Unemployment is a harsh reality for millions of South Africans. If you are currently without a job and struggling to make ends meet, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant is designed to assist you.
Formerly known as the R350 grant, this lifeline has been increased to R370 in 2026. While the amount is small, it provides essential support for buying food, electricity, or data to apply for jobs.
However, many eligible South Africans miss out simply because they don’t know how to apply correctly. Or worse, they apply but get rejected because they made a simple mistake on the form.
Did you know you can apply entirely on your phone via WhatsApp? Or that specific income limits might disqualify you?
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire SASSA R370 Application Process. We will explain the strict eligibility rules, show you how to apply using WhatsApp or the Website, and tell you what to do after you click “Submit”.
Do You Qualify?
Before you waste time applying, you must ensure you meet the strict criteria. SASSA checks your ID against multiple databases (Home Affairs, UIF, SARS, NSFAS).
To qualify for the R370 Grant, you must be:
- A South African Citizen, Permanent Resident, Refugee, or Asylum Seeker.
- Between 18 and 60 years old. (If you are 60+, you should apply for the Old Age Grant).
- Unemployed and NOT receiving any other social grant (like Child Support or Disability).
- Not receiving UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) payments.
- Not receiving NSFAS (Student financial aid).
- Not residing in a government-funded institution (e.g., prison or state care home).
The “Means Test” (Income Threshold)
This is the most common reason for rejection.
- To qualify, you must have NO income or an income of less than R624 per month.
- Important: If your family sends you R700 via E-Wallet or bank transfer, SASSA considers this “income” and will decline your application for that month.
How to Apply via WhatsApp
Most South Africans prefer this method because it is data-efficient and feels like chatting with a friend.
Step 1: Save the Number
Add the official SASSA WhatsApp bot to your contacts: 082 046 8553.
Step 2: Start the Chat
- Open WhatsApp and send a message saying “Apply” or “Sassa”.
- The bot will reply with a welcome message.
Step 3: Select “Apply for SRD Grant”
- Reply with the number corresponding to “Apply for SRD Grant”.
- The bot will ask for your personal details.
Step 4: Chat Confirmation
- You will need to type in your ID Number.
- You will need to confirm your Citizenship status.
- The bot will provide a link to a secure website form to finalize the process (this is to protect your POPIA data). Click the link to finish the application.
Tip: The WhatsApp line can be very slow at the beginning of the month. If the bot doesn’t reply, try the website method below.
How to Apply via the Website
Using the website is often faster and gives you a clearer confirmation screen.
Step 1: Visit the Portal
Go to: https://srd.sassa.gov.za (Warning: Only use this official .gov.za link. Scammers create fake sites to steal IDs).
Step 2: Find the “Click Here to Apply” Button
On the homepage, look for the yellow/green bar that says “How do I apply for this grant”. Click the relevant button for the current cycle.
Step 3: Enter Mobile Number
- Enter your cellphone number.
- Click “Send SMS”.
- You will receive a 6-digit OTP (One Time Pin). Enter this pin on the screen.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
Once verified, you must fill in your details:
- ID Number
- Name and Surname (Exactly as they appear in your ID Book).
- Gender
- Address (Province, Town, Street Code).
Step 5: Screening Questions
You will be asked YES/NO questions.
- “Do you have a job?” -> Answer NO.
- “Do you receive UIF?” -> Answer NO.
- Be honest. SASSA cross-checks this data.
Step 6: Banking Details
You will be asked how you want to be paid.
- Option A: Upload your personal Bank Account details (Recommended).
- Option B: Choose “Cash Send” to collect at a retailer (Shoprite/Boxer/Checkers).
Step 7: Submit
Review your info and click Submit. You should see a message confirming your application has been received.
What Happens After You Apply?
Now, the waiting game begins. You will NOT get an answer immediately.
The Verification Process:
- Validation: SASSA sends your ID to the Department of Home Affairs to verify you exist.
- Database Check: They check SARS and UIF databases to see if you are earning money.
- Fraud Check: They check if your ID is flagged for fraud.
How long does it take?
It usually takes 7 to 14 days for your application to be processed.
You will not always get an SMS. You must proactively check your status.
How to Check Your Application Result
Once you have applied, you don’t need to apply again every month. However, you must check if you are approved.
- Go to
srd.sassa.gov.za. - Scroll to “Check Status”.
- Enter your ID and Phone Number.
- Look for the current month (e.g., January 2026).
- “Approved”: Success! Wait for the pay date.
- “Declined”: Failure. The system will give a reason (e.g., “UIF Registered”).
- “Pending”: Still checking. Check again later.
(For a full guide on what these statuses mean, read our article: How to Check Your SASSA SRD Status).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people get rejected for silly reasons. Don’t make these mistakes:
1. Using Someone Else’s Phone Number
The number you apply with becomes your “Username”. If you lose that SIM card, you lose access to your application. Always use your own RICA’d SIM.
2. Spelling Errors
If your name is “Matthews” but you type “Mathew”, Home Affairs will flag it as a mismatch. Type carefully!
3. Providing False Info
If you are working a small job and earning R2000, do not lie. SASSA can see bank inflows. Fraudulent applications can lead to legal action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. SASSA now checks your eligibility automatically every month. You only apply once. However, if your status was declined, you may need to lodge an Appeal.
No. The SRD grant is for adults (18-60). For children, you must apply for the Child Support Grant at a physical SASSA office.
Generally, no. Most students receive NSFAS or support from parents. If you are a student without NSFAS and without parental support, you might qualify, but the screening is strict.
Conclusion
Applying for the R370 grant is the first step towards getting financial relief. While the system can be slow, following the correct steps on WhatsApp or the Website ensures your application enters the system without errors.
Remember, honesty is key. Ensure your details are accurate, and keep your phone number active.
Application Successful? Now you need to make sure your money lands in the right place. Read our guide on How to Change SASSA Banking Details to switch from Cash Send to a bank account for safer payments.
(Disclaimer: The Mzansi Post is an independent information guide. We are not SASSA. For official applications, visit srd.sassa.gov.za).