Great news for millions of unemployed South Africans! During the 2025 Budget Speech, the government officially announced that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant will be extended until March 2026.
This extension ensures that beneficiaries of the R350 grant will continue receiving financial support for another year while the government works on long-term solutions for unemployment assistance.
SRD Grant Extension: What You Need to Know
The SRD Grant, commonly known as the R350 grant, was introduced in 2020 to provide temporary relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, due to persistently high unemployment rates, the grant has been extended multiple times.
During the 2025 Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance confirmed that the SRD grant will remain unchanged until March 2026, allowing millions of South Africans with no alternative income or social support to continue receiving R350 per month.
Why Was the SRD Grant Extended?
The SRD grant has been a crucial safety net, helping to alleviate poverty among unemployed individuals. The government is currently reviewing Active Labor Market Policy programs, which will influence the future of income support in South Africa.
The policy review findings, expected by September 2025, will determine whether the SRD grant will be replaced with a more permanent income support system. Until then, the extension provides financial stability while balancing government spending.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
If you are unemployed and meet the eligibility criteria, you can still apply for the SRD grant. Here’s how:
- Visit the official SASSA SRD website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Apply” and follow the instructions.
- Fill in the required details and submit your application.
- Regularly check your application status on the same website.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant?
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- You are unemployed.
- You are between 18 and 59 years old.
- You do not receive other government grants (such as the Old Age Grant or Disability Grant).
- You do not receive UIF payments.
- You are not funded by NSFAS.
What Happens After March 2026?
The government is considering a more permanent income support system, but this depends on the labor policy review. For now, beneficiaries can be assured that payments will continue until March 2026.
Final Thoughts
The SRD grant extension is a lifeline for many South Africans facing economic hardship. While the long-term future of the grant remains uncertain, this extension provides much-needed relief.
For the latest updates on SASSA payments, application processes, and social grant policies, stay connected to our blog!