less likely to be disqualified due to small, one-time deposits.
- The income threshold will rise, meaning more applicants will qualify.
Beneficiaries should monitor SASSA updates for the latest application guidelines.
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling represents a significant victory for unemployed South Africans, ensuring that the SRD grant will be adjusted to meet the needs of those facing financial hardship.
The grant amount will increase, the income threshold will rise, and in-person applications will make the process more accessible. Beneficiaries are advised to stay informed by regularly checking SASSA updates and preparing for the upcoming changes.
FAQs
When will the SRD grant increase?
The increase is expected to take effect by June 2025, following government implementation of the changes by May 2025.
How much will the SRD grant increase?
Analysts predict the grant could rise to between R420 and R500 per month, based on inflation and living costs.
Who is eligible for the SRD grant in 2025?
Eligibility includes being unemployed, a South African citizen, and not receiving any other income above the new threshold. The income threshold is expected to rise, allowing more people to qualify.
Will the application process change?
Yes, in-person applications will be allowed at SASSA offices, in addition to the current online process.