For struggling South Africans, social grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provide a vital lifeline. SASSA distributes regular cash payments to aid vulnerable groups across the country. In the wake of COVID-19’s economic devastation, these grants have become more indispensable than ever for alleviating poverty.
This article will provide extensive details on South Africa’s main SASSA grants – including how to check your status and apply for the COVID-19 R350 relief grant online. With widespread unemployment leaving many in need, properly utilizing SASSA’s offerings has become essential for millions of low-income citizens.
We’ll outline eligibility criteria, application instructions, payment schedules, and more so you can access necessary support during these challenging times. If you’re looking to get approved for South African social grants like the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, or temporary COVID R350, read on for guidance navigating SASSA’s vital financial relief programs.
Understanding South Africa’s Social Relief Policy and Sassa Grants
As part of South Africa’s expansive social welfare policy, the government utilizes SASSA to distribute social grants to various vulnerable demographics. Besides the temporary COVID-19 R350 grant, main Sassa offerings include:
- Old Age Grant – For seniors over 60 facing financial difficulties.
- Disability Grant – For disabled citizens with minimal income.
- War Veterans Grant – For those who fought in World War 1 or 2.
- Care Dependency Grant – For caregivers of disabled children under 18.
- Foster Child Grant – For registered foster parents caring for children.
- Child Support Grant – For low-income parents supporting children under 18.
- Grant-in-Aid – For disabled grant recipients needing full-time care.
These grants aim to aid vulnerable groups by providing regular cash payments. With South Africa’s high unemployment and poverty rates, social grants are crucial for many citizens’ survival.
The R350 grant was introduced as emergency relief for those whose livelihoods were impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. Administered by SASSA, the R350 grant provides successful applicants with R350 monthly to cover basic needs.
Checking Your SASSA R350 Grant Application Status Online
If you have applied for the special COVID-19 R350 grant, it is essential to check your application status regularly to ensure approval. Here are the steps to check online:
Via the SASSA SRD Website
- Go to the SASSA SRD website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Enter your 13-digit South African ID number on the homepage.
- Input your active cell phone number.
- Click “Send SMS” to receive your unique status PIN.
- Input the one-time PIN sent via SMS to verify your identity.
- Your grant application status will display on-screen.
Via the Moya App
- Download the Moya App on your Android or iOS device.
- Open the app and select “Discovery” at the bottom.
- Choose “Application Status”.
- Enter your 13-digit SA ID and mobile number.
- Your status will be displayed in the Moya App.
Through WhatsApp
- Save the SASSA status check number 082 046 8553 in your phone’s contacts.
- Open your WhatsApp chat and search for the new “SASSA Status” contact.
- Send a WhatsApp message with your full name, surname, and ID number.
- An automated reply will provide info on your R350 application status.
By Phone
- Call the SASSA call center at 0800 601 011.
- When prompted, enter your 13-digit South African ID number.
- An agent will relay details of your R350 grant application status over the phone.
Understanding Key SASSA R350 Grant Status Results
Here are the most common status results and their meanings when checking your SASSA grant approval:
- Pending – Your application is still being processed and verified by SASSA.
- Declined – Unfortunately your grant application has been rejected by SASSA at this time.
- Identity Verification Failed – The ID number you provided could not be verified.
- Bank Details Pending – Your grant is approved but SASSA still needs your banking details to pay out.
- Reapplication Pending – You have not reapplied yet during the latest application cycle.
- Application Approved – Your grant reapplication has been accepted during this period.
- Canceled – Your grant has been canceled by SASSA. You can appeal.
- Period Pending – Your application for the current period is still being reviewed.
- Period Approved – You are approved to receive the grant for the current monthly period.
- Period Declined – Your grant was declined for the current period only but you can reapply.
When Are R350 Grant Payments Each Month?
If approved, your R350 grant will be paid out each month on varying dates. Payment week schedules for 2023 are:
- January: Week of the 2nd
- February: Week of the 6th
- March: Week of the 6th
- April: Week of the 3rd
- May: Week of the 2nd
- June: Week of the 5th
- July: Week of the 4th
- August: Week of the 1st
- September: Week of the 4th
- October: Week of the 2nd
- November: Week of the 1st
- December: Week of the 4th
You will receive an SMS notification with your exact pay date once approved. If you provide bank account details, the R350 will be deposited directly. Otherwise, collect cash at a SASSA pay point.
Who Qualifies for South Africa’s R350 Grant?
To qualify for the COVID-19 R350 grant, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Aged 18 to 60 years old.
- South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylum seeker.
- Unemployed without income or receiving other grants.
- Failed the SARS means test indicating low income.
- Not admitted to or cared for in a state institution.
- Do not already receive a disability grant.
- Do not receive any other SASSA social grant.
- No UIF, NSFAS, or other government assistance.
Ensure you meet all these criteria before submitting an application. Self-employed individuals who lost income due to lockdowns may also qualify. Non-citizens must provide proper immigration paperwork.
How to Successfully Apply for the SASSA R350 Grant
If you meet the eligibility criteria, here are some ways to apply for the special COVID-19 R350 relief grant:
Online Via the SASSA Website
- Navigate to https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Provide your ID number and cellphone when prompted.
- Complete all required fields with your personal details.
- Upload any required documents as proof of eligibility.
- Carefully fill in your banking details correctly to get paid.
- Accept the terms and submit the completed application.
Via WhatsApp
- Save the number 082 046 8553 as “SASSA Apply” in your phone’s contacts.
- Initiate a chat with the new SASSA Apply contact.
- Follow the step-by-step prompts to provide your information.
- You will receive an application reference number and URL link.
- Finalize the application process via the provided link.
Through the SASSA Chatbot
- Go to www.sassa.gov.za.
- Click on the “SASSA R350 Grant assistance chatbot” link.
- When prompted, input your ID number and cellphone number.
- Select the option: “I want to apply for SRD R350 grant”.
- Follow the chatbot’s instructions to complete the application.
In Person at a SASSA Office
- Find your nearest local SASSA office.
- Visit during operating hours and request an R350 application form.
- Provide your ID, proof of income, and other documents to the officer.
- Complete the printed application and submit it in person.
Be sure to provide accurate information and follow up within 90 days if your application is still pending. Reapply every month until successfully approved.
How South Africa’s Social Grants Can Provide Financial Relief
In addition to the temporary COVID R350 grant, South Africa’s other social grants can provide much-needed financial relief if you qualify:
Older Person’s Grant
The Older Person’s Grant provides R1,980 per month to South African seniors over 60 with limited income. This helps cover basic costs like food, utilities, and housing. Apply at SASSA offices.
Disability Grant
Citizens between 18 and 59 years old with a permanent disability preventing work can apply for the Disability Grant of R1,980 monthly. Medical assessments will be required.
Grant-in-Aid
This adds R490 per month to existing Old Age, War Veteran, or Disability grants for those requiring full-time care from another person. Apply by submitting the required forms.
Care Dependency Grant
Parents, caregivers, and foster parents caring for a disabled child under 18 can apply for this R1,980 monthly grant to assist with costs. Official forms and medical reports will need to be submitted.
Foster Child Grant
R1,080 per month is provided to registered foster parents caring for a child legally placed in their custody. This can help cover the child’s needs. Apply through your provincial DSD office.
Child Support Grant
Low-income parents and primary caregivers of children under 18 can apply for this R480 monthly grant to help provide basic nutrition, clothing, and shelter. Caregiver must meet income criteria.
War Veteran’s Grant
South African veterans who fought in World War 1 or 2 can receive R1,980 monthly. Spouses of deceased war veterans are also eligible to apply. Supporting documents will need to be provided.
Applying for these grants requires submitting the proper forms and documentation. Local SASSA offices can assist applicants throughout the process. Proper utilization of South Africa’s social grants policy provides essential support to the most vulnerable.
Frequently Asked Questions About SASSA Grants
These are answers to some common questions regarding South Africa’s SASSA grants:
How can non-citizens apply for the R350 grant?
Asylum seekers, refugees, and special permit holders can qualify. Provide your visa, asylum papers or refugee ID when applying.
Are permanent residents eligible for SASSA grants?
Yes, permanent residents can apply for the Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, and others as long as they meet the requirements.
Can I appeal if my R350 grant is declined?
Yes, visit your nearest SASSA office within 90 days to appeal the decision and provide reasons why you qualify.
What if my status shows no payment date yet?
Your payment date will be displayed via SMS once your grant is approved. Dates vary monthly. Check your status regularly.
How do I add or change my bank details?
Visit your closest SASSA office to fill out and submit the required form with your new bank account evidence.
Can I apply at any SASSA service office nationwide?
You can apply at any SASSA office but grants are paid from the province linked to your ID. Visit KZN offices if your ID is issued in KwaZulu-Natal, for example.
What should I do if my ID verification fails?
If your ID cannot be verified, visit Home Affairs immediately to rectify any issues causing this. Then inform SASSA.
How can I get the contact details for my nearest SASSA office?
Call the SASSA contact center on 0800 601 011. Select option 6 to get your closest office’s address, email, and phone number.
What documents do I need to apply in person?
Bring your ID, proof of income or lack thereof, disability or medical documents if relevant, birth certificates for child grants, and refugee/asylum papers for non-citizens.
Who can I contact if I’m having issues getting my grant?
Call 0800 601 011 or visit your nearest SASSA office if you experience any issues applying, checking your status, or receiving approved funds.
Navigating South Africa’s social grants system can be challenging but is essential for millions of vulnerable citizens. We hope this guide has provided extensive details on checking your R350 grant status online, eligibility criteria, how to apply, payment schedules, and more. Reach out to SASSA for any other assistance required.