Universal R750 Monthly Income – In a dramatic policy shift that could change the lives of millions of South Africans, a confidential draft plan leaked by a Member of Parliament (MP) has revealed that the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant may be replaced with a Universal Basic Income (UBI) of R750 per month, starting August 1, 2025. The news, though not yet officially confirmed by the Department of Social Development or SASSA, has already sparked widespread public interest and debate. The draft outlines the transition from the temporary R350 grant to a permanent monthly income model aimed at providing broader financial support to unemployed adults between 18–59 years old. According to the MP who leaked the document, the R750 Universal Income would be unconditional and available to all qualifying adults regardless of previous application history, making it South Africa’s first official step toward a national UBI framework. Since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic, the R350 SRD grant has served as a vital safety net for more than 7 million low-income individuals. But over time, the limitations of the R350 amount, along with inconsistent payment issues, have drawn criticism. With rising inflation, fuel prices, and unemployment, many have called for an expansion or overhaul of the program. The leaked draft suggests that the new R750 payment structure will be rolled out in a phased approach, beginning with current SRD beneficiaries. Later phases will include unemployed individuals not previously covered. The Department of Finance is expected to reallocate budget portions to fund this shift, though concerns remain about sustainability and fraud risks. Here’s everything you need to know about the proposed Universal R750 grant, eligibility changes, rollout plan, and what this means for current SASSA beneficiaries.
What the Leaked Draft Reveals About the Universal R750 Monthly Income
According to the document, the proposed plan outlines a comprehensive transformation of the SASSA SRD framework into a broader and more inclusive income support system.
- The R350 SRD grant will be officially scrapped by July 31, 2025.
- Starting August 1, 2025, eligible citizens will receive R750 monthly.
- This R750 will be paid automatically via Postbank or approved partner banks.
- No reapplication will be needed for existing SRD recipients.
- The UBI model aims to expand access to all unemployed adults, not just those previously on the grant.
- Additional funding will be allocated via Treasury’s 2025 mid-year budget revision.
- Rollout will be done in three phases through the end of 2025.
Phased Rollout of the Universal R750 Monthly Income
The draft proposes a phased implementation strategy, with different sets of recipients added at each stage.
| Phase | Target Group | Rollout Date | Payment Method | Expected Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Current R350 SRD Recipients | Aug 1, 2025 | Postbank, EFT | 7.5 million |
| 2 | All Unemployed Adults Registered with UIF | Sep 15, 2025 | Bank Transfer | 2 million |
| 3 | All South African Citizens (18–59, Unemployed) | Nov 1, 2025 | Bank or Cash | 5–8 million |
| Ongoing | Reassessments & New Applications | Continuous | All Modes | To be confirmed |
Universal R750 Monthly Income – Major Eligibility Changes in the New Grant System
This new Universal Income will come with slightly altered eligibility rules, making it broader but with key verification steps to avoid fraud and duplication.
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Age group: 18–59 years.
- Must not be receiving other social grants or formal employment income.
- Identity and bank account must be verified with Home Affairs and SA Reserve Bank.
- Existing SRD grant recipients will be automatically migrated.
What You Don’t Need Under the New System
The new system aims to simplify the process by removing many of the hurdles seen in the current SRD framework.
| Not Required Anymore | Reason Given |
|---|---|
| Monthly reapplication | Once verified, payment is continuous |
| Strict bank balance limit | Previous R499 rule to be removed |
| SASSA means-testing forms | Digital verification will replace forms |
| Delays due to ID mismatch | Biometric linking to fix identity issues |
| Manual Post Office collection | Phased out in favor of bank transfers |
Key Benefits for South African Citizens
The leaked proposal outlines several benefits of this new R750 model over the previous SRD grant.
- Double the amount of the previous R350, adjusted for inflation.
- Wider coverage including all unemployed adults, not just applicants.
- Permanent monthly income, instead of temporary relief.
- Faster payments with upgraded tech verification systems.
- No need to reapply each month once verified.
- Integrated database across SASSA, SARS, Home Affairs, UIF.
Why the R750 Income Is Being Introduced Now
With youth unemployment above 60%, and economic hardship deepening, the government is reportedly under pressure to act fast.
- Economic inequality widening after pandemic effects.
- Public protests and grant dependency increasing.
- International pressure to adopt Universal Basic Income models.
- 2026 elections on the horizon – urgent need for voter satisfaction.
- Stronger digital infrastructure now available for faster rollout.
Concerns Raised by Experts and Civil Society Groups
While the plan looks ambitious, analysts have pointed out several potential pitfalls and challenges if not carefully executed.
- Funding shortfalls may cause delays or partial rollouts.
- Fraud risks remain high without in-person KYC.
- No clarity yet on those with part-time jobs or informal earnings.
- Exclusion of current grant holders like elderly, disabled not fully explained.
- Limited communication from SASSA or Treasury so far.
What If the Plan Fails or Gets Delayed?
In case the policy fails to launch by August 1, the current R350 grant may be extended temporarily.
| Risk Factor | Possible Impact |
|---|---|
| Treasury fails to allocate funds | Grant delay or reduced payments |
| Database errors | Wrongful rejections or payment gaps |
| Technology not ready | Migration delays for existing recipients |
| Lack of awareness | Missed registrations or disputes |
| Political backlash | Protests and legal action from unions |
Official Statements, Status Checks, and Next Steps
As of June 24, 2025, no official confirmation has been released by SASSA or the Department of Social Development, but insiders expect a formal announcement before mid-July.
How to Prepare if You Are a Current SRD Recipient
If you’re already receiving the R350 grant, here’s what to do:
- Keep your bank details updated with SASSA to avoid rejection.
- Don’t reapply unless instructed officially by SASSA.
- Track media updates or check SASSA’s official site by July 15.
- Check your ID verification status via SASSA WhatsApp or portal.
What to Expect Between July 1 and August 1
Many current recipients are confused about what will happen during the transition period.
- July R350 payments will continue as scheduled.
- From mid-July, recipients may start receiving SMS about the new rollout.
- August 1 is the tentative start date for the R750 deposit.
- By September, all recipients from Phase 1 and 2 should be enrolled.
Final Verification Tips Before August Rollout
Make sure you are ready by checking these:
- Bank account is active and registered under your name.
- ID document is valid and not flagged.
- Your phone number on file is active for OTPs.
- You’ve received prior SASSA grant without rejection.
How This Affects Other Grants Like Child Support or Disability
The R750 UBI will not replace existing grants like child support, old age pension, or disability grants. Those recipients will continue with their current amounts unless otherwise notified. However, one cannot receive both UBI and other grants simultaneously if within the 18–59 age group.
How Much Will This Cost the Government?
Estimated calculations from the leaked draft show:
| Expense Item | Monthly Cost Estimate | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 15 million recipients × R750 | R11.25 billion | R135 billion |
| Tech upgrade + fraud prevention | R500 million | R6 billion |
| Awareness + staffing | R200 million | R2.4 billion |
| Total | R11.95 billion/month | R143.4 billion/year |
The leaked plan, if implemented as outlined, would mark the most significant overhaul of South Africa’s social grant structure in recent history. However, with many unknowns still in play, recipients are advised to stay alert, verify their information, and wait for official communication from SASSA before taking any action.
FAQs of Universal R750 Monthly Income
1. Will everyone get R750 from August 1?
Only those meeting the eligibility and verification criteria will be paid initially. Rollout will expand by phase.
2. Do I need to reapply if I get the R350 grant now?
No. If your details are up to date, you will be auto-migrated.
3. Can I get the R750 grant if I already receive a child grant?
No. You can only receive one type of grant in the 18–59 age range.
4. How will I know if I’m approved?
You’ll receive SMS or email from SASSA, or you can check the portal from mid-July.
5. What if my payment doesn’t arrive on August 1?
Delays may happen. Wait 3 working days, then contact SASSA via helpline or walk-in center.
6. Is this grant permanent or just for election time?
The draft describes it as permanent, but implementation depends on funding and policy confirmation.