Universal Basic Income – In a major shift in South Africa’s social support system, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially announced that the popular SRD R350 grant will be discontinued from August 2025. Replacing it is a brand-new Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG), promising broader coverage, improved benefits, and revised eligibility rules. This change has sparked concern and curiosity among millions who relied on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant since the pandemic. The new Universal Basic Income Grant is expected to provide monthly financial support of up to R1,200 to eligible South Africans, nearly three times more than the R350 grant. However, the government has emphasized that this is not an automatic continuation – applicants must reapply under the new system, which introduces stricter yet inclusive criteria focused on income thresholds, age groups, and digital application compliance. This massive policy shift comes after months of deliberation and economic pressure to establish a long-term poverty alleviation framework beyond temporary relief grants. The Department of Social Development (DSD), in collaboration with SASSA and Treasury, aims to create a sustainable monthly income system targeting unemployed adults, youth, and the chronically poor. Let’s dive into the full details of this new grant system, how it will affect SRD beneficiaries, and how to apply under the updated rules.
What is Changing From SRD to Universal Basic Income?
The discontinuation of the SRD grant marks a new chapter in South Africa’s approach to tackling unemployment and poverty. Here are the key differences between the outgoing and incoming systems:
- SRD Grant ends on 31 August 2025
- UBIG begins from 1 September 2025
- Monthly payment increases from R350 to up to R1,200
- Eligibility based on broader poverty indicators
- Application process fully digital and verified through bank records
- National rollout under 3-phase approach: Youth, General Adults, Informal Workers
Major Differences: SRD Grant vs. UBIG – Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | SRD R350 Grant | Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R1,000 – R1,200 |
| Validity Period | Temporary (COVID Relief) | Permanent Monthly Support |
| Start/End Date | May 2020 – August 2025 | Begins 1 September 2025 |
| Application Type | Online & WhatsApp | Online Only (No WhatsApp) |
| Age Group Covered | 18 – 59 | 18 – 60+ |
| Income Limit | Below R624/month | Below R1,500/month (revised) |
| Payment Method | Bank Account or Post Office | Bank Account Only |
| Biometric Verification | Not Required | Mandatory for all new applicants |
Who Qualifies for the New Universal Basic Income Grant?
The new criteria aim to ensure the neediest individuals are covered while excluding double-dippers and employed individuals.
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with valid documentation
- Aged between 18 and 60 years old
- Must not be receiving other state income (NSFAS, UIF, Social Grants)
- Monthly income below R1,500 (verified through bank statements)
- Must be unemployed or informally employed without UIF registration
- Biometric face verification is compulsory
- Updated address, mobile number, and banking details required
Priority Categories Under Phase 1 Rollout
| Category | Rollout Start Date | Monthly Amount | Application Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployed Youth (18–34) | 1 Sept 2025 | R1,200 | 1 – 30 Sept 2025 |
| Long-Term Unemployed | 1 Oct 2025 | R1,100 | 1 – 31 Oct 2025 |
| Informal Workers | 1 Nov 2025 | R1,000 | 1 – 30 Nov 2025 |
| Rural Poor | 1 Dec 2025 | R1,100 | 1 – 15 Dec 2025 |
How to Apply for Universal Basic Income From 1 September 2025
SASSA has updated its application portal to streamline and digitize the process. Here’s a quick guide:
- Visit the official SASSA portal: www.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Apply for UBIG Grant”
- Fill in ID, contact number, address, and upload bank proof
- Complete biometric face verification using mobile or laptop camera
- Submit and wait for SMS confirmation within 7 working days
Required Documents for UBIG Application
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| SA ID or Refugee Permit | Mandatory |
| Proof of Income (last 3 months) | Mandatory |
| Mobile Number (Linked to ID) | Mandatory |
| Active Bank Account (not PostBank) | Mandatory |
| Selfie for biometric verification | Mandatory |
SASSA Payment Dates and Disbursement Schedule
Payment timelines have been revised to ensure smoother and more predictable disbursements.
- Youth Applications (Sept 2025): Paid on the 5th of every month
- General Adult Applications (Oct 2025): Paid on the 10th of every month
- Rural Disbursements (Nov–Dec): Paid on the 12th of every month
- Payments only through bank transfers – No cash paypoints or Post Office
Monthly Payment Schedule Table (Sept – Dec 2025)
| Month | Youth Payment | Adult Payment | Informal Sector Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| September | 5 Sept | – | – |
| October | 5 Oct | 10 Oct | – |
| November | 5 Nov | 10 Nov | 12 Nov |
| December | 5 Dec | 10 Dec | 12 Dec |
Contact Details for Help and Queries
If you need assistance with UBIG applications or payment issues, contact the official departments below:
| Department | Contact Number | Email Address | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| SASSA National Helpline | 0800 60 10 11 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm |
| DSD Grants Unit | 012 312 7727 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm |
| Biometric Verification Support | 012 123 4567 | [email protected] | Mon–Sat, 8am–6pm |
| Banking Info Verification | 012 789 6543 | [email protected] | Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm |
What Should You Do Now?
- If you were receiving the SRD R350 grant, it will automatically stop in August 2025
- You must reapply under the new UBIG criteria
- Keep your ID, bank proof, and contact number ready
- Use only the official portal to avoid scams
- Help is available via SASSA call center and local offices
Public response to the new Universal Basic Income Grant has been mixed. While many welcome the higher payouts and permanent nature of the grant, some worry about the complexity of digital applications and strict biometric checks. SASSA, however, claims these are vital to prevent fraud and ensure real needy citizens receive the funds. Activists have praised the shift as a “bold step toward economic justice,” but emphasize the need for clear communication and rural accessibility. The Treasury has allocated an initial R100 billion budget for the UBIG’s first year, with future revisions based on uptake and economic performance. The government urges all SRD beneficiaries and eligible citizens to act promptly and apply in September to avoid missing out on the new benefit.
FAQs of Universal Basic Income
1. Will my SRD R350 grant automatically convert to UBIG?
No. You must reapply under the new Universal Basic Income Grant system starting September 2025.
2. What is the maximum income allowed for UBIG eligibility?
You must earn less than R1,500 per month to qualify, verified through your bank account.
3. Can I apply for UBIG if I receive a child grant or NSFAS?
No. You cannot receive UBIG if you’re already receiving other government income support.
4. When will I receive my first UBIG payment?
If approved in September, your first payment will be made by 5 October 2025.
5. Is biometric verification mandatory?
Yes, all applicants must complete face verification through the online system for fraud prevention.