The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) remains a lifeline to many workers of the South. With living expenses on the rise and unemployment at its peak, the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, along with other social grants, provides crucial funds for working-class families, the aged, and persons with disabilities. The payment dates for September 2025, together with directions to ensure that the grant funds are received by those who deserve them the most, are now published by SASSA. Here is a guide to accessing the grant, who qualifies, and what to do to avoid delays.
Why SASSA Grants Matter
To many South Africans, the SASSA grants are a bit more than financial assistance-they enable them to afford basics like food, rental payments, and medicines. The R370 SRD grant is geared towards the unemployed and families without a steady income, thus, providing a little cushion that can mean the world against poverty. Other grants such as Old Age pension (R2,180) and Child Support Grant (R510 per child) offer support to vulnerable groups during difficult economic times. With inflation chewing into their purchasing power, the millions for whom these payments are made are just rays of hope.
Who qualifies for the grants?
SASSA’s general criteria are meant to focus on the most vulnerable in our society. These criteria must be met in order to qualify for the SRD grant:
– Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee between the ages of 18 and 60.
– Must have no other source of income whatsoever, including UIF or NSFAS.
– Must earn below the income cut-off set by SASSA (check their official website accordingly).
– Must not be residing in any government institution.
Other grants like the Old Age Pension (applicable to seniors aged 60 and above), Disability Grant, and Child Support Grant have certain other preconditions that must be proven to verify age, disability, or caregiving responsibilities. Therefore, always check SASSA’s channels to verify whether you qualify under the listed criteria.
Payment Dates for September 2025
The payment schedule for September 2025 has been arranged by SASSA in such a way that the disbursements can be made smoothly:
- Old Age Pension: September 2, 2025
- Disability Grant: September 3, 2025
- Child Support and Other Grants: September 4, 2025
SRD R370 Grant: Funded maybe sometime after the second week, exact timing may vary (check-the status for confirmation).
Payments take, on an average, between two and three days to be available on your bank or collection method.
How to Access Your Grant
- One way SASSA disburses said amounts:
- Bank Deposits: Make sure your banking particulars are updated with SASSA to prevent unnecessary payment delays.
- SASSA and Postbank Cards: These cards may be used at an ATM or shops like Boxer, Shoprite, or Pick n Pay.
Cash Collection: At specified paypoints like Post Officies.
So, stay safe: Check around you when at an ATM, use a PIN on your SASSA card, and do not give any personal information over the phone or by message, especially if the call or message was unsolicited. SASSA cautions about scams, and so verify your status only via official portals, such as srd.sassa.gov.za or the SASSA app.”
Applying or Checking Your Status
New applicants may apply at a SASSA office or online at srd.sassa.gov.za carrying one’s ID, proof of residence, and proof of income. Existing beneficiaries are encouraged to check their status using the website, on WhatsApp via 082 046 8553, or via USSD by dialing 1347737#. In case of late payments, the beneficiary can further contact SASSA through the toll-free line 0800 60 10 11-Make sure you have your ID number and SASSA card number ready.
Also Read: SASSA Grant Hike August 2025: Payment Dates and New Amounts Announced