In a landmark decision on January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court ruled that certain regulations governing the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant were unconstitutional, leading to significant changes.
This court ruling has confirmed an increase in the SRD grant, adjustments to the eligibility criteria, and improvements in application accessibility. These changes are expected to benefit millions of unemployed and financially vulnerable South Africans who rely on the grant for their basic needs.
This article explores the details of the SRD grant increase, provides latest updates, and outlines what beneficiaries should do to prepare for the upcoming changes.
SASSA SRD Grant Increase Confirmed by Court Ruling
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling marks a significant win for millions of South Africans who are unemployed. The decision mandates an increase in the SRD grant amount, a rise in income thresholds, and more accessible methods for grant applications.
Beneficiaries must stay informed and check official SASSA updates regularly to ensure they are prepared for these changes.
What Should You Do Next?
- Monitor SASSA’s official website for updates on the new regulations.
- Prepare for in-person applications at SASSA offices, as the ruling requires these changes.
- Expect an SRD grant increase to be rolled out before mid-2025.
For the latest developments, always refer to the SASSA official website.
SRD Grant Details Post-Court Ruling
The following table summarizes the important changes set to be implemented following the court ruling:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Payment Amount | R370 per month (up from the previous R350) |
| Proposed Increase | Likely to rise above R370, adjusted for inflation and living costs |
| Income Threshold | Currently R624 per month (subject to an increase based on the court ruling) |
| Application Process | Online applications only (to be expanded to include in-person options) |
| Court Deadline | Government must implement changes by May 2025 |
| Official Resources | SASSA Official Website |
What is the SRD Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was introduced in 2020 as a temporary financial aid during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist individuals who were unemployed and had no other source of income. Initially set at R350 per month, the grant was later increased to R370 in April 2024.
However, due to the rising cost of living and inflation, the existing amount was found to be inadequate, which led to the recent legal action to secure an increase in the grant.
The court ruling addressed the issue of inflation and the failure of the current SRD regulations to provide adequate support for all who need it, citing violations of constitutional rights related to access to social assistance.
Key Aspects of the Court Ruling
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling included four main directives that will significantly improve the SRD grant process for applicants:
1. Increase in SRD Grant Amount
The current R370 per month was deemed insufficient, and the government has been instructed to create a plan for increasing the amount progressively, based on inflation and the cost of living.
2. Raising Income Threshold
The existing income threshold of R624 per month was considered too low. The government must raise this threshold to ensure that more unemployed individuals can qualify for the SRD grant.
3. In-Person Application Options at SASSA Offices
Previously, applications were accepted only online, which excluded many people without access to the internet. The court ordered SASSA to provide an option for in-person applications to ensure more widespread accessibility.
4. Fairer Definition of Income
The court ruled that occasional once-off payments, such as family support or small gifts, should not be counted as income when determining eligibility for the SRD grant. This ruling ensures that applicants are not unfairly disqualified due to these minor amounts.
The government has been given a deadline of four months (until May 2025) to comply with these directives.
How Much Will the SRD Grant Increase?
While the court did not specify an exact amount, analysts predict that the SRD grant will increase above R370, taking into account inflation and rising living costs.
The new SRD grant amount could range from R420 to R500 per month, but the final figure will depend on the Treasury’s funding allocation. Beneficiaries are advised to monitor SASSA announcements for official updates regarding the new grant amount.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
The court has set a deadline of May 2025 for the government to implement these changes. Beneficiaries can expect the SRD grant increase to take effect as early as June 2025, subject to government approval.
New eligibility criteria and in-person application options should also be available in the coming months.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant in 2025?
The eligibility criteria for the SRD grant are as follows:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- Must be unemployed and not earning more than the newly set income threshold.
- Must not be receiving any other form of income such as UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (excluding child support grants).
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Must reside in South Africa.
Importantly, the income threshold will be raised, meaning that more people will become eligible for the grant.
How to Apply for the SASSA SRD Grant Increase Post-Court Ruling
Current Application Process (Before the Changes)
- Online Applications Only: Applicants need to submit their applications through the SASSA website or SRD portal.
- Provide ID and Mobile Number: Applicants must enter their South African ID number and registered mobile number.
- Bank Details: SASSA will verify applicants’ income status through their bank account details.
New Application Process (After the Court Ruling)
- In-person applications will be introduced at SASSA offices.
- Fewer disqualifications due to minor once-off deposits or gifts.
- The income threshold will be raised, allowing more people to qualify for the SRD grant.
The Pretoria High Court’s ruling is a major victory for unemployed South Africans who rely on the SRD grant for basic survival.
The increase in the grant amount, higher income thresholds, and introduction of in-person application options will provide much-needed support for many individuals and families facing financial hardship.
Beneficiaries must stay informed and be ready for these positive changes, which should take effect by mid-2025. Always check SASSA’s official website for the latest updates.
FAQs
When will the SRD grant increase take place?
The SRD grant increase is expected to take effect by June 2025.
Will I need to apply in person for the SRD grant?
Yes, following the court ruling, in-person applications will be allowed at SASSA offices.
What is the current income threshold for the SRD grant?
The current income threshold is R624 per month, but it will likely be increased following the court ruling.