SRD Grant Stopped – In a major shift, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially ended the Temporary SRD R350 Grant and confirmed the rollout of a new Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) starting May 15, 2025. This announcement has sparked widespread public attention as it impacts millions of low-income citizens who previously relied on the SRD grant for survival. The new UBIG promises long-term monthly support, but comes with updated eligibility requirements and documentation procedures.
Why Has the SRD Grant Stopped?
The SRD (Social Relief of Distress) Grant, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, was designed as an emergency temporary relief. However, the government has long hinted at moving toward a sustainable and inclusive income support model for the unemployed and vulnerable.
Key reasons for discontinuation:
- It was never meant to be a permanent solution.
- Funding constraints and fraud risks demanded a better system.
- Government’s shift towards Universal Basic Income as part of long-term social security reforms.
Timeline of the Change:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Final SRD Grant Payment | April 2025 |
| UBIG Announcement | May 1, 2025 |
| UBIG Rollout Begins | May 15, 2025 |
| Last Day to Submit Documents | June 30, 2025 |
| Monthly UBIG Payments Begin | From June 2025 |
| Biometric ID Check Deadline | July 15, 2025 |
What Is the UBIG Grant and How Is It Different?
The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) is a long-term support initiative aimed at reducing poverty and inequality. Unlike the SRD grant, which had fixed eligibility, the UBIG includes more flexible conditions and provides a higher monthly payment.
Key Differences Between SRD and UBIG
| Feature | SRD Grant (Ended) | UBIG Grant (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R550 |
| Type | Temporary Relief | Permanent Basic Income |
| Required Documents | ID, Phone Number | ID, Bank Details, Proof of Unemployment |
| Age Limit | 18-59 | 18-59 |
| Duration | Temporary | Ongoing |
| Payment Method | Bank/Post Office | Direct to Bank Account |
| Biometric Verification | No | Yes (from July) |
Eligibility Criteria for UBIG Grant in 2025
To qualify for the new UBIG, applicants must meet specific updated conditions. SASSA has tightened the process to ensure only genuinely eligible individuals benefit from the scheme.
Eligibility Checklist:
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Aged between 18 and 59 years
- Unemployed and not receiving any other income support (including NSFAS, UIF, or government grants)
- Monthly income less than R624
- Must provide a valid South African ID
- Registered bank account in the applicant’s name
- Passed biometric verification (face & fingerprint scan)
Required Documents for UBIG Registration
Applicants need to re-submit documentation, even if they were previously approved under SRD.
Updated List of Documents:
- Original South African ID
- Recent bank statement (last 3 months)
- Proof of address
- Proof of unemployment (if applicable)
- Mobile number registered under your ID
- Proof of residence (utility bill or affidavit)
Important: All documents must be clear, valid, and recently updated. Any discrepancies will lead to payment delays.
UBIG Payment Dates & Method – Full Schedule
UBIG grants will be paid out monthly, starting June 2025. SASSA has released a tentative schedule for beneficiaries.
Tentative UBIG Payment Calendar 2025:
| Month | Payment Start Date | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | June 10 | Bank Transfer Only |
| July 2025 | July 12 | Bank Transfer Only |
| August 2025 | August 10 | Bank Transfer Only |
| September 2025 | September 12 | Bank Transfer Only |
| October 2025 | October 10 | Bank Transfer Only |
| November 2025 | November 12 | Bank Transfer Only |
| December 2025 | December 10 | Bank Transfer Only |
FAQs – SRD Grant Stopped
Q1. Can I still apply if I was rejected for SRD previously?
Yes. The UBIG application process is fresh, and previous SRD rejection does not disqualify you.
Q2. Is biometric verification mandatory?
Yes. From July 2025, all recipients must complete biometric verification via SASSA-approved centres.
Q3. Will I lose my grant if I don’t update my documents?
Yes. Failure to update your details and documents by June 30, 2025, will lead to payment suspension.
Q4. Can I collect the UBIG at a post office?
No. UBIG will only be paid via direct bank deposit to reduce fraud and improve efficiency.
Q5. What if I do not have a bank account?
You must open a bank account in your name before applying. SASSA will not approve applications without this.
Q6. How do I update my contact details?
Visit the nearest SASSA office or update online through the official portal (if available in future phases).
Q7. Will the amount increase in future?
The government has not announced any increase yet, but annual adjustments may be considered based on inflation and budget.
How to Apply for the New UBIG Grant
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step-by-step UBIG Application Guide:
- Prepare all required documents in digital format.
- Visit the official SASSA website or local SASSA office.
- Submit your application along with supporting documents.
- Await confirmation via SMS.
- Complete biometric verification if required.
- Track your status online or at the SASSA office.
Important: Ensure your mobile number is active and registered under your ID.
SASSA Contact Details and Help Desks
If you face issues during application, contact SASSA directly:
SASSA National Call Centre
Phone: 0800 60 10 11
Email: [email protected]
Regional SASSA Offices (Key Contacts):
| Province | Contact Number | Office Email |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 011 241 8320 | [email protected] |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 033 846 3400 | [email protected] |
| Western Cape | 021 469 0235 | [email protected] |
| Eastern Cape | 043 707 6300 | [email protected] |
| Limpopo | 015 291 7500 | [email protected] |
| Mpumalanga | 013 754 9447 | [email protected] |
| Free State | 051 410 8339 | [email protected] |
Conclusion of SRD Grant Stopped
The end of the SRD Grant marks the beginning of a more structured and sustainable UBIG system that aims to provide better, more inclusive support to South Africa’s vulnerable populations. If you were relying on the SRD grant, it is crucial that you now submit updated documents, verify your identity, and enroll for UBIG before June 30, 2025, to ensure uninterrupted payments. For any confusion, reach out to your nearest SASSA office or helpline for guidance.
