SASSA Grant Hike – In a major relief for millions of financially vulnerable South Africans, the government has announced sweeping social support measures under a newly introduced financial strategy titled ‘Budget 3.0’. This update comes amid increasing economic pressure, high food prices, and widespread unemployment. The Department of Social Development (DSD) and National Treasury jointly unveiled this initiative to enhance existing welfare programs. Notably, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grants have been increased and the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has been extended for another full year. These measures are designed to ease the cost of living and provide sustainable relief to low-income households, pensioners, and unemployed citizens. With more than 18 million grant recipients in South Africa, this announcement signals a powerful intervention to address poverty and social inequality.
What is ‘Budget 3.0’ and Why Was It Announced?
‘Budget 3.0’ is a special financial intervention introduced by the South African government in mid-2025 to address rising poverty and economic distress. It aims to expand social protection by increasing grant amounts and extending relief programs like the SRD grant for the unemployed and low-income citizens. ‘Budget 3.0’ is an emergency budget revision introduced in mid-2025 to reflect the urgent need for financial support across South Africa. Unlike the annual February Budget or the October MTBPS (Medium Term Budget Policy Statement), this mid-cycle financial relief package focuses on protecting vulnerable groups through expanded social assistance programs.
Key objectives of Budget 3.0:
- Improve monthly income for SASSA grant recipients through inflation-adjusted increases.
- Continue financial support for unemployed South Africans via the SRD R350 grant extension.
- Expand access and reduce administrative delays in grant payments.
- Boost economic participation through conditional support measures.
This decision follows months of consultation with civil society, NGOs, and economic experts who warned of growing instability if income support was not bolstered urgently.
Revised Grant Amounts as per ‘Budget 3.0’
SASSA beneficiaries can expect to receive increased monthly payments starting from August 2025. These revised amounts have been calibrated based on inflation rates, food basket cost studies, and living wage estimates. The grant increases are designed to better meet the basic needs of recipients while ensuring sustainable government spending. These adjustments were made after thorough consultations and economic assessments to ensure that the revised payouts align with the rising cost of essential goods and services, offering recipients more financial breathing room each month.
| Grant Type | Previous Amount | New Amount (from August 2025) | Monthly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age (under 75) | R2,180 | R2,330 | R150 |
| Old Age (75+) | R2,200 | R2,350 | R150 |
| Disability Grant | R2,180 | R2,330 | R150 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R2,330 | R150 |
| Child Support Grant | R530 | R610 | R80 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,180 | R1,280 | R100 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,200 | R2,350 | R150 |
| SRD (R350) Grant | R350 | Unchanged, Extended to July 2026 | – |
It is important to note that these new rates will be applied automatically for existing beneficiaries. There is no need for current recipients to reapply for the increase.
SRD Grant Extension: New Timeline and Application Process
The SRD R350 grant, initially introduced in 2020 as a temporary COVID-19 relief measure, has now been extended until July 2026 under Budget 3.0. This marks the most extended lifespan of the grant since its inception, reflecting its importance as a safety net for the unemployed.
Details of the SRD extension include:
- Grant Value: R350 per month
- Duration: August 2025 to July 2026
- Application Mode: Online only via https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Reapplication: Not required, but beneficiaries must confirm eligibility every 3 months
New applicants can still apply online, while existing recipients must ensure their information is updated. Verification of eligibility will now include automated data crosschecks to minimize delays and fraud.
Budget 3.0’s Impact and Key Benefits for Citizens
The 2025 Budget 3.0 package is being seen as a turning point in South Africa’s social support landscape. Here’s how citizens will benefit:
- Higher monthly payouts for pensioners, children, and people with disabilities.
- A longer support cycle for unemployed citizens via the SRD extension.
- Improved digital processing for faster application results and fewer delays.
- Enhanced support for caregivers and foster parents.
- Protection against inflation and rising basic living costs.
- Encouragement for economic inclusion by stabilizing household incomes.
Payment Schedule for August 2025
Below is the expected payment schedule for August 2025. Note that dates may vary slightly based on the region and public holidays.
| Grant Category | Expected Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | 1 August 2025 |
| Disability Grant | 2 August 2025 |
| Child Support & Others | 5 August 2025 |
| SRD R350 | 5–15 August 2025 |
Payments will be made via direct deposit to bank accounts, SASSA cards, and selected retail partners like Pick n Pay, Shoprite, and Boxer.
Tips to Avoid Grant Payment Delays
To ensure that your payments are processed without delay:
- Keep your mobile number active and linked to your application.
- Use the official SASSA website for updates and changes.
- Update your banking details immediately if anything changes.
- Regularly check your grant status via the SASSA SRD portal.
- Ensure that you comply with the quarterly income confirmation requirement for the SRD grant.
Budget 3.0 represents a vital commitment from the South African government to protect the dignity and survival of its most vulnerable citizens. With grant increases across all major categories and the crucial extension of the R350 SRD grant, millions stand to gain real financial relief. Beneficiaries are advised to stay updated via official platforms and ensure that all personal and banking information remains current to avoid missing out on these critical payments.
Departmental Contact Information for Help and Queries
If you need help with your SASSA or SRD grant, you can reach out through the following official channels:
South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
- Phone: 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free)
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za
- Status check: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
Department of Social Development (DSD)
- Phone: 012 312 7500
- Website: https://www.dsd.gov.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the new SASSA grant increases take effect?
From 1 August 2025, beneficiaries will receive the revised amounts.
Q2. Do I need to apply again for the increased grants?
No. Increases are automatic for current recipients.
Q3. What is the SRD confirmation process?
SRD grant beneficiaries must confirm that they still qualify every 3 months via the official SRD portal.
Q4. Will the SRD grant continue beyond 2026?
The government is reviewing the feasibility of a Basic Income Grant. Further updates will be shared in the 2026 budget cycle.
Q5. Can I still apply for the SRD grant if I’m unemployed now?
Yes. Applications are open on https://srd.sassa.gov.za.