R10 Electricity Voucher – In a much-needed relief for millions of South Africans, the government has confirmed the return of the R10 electricity voucher for SASSA beneficiaries starting July 2025. This initiative aims to support low-income households amidst the ongoing economic struggles and persistent load shedding challenges. The Department of Social Development, in collaboration with Eskom and local municipalities, is reinstating the program to ease the burden on SASSA grant recipients, especially those relying on prepaid electricity systems. The R10 electricity voucher was previously introduced as part of energy relief efforts for vulnerable citizens, particularly grant recipients such as those receiving the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, and Child Support Grant. Due to budget constraints, the initiative had been temporarily halted earlier in the year. However, following public demand and discussions within the Cabinet, the government has decided to resume the program nationwide. Starting from July 1, 2025, eligible SASSA users will be able to claim the R10 voucher each month via designated platforms and outlets. This article explains how to check eligibility, claim your voucher, and avoid common issues that may delay your benefit.
Eligibility Criteria for R10 Electricity Voucher in July 2025
To receive the R10 electricity voucher in July, certain eligibility rules apply. These are meant to ensure that the benefit reaches only those who truly need it.
- You must be an active SASSA grant beneficiary (Old Age, Disability, Child Support, or SRD).
- You must reside in a household using a prepaid electricity meter.
- Only one voucher per household is allowed per month.
- Your SASSA grant must be collected through a SASSA card, Postbank, or approved bank.
- You must not be receiving any other energy subsidy from a municipality.
- Your household income must not exceed the qualifying threshold.
- Your prepaid meter must be registered in your name or with proof of residence.
How to Claim the R10 Electricity Voucher Step by Step
Eligible beneficiaries can claim the R10 voucher using several official channels. Here’s how you can do it:
- Through USSD Code: Dial the code 130869# from your registered mobile number.
- At Spaza Shops: Show your SASSA card and ID; receive the token instantly.
- At Post Offices: Visit with your SASSA card and request a voucher at the counter.
- Via Pick n Pay or Shoprite: Present your ID and SASSA card; receive token on receipt.
- Through Mobile App (if available in your municipality).
- Municipal Energy Offices: Some areas allow walk-in registrations for manual claim.
- Token sent via SMS: In some regions, you’ll receive the token automatically via SMS.
- Once redeemed, you’ll input the 20-digit token into your prepaid meter to load R10 value.
Important Dates and Deadlines to Remember for R10 Electricity Voucher
SASSA users must stay updated on important dates for claiming the electricity voucher to avoid missing out.
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Voucher program restarts | July 1, 2025 |
| First voucher claim opens | July 1 – July 31, 2025 |
| Monthly claim window | 1st – last day of each month |
| Last day for July voucher claim | July 31, 2025 |
| Next voucher cycle starts | August 1, 2025 |
| Auto SMS dispatch starts | July 3, 2025 |
| System update cutoff (if applicable) | July 25, 2025 |
How to Check If Your Prepaid Meter Is Registered for the R10 Electricity Voucher
Before claiming the voucher, ensure your prepaid electricity meter is registered in the municipality database.
- Dial 12047678# to check registration status.
- Use the Eskom MyPower app for registered users.
- Visit your local municipal office with proof of residence.
- Submit your prepaid meter number and ID for verification.
- If unregistered, fill out the Meter Registration Form at local offices.
- Processing takes 3–7 working days after submission.
Provinces and Areas Covered Under July 2025 Voucher Rollout
This phase will cover almost all provinces, but implementation may vary slightly by municipality.
| Province | Voucher Rollout Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | Active | Johannesburg and Tshwane covered |
| KwaZulu-Natal | Active | Durban and rural areas supported |
| Western Cape | Active | Cape Town already sending SMS vouchers |
| Eastern Cape | Active | Voucher via municipal office |
| Limpopo | Active | Must register at local ward offices |
| North West | Partial Rollout | Only in Rustenburg and Mahikeng |
| Free State | Active | Token redeem at Boxer, Shoprite |
| Mpumalanga | Partial Rollout | Some municipalities still onboarding |
| Northern Cape | Pending | Rollout to begin July 10, 2025 |
Common Problems While Claiming the Voucher and How to Fix Them
Several users faced delays or rejection in the past. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Wrong meter number entered: Always double-check the 11-digit meter ID.
- Name mismatch: Ensure your SASSA name matches the meter owner’s name.
- Old phone number: Update your mobile number at SASSA office to receive SMS tokens.
- Unregistered prepaid meter: Visit the municipality or Eskom to register.
- Expired ID document: Keep your ID valid and bring physical copy when needed.
- Trying to claim multiple times: Only one voucher is allowed per household per month.
Benefits of the R10 Electricity Voucher for SASSA Users
The R10 voucher may seem small, but it offers significant support to grant beneficiaries.
- Reduces the burden of energy costs for low-income households.
- Ensures basic lighting and cooking needs are met during load shedding.
- Helps improve monthly budgeting for social grant users.
- Provides safety net for emergency electricity usage.
- Empowers rural residents with limited access to other energy sources.
- Encourages proper use of prepaid electricity systems.
Can I Claim the Voucher If I Use Postbank for My SASSA Payment?
Yes. If your SASSA payments are deposited into Postbank, you are eligible to claim the R10 electricity voucher as long as you meet the other criteria. You will be able to access the token via:
- SMS notification
- Post Office counter service
- Approved spaza shops linked to SASSA/Postbank
Make sure your mobile number is linked to your Postbank profile.
Will the R10 Voucher Be Available Every Month?
According to the Department of Social Development, the R10 electricity voucher is expected to be a monthly recurring benefit from July 2025 onwards. However, it depends on:
- Budget availability
- Municipal system updates
- Prepaid meter registration records
It is recommended to claim your voucher early each month to avoid delays or depletion of allocated funds.
The R10 electricity voucher may be small, but it plays a critical role in helping South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens stay connected and safe. SASSA users are encouraged to check their eligibility, ensure their meter is registered, and claim the benefit every month on time. For further clarity or help, reach out to SASSA or your local municipality without delay.
FAQs of R10 Electricity Voucher
Q1: Can I claim the R10 electricity voucher without a prepaid meter?
No, the voucher only applies to prepaid electricity systems. If you’re on a postpaid (monthly bill) system, you are not eligible.
Q2: What happens if I don’t receive the SMS with my voucher token?
Check if your number is registered with SASSA or visit your nearest Post Office or municipal center to request a manual printout.
Q3: Is there a deadline each month to redeem the token?
Yes, the voucher token must be claimed and loaded before the end of each month.
Q4: Can someone else claim the voucher on my behalf?
Only if they have your original ID and proof of SASSA grant ownership. However, this is discouraged due to fraud risks.
Q5: Will I get this benefit automatically every month?
In some areas, tokens will be sent automatically. In others, you may need to claim manually. Always check your eligibility status monthly.