In a landmark judgment handed down on January 24, 2025, the Pretoria High Court declared several regulations surrounding the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant to be unconstitutional and therefore invalid. This powerful ruling paves the way for crucial improvements to the SRD grant, including an increase in the grant amount, expansion of application methods, and updates to the income threshold, allowing more South Africans to benefit.
This decision is a game-changer for millions of vulnerable South Africans who rely on the SRD grant as a vital source of financial support. Below, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of what’s changing, how it affects current and future beneficiaries, and what to expect next.
Highlights of the Court’s Ruling
Bigger Grants, Broader Access
The Pretoria High Court’s decision represents a major win for unemployed and financially insecure citizens. Key takeaways include:
- A significant increase in the SRD grant amount.
- Higher income thresholds, enabling more individuals to qualify.
- Expanded application options, including in-person registration.
Next Steps for Beneficiaries
To make the most of these updates, current and potential beneficiaries are encouraged to:
- Visit the official SASSA website regularly for updates.
- Prepare for in-person applications at local SASSA offices.
- Anticipate increased grant payments by mid-2025.
For the latest official announcements, refer to the SASSA official website.
Key Updates and What to Expect
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Grant Value | R370 per month (increased from R350 in 2024) |
| Proposed Grant | Estimated to rise above R370, possibly up to R500 |
| Income Limit | Currently R624 per month (likely to be raised) |
| Application Process | Online only (soon to include in-person applications) |
| Court Implementation Deadline | May 2025 |
| Official Source | SASSA Official Website |
Background: What Is the SRD Grant?
Originally launched in 2020 during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was designed to provide immediate support to unemployed individuals without other forms of income. Initially set at R350 per month, it was increased to R370 in April 2024. However, as inflation and living expenses soared, the amount was deemed insufficient, prompting legal action that led to this court ruling.
Why the Court Declared the Regulations Unconstitutional
The High Court found that the existing SRD grant rules were exclusionary and failed to reflect economic realities. Specifically:
- Outdated Income Threshold: Many truly needy applicants were disqualified due to an unrealistically low income cap.
- Inflexible Application Process: Limiting applications to online submissions excluded millions without internet access.
- Definition of Income: Occasional support or once-off cash gifts were wrongly counted as income, disqualifying many.
- Violation of Rights: These shortcomings contradicted the constitutional right to social assistance.
Key Implications of the Ruling
- SRD Grant Increase The R370 amount was deemed too low. The government is now required to gradually raise the amount to better match inflation and basic living costs.
- Higher Income Threshold The current cap of R624 per month was ruled inadequate. A revised, higher limit will make it possible for more unemployed South Africans to qualify for assistance.
- Introduction of In-Person Applications Previously online-only, the process will now allow in-person applications at SASSA branches-addressing the digital divide and improving accessibility.
- Fairer Income Definition The court ruled that irregular, once-off contributions-like a gift from a relative-should not be considered income. This change prevents unfair disqualifications.
The government has until May 2025 to implement these changes.
How Much More Will the SRD Grant Be?
Although the new amount hasn’t been officially confirmed, financial experts suggest that the grant may rise to somewhere between R420 and R500 per month. This would reflect both inflation and the rising cost of living. The National Treasury will allocate the necessary funding, with an official announcement expected before the May deadline.
Timeline for Implementation
- Deadline for Government Compliance: May 2025
- Expected Grant Increase Effective Date: June 2025
- Rollout of In-Person Applications and New Criteria: Mid-2025
Updated SRD Grant Eligibility in 2025
To qualify for the SRD Grant under the new regulations, individuals must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee.
- Be unemployed and not receiving income above the revised income threshold.
- Not receive other government support like UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants (except child support).
- Be between the ages of 18 and 59.
- Reside in South Africa.
With the revised income cap, many who were previously excluded may now qualify.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Current Application Method (Before Changes)
- Apply online via the SASSA website or the SRD portal.
- Provide your South African ID and a registered mobile number.
- Include banking details for income verification.
New Application Method (Post-Ruling)
- Applications will also be accepted in person at local SASSA offices.
- The income threshold will be higher, increasing the chances of approval.
- Once-off payments will no longer count as income, reducing unfair rejections.
Stay updated on new procedures through SASSA’s official communication channels.
Conclusion: A Major Step Forward for South Africa’s Poor
The High Court’s decision represents a major breakthrough for millions of struggling South Africans. With a higher grant amount, relaxed income rules, and easier access to apply, the SRD grant will now better fulfill its role as a social safety net.
Beneficiaries should remain proactive-track announcements, gather necessary documents, and prepare for changes expected to roll out before mid-2025.
FAQs
When will the SRD grant be increased?
Changes are expected to be implemented by June 2025, after the government meets the court’s May 2025 deadline.
How much will the SRD grant go up by?
Experts estimate the new amount will be between R420 and R500 per month.
Who will be eligible in 2025?
Eligibility includes being unemployed, aged 18–59, and not receiving income above the new limit. The relaxed income criteria will allow more people to qualify.
Will the application process change?
Yes, in-person applications at SASSA offices will be introduced alongside the existing online option.
