New UBIG Grant 2025 – In a major update for millions of South Africans, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially announced a revised payment structure under the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, which now falls under the proposed Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) framework. This change is aimed at delivering long-term financial stability to vulnerable citizens post-COVID and amidst economic challenges. Starting May 2025, beneficiaries can expect structured disbursements, eligibility adjustments, and new verification protocols.
What Is the New UBIG Grant 2025 and Why It Replaces SRD?
The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) is envisioned as a permanent solution to poverty alleviation, replacing the temporary SRD R350 Grant. While SRD was initially a COVID-era emergency intervention, UBIG aims to offer long-term monthly support to unemployed adults aged 18-59.
Key Features of the UBIG Grant:
- Replaces SRD R350 with a higher, inflation-linked payment
- Covers unemployed individuals not qualifying for other grants
- Includes new verification and fraud-prevention checks
- Offers fixed monthly payments starting May 2025
- Focused on digital and bank payment systems
UBIG Grant Payment Structure Effective May 2025
SASSA has finalized the monthly payout structure for the UBIG Grant, based on income thresholds, household size, and eligibility.
Revised UBIG Payment Table:
| Category | Monthly Payment (ZAR) | Payment Mode | Eligibility Criteria | Bank Account Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (Unemployed, Age 18–59) | R624 | Bank/E-wallet | No income, not receiving other grants | Yes |
| Single-parent Household | R750 | Bank/E-wallet | With dependents under 18 | Yes |
| Youth (18–24, Graduated/Jobless) | R500 | Bank/E-wallet | Not studying or working | Yes |
| Urban Poor (Verified Residence) | R680 | Bank/E-wallet | Based on housing and location criteria | Yes |
| Rural Beneficiaries | R720 | Cash/Post Office | No access to bank accounts | No |
| Disabled (Not on Disability Grant) | R800 | Bank/E-wallet | Temporary disability or pending application | Yes |
| Refugees/Asylum Seekers (Verified) | R500 | Bank/E-wallet | Legal documentation needed | Yes |
| Former SRD Recipients (Auto-Upgraded) | R624 | Bank/E-wallet | Auto migration from SRD register | Yes |
New UBI Scheme Launches in Place of SRD – New Grant System to Replace Old Structure This Month
Note: Payments will be made monthly on a staggered schedule based on ID number or surname, starting from 15 May 2025.
Eligibility and Application Process for May 2025
SASSA has streamlined the application and verification process to reduce delays and fraudulent claims. Here’s what applicants need to know:
Eligibility Checklist:
- Age: 18–59 years old
- Must not be receiving NSFAS, UIF, or other government grants
- Monthly income must be below R624
- Valid South African ID or asylum documents
- Active bank account or mobile number
How to Apply:
- Visit the official SASSA website or SRD portal
- Upload required documents (ID, proof of residence, etc.)
- Provide banking details for fast disbursement
- Await SMS confirmation of status
- Re-apply or update every 6 months
New Verification Rules Under UBIG Scheme
With fraud cases rising under SRD, SASSA has introduced strict identity verification and real-time database checks. The following new rules apply:
Key Verification Updates:
- Biometric verification via face recognition for mobile applicants
- Bank account validation using linked ID
- Random re-screening every 3 months
- Cross-checks with SARS, Home Affairs, and UIF
Important: Failure to verify within 30 days of notification may lead to temporary suspension of grant payments.
Monthly Payment Schedule: When Will You Be Paid?
To ensure smoother transactions, SASSA has adopted a rotational payment model by ID number grouping:
| Last 3 Digits of ID | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 000–199 | 15 May 2025 |
| 200–399 | 16 May 2025 |
| 400–599 | 17 May 2025 |
| 600–799 | 20 May 2025 |
| 800–999 | 21 May 2025 |
| Manual Verifications | 22–24 May 2025 |
Payments will reflect within 24-72 hours after the release date depending on the bank.
SASSA Contact Details for UBIG and SRD Queries
If you face issues with payment, verification, or eligibility, reach out to SASSA through the following channels:
SASSA Contact Centre:
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Operating Hours: Mon–Fri, 8 AM to 4 PM
For Appeals and Application Updates:
- SRD Portal: srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- Use ID + Mobile OTP to log in and check status or appeal
FAQs – New UBIG Grant 2025
Q1: Is the UBIG Grant permanent?
Yes, UBIG is part of the government’s long-term poverty alleviation strategy replacing the temporary SRD R350.
Q2: Can I receive UBIG if I already get a child support grant?
No, UBIG is for individuals not receiving other social grants.
Q3: What happens if my application is rejected?
You can file an appeal on the SRD portal within 30 days of receiving the rejection.
Q4: Will the payment always be R624?
No, the amount may be adjusted annually for inflation or based on government review.
Q5: What if I don’t have a bank account?
SASSA encourages opening a basic bank account, but cash collection points will be available in rural areas.
Conclusion of New UBIG Grant 2025
The transition from SRD to UBIG marks a new chapter in South Africa’s fight against poverty and economic inequality. With improved payment structures, verification protocols, and broader eligibility, the UBIG Grant from May 2025 promises a more inclusive safety net for those left behind. Applicants are urged to ensure accurate documentation and bank details to avoid delays. For ongoing updates, always refer to the official SASSA website.
