How to Apply for the SASSA Unemployment Grant: A Simple Guide

Imagine you’re at home, worrying about how to pay for groceries or your next bus ride to a job interview. Money’s tight, and you’re not sure where to turn. If this feels familiar, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Unemployment Grant could be a big help. Also called the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, it gives R1,370 every month to people who need it most. As of May 2025, this grant is bigger than ever to help with rising costs.

This blog is your friendly guide to applying for the SASSA Unemployment Grant. We’ll explain who can get it, how to apply, and when you’ll see the money. It’s written in simple words, so everyone, even younger readers, can understand. Let’s get started!

A small step today can make tomorrow a little brighter. – Take a moment to see how this grant can help you.

What Is the SASSA Unemployment Grant?

The SASSA Unemployment Grant is money the government gives every month to people who don’t have a job and are struggling. It started in 2020 to help during tough times, and now it’s R1,370 per month in 2025. That’s more than before because things like food and transport cost more these days.

This grant isn’t forever, but it can help you buy things like bread, milk, or clothes while you look for work. It’s for all kinds of people, like young caregivers, refugees, or anyone who’s hit a rough patch.

Who Can Get This Grant?

Before you apply, let’s check if you can get the grant. SASSA has simple rules to make sure the money goes to people who really need it. Here’s what you need:

Age: You must be 18 to 59 years old. If you’re 60 or older, there’s another grant for you.
Where You Live: You need to be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or have a special permit (like from Zimbabwe or Lesotho).
Money You Earn: You can’t earn more than R624 a month if you’re single. This counts any cash from odd jobs or family help.
No Other Help: You can’t get another SASSA grant (except for kids’ grants) or money like UIF or NSFAS.
No Job: You must not have a job or get other government help.

Also Check How to Appeal a SASSA Grant Rejection: A Step-by-Step Guide

If this sounds like you, you’re ready to apply! If you’re not sure, SASSA checks everything when you send in your application.

Why This Grant Is So Helpful?

You might think, “R1,370 isn’t a lot.” But it can buy a bag of groceries, pay for a few trips to town, or help with rent. For many people, it means not having to choose between food and school supplies. The jump to R1,370 in 2025 shows the government wants to fight poverty and help people like caregivers, those with disabilities, or anyone without work.

You can also pick how to get the money through your bank, a SASSA card, or even cash at a pick-up spot. It’s made to work for you, whether you’re in a big city or a small village.

How to Apply for the SASSA Unemployment Grant?

Applying is easier than it sounds. You can do it from home on your phone or go to a SASSA office for help. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Get Your Papers Ready

You’ll need a few things before you start:

Your ID: A South African ID (the green book, smart card, or 13-digit number). Refugees need a permit or asylum papers.
Proof of Where You Live: A bill, rent agreement, or a signed letter saying where you stay.
Proof You Don’t Earn Much: Bank statements (last 3 months), a letter saying you’re jobless, or a note if you got fired.
Your Phone Number: You need a working phone number to get messages from SASSA.

You don’t need to scan papers for online applications, SASSA checks your info with government records.

Step 2: Pick How to Apply

There are a few ways to apply. Choose the one that’s easiest for you:

Online:

1. Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za on your phone or computer.

2. Type in your ID number and phone number.

3. Press “Send SMS” to get a secret code (called an OTP).

4. Follow the steps to fill out the form.

5. Send it and wait for a text with your application number.

WhatsApp:

1. Save SASSA’s number: 082 046 8553.

2. Send a WhatsApp saying “SASSA.”

3. When they reply, say “SRD R350 Application.”

4. Give your ID number and follow their instructions.

In-Person:

1. Visit a SASSA office near you (find one at sassa.gov.za or call 0800 60 10 11).

Also Check A Comprehensive Guide to the 2024 SASSA R350 SRD Grant Reapplication

2. Bring your papers and ask for the SRD Grant form.

3. A SASSA worker will help you and give you a receipt.

Phone Code:

1. Dial 1347737# on your phone.

2. Answer questions about your ID and phone number.

3. Send your application through the phone.

Step 3: Wait for SASSA to Check

After you apply, SASSA takes 30 to 90 days to look at your application. They check your info with places like Home Affairs to make sure you qualify. You’ll get a text or email saying if you’re approved or not.

Step 4: What to Do if They Say No

If SASSA says no, you can ask them to look again. This is called an appeal, and you have 90 days to do it:

Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals.
Type in your ID and explain why you think they made a mistake.
Or visit a SASSA office to appeal in person.

You might get turned down if you earn too much, get another grant, or your ID info doesn’t match. An appeal lets SASSA double-check.

How You Get Paid and When?

If SASSA says yes, yay! You’ll get R1,370 every month starting the month after you’re approved. Here’s how it works:

Ways to Get Your Money

Pick one of these when you apply:

Bank Account: The money goes right to your bank. Update your bank details on srd.sassa.gov.za if they change.
SASSA Card: Use it to get cash at ATMs or buy things at stores like Shoprite.
Cash Pick-Up: Get cash at special spots, great for places without banks.
Post Office or Stores: Collect your money at a Post Office or shops like Boxer or Checkers.

When You Get Paid?

SASSA pays around the 20th of each month (or the next workday if it’s a weekend). To find your exact date:

Check srd.sassa.gov.za with your ID and phone number.
Use the Moya App (no data needed) or WhatsApp (082 046 8553).
Call 0800 60 10 11.

SASSA sends a text with your payment date, so don’t lose your phone. If you miss picking up your money, it stays safe until you get it.

Tips to Make Applying Easy

Applying can feel tricky, but these tips will help:

Check Your Info: Make sure your ID and phone number are right. One mistake can slow things down.
Keep Your Phone On: SASSA sends texts, so don’t change your number.
Update Your Bank: If you get a new bank account, tell SASSA on their website.
Use Real SASSA Sites: Only use srd.sassa.gov.za or SASSA offices to stay safe from scams.
Be Patient: It takes time, but you can check your application status online or on WhatsApp.

Also Check SASSA Status Check 2024: Key Dates for SRD R370 Payments

What to Do if Something Goes Wrong?

Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here’s how to fix common problems:

Application says “Already Active”: Someone might have used your ID. Call SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 or visit an office to fix it.
Lost Your Phone Number: Change your number on srd.sassa.gov.za or at a SASSA office.
Declined for No Reason: Appeal with proof like bank statements showing you don’t earn much.
Money Didn’t Come: Check your status online or call SASSA to make sure your bank info is correct.

SASSA’s phone line and WhatsApp are there to help, so reach out if you’re stuck.

Ready to Apply? You Can Do It!

Applying for the SASSA Unemployment Grant is simpler than it seems. Whether you’re using your phone or visiting a SASSA office, you’re taking a big step to make life a little easier. Grab your ID, make sure you qualify, and send in your application.

Life can be hard, but you’re strong enough to keep going. This grant is here to give you a hand, so don’t wait, apply now and let SASSA support you. Got questions? Share them below or call SASSA at 0800 60 10 11. Here’s to a little extra help and brighter days ahead!