Crisis Relief Grant – In a much-needed intervention to support struggling households, the South African government has announced a brand-new Crisis Relief Grant, providing R500 per week for a total of 3 months. This temporary grant has been introduced as part of a short-term economic support measure aimed at alleviating financial pressure caused by ongoing inflation, job losses, and escalating food and fuel prices. With applications open until July 18, 2025, this emergency grant targets unemployed individuals, informal workers, and low-income earners who are not currently receiving any other form of social assistance, including the SASSA SRD R350 Grant. The grant is expected to benefit over 1.2 million applicants if demand projections are met. This bold move comes after numerous civil society groups, economists, and activists raised concerns over rising poverty levels and food insecurity in townships and rural areas. The Department of Social Development has partnered with Postbank and other provincial offices to ensure seamless disbursement of funds on a weekly basis. Below, we break down the full eligibility, application process, documentation required, and all critical deadlines that applicants must meet to avoid missing out.
Eligibility Criteria for the Crisis Relief Grant
This section highlights who qualifies for the new R500 weekly grant. Make sure you meet all these points before applying.
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Must be between the ages of 18 and 59 years
- Not currently receiving any other SASSA grant or UIF payment
- Household income below R3,500 per month
- Must have an active cellphone number and ID number
- Should not be employed formally or informally
- Applicants must have access to a valid bank account (Postbank or any major SA bank)
Crisis Relief Grant Payment Breakdown: How Much You Will Receive
Here’s a complete breakdown of the payment structure for this special crisis grant, totaling R6,000 over 3 months.
| Payment Cycle | Amount Paid | Dates of Payment | Payment Method | Total for Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 (July 22–26) | R500 | Within 5 working days | Bank/Postbank transfer | R2,000 |
| Week 2 (July 29–Aug 2) | R500 | Following Monday-Friday | EFT | |
| Week 3 (Aug 5–9) | R500 | Weekly disbursement | Bank/Postbank | |
| Week 4 (Aug 12–16) | R500 | Rolling payment schedule | Bank/Postbank | |
| Week 5 (Aug 19–23) | R500 | Continuous distribution | Bank/Postbank | R2,000 |
| Week 6 (Aug 26–30) | R500 | End of each week | Bank/Postbank | |
| Week 7 (Sept 2–6) | R500 | Scheduled weekly | Bank/Postbank | |
| Week 8 (Sept 9–13) | R500 | Final payout period | Bank/Postbank | R2,000 |
How to Apply for the R500 Weekly Crisis Relief Grant
The application process is fully digital and easy to complete within 10–15 minutes.
- Visit the official grant portal: www.dsd.gov.za/crisisgrant
- Enter your ID number, mobile number, and email address
- Upload a clear copy of your SA ID document or smart card
- Provide proof of unemployment or low income (bank statement or affidavit)
- Choose your payment method (Bank, Postbank, or CashSend)
- Submit the application and note your reference number
- You will receive a confirmation SMS within 24–48 hours
Required Documents and Verification Process for Crisis Relief Grant
This section ensures you submit only the correct paperwork to avoid rejection or delays.
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Bank statement for the past 3 months
- Proof of residence (municipal bill or affidavit)
- Cellphone number linked to your name
- Signed affidavit declaring unemployment
- Optional: Letter from community leader or ward councillor
Grant Disbursement Channels and Banking Options
You can choose from several banking channels to receive your grant, based on your convenience.
Postbank Direct Transfer
- For applicants without a personal bank account
- Payment will be sent to Postbank account opened automatically
- Can be withdrawn at Post Office or Postbank ATMs
CashSend Option
- Only for those who selected mobile withdrawal
- Will receive a secure voucher code via SMS
- Withdraw funds from selected retail stores or ATMs
Bank Transfer Option
- Most preferred and fastest method
- Funds are transferred directly to your registered bank account
- Payment notifications sent via SMS
Application Deadline and Grant Duration Explained
With limited time and high demand, meeting the deadline is critical for approval.
July 18, 2025 – Final Date to Apply
- All applications must be submitted before 11:59 PM on this date
- Late applications will not be accepted or reviewed
3-Month Duration
- Grant begins in the week of July 22 and runs till mid-September
- No renewals or extensions after the final payment cycle
- Future grants will depend on national budget availability
What to Do If You Don’t Get a Response
If you haven’t heard back after applying, don’t panic. Here’s what to check and do:
- Confirm your application reference number is correct
- Wait at least 3–5 working days after submission
- Check your SMS inbox for confirmation or rejection message
- Contact the helpline at 0800 601 011 (Monday–Friday, 8am to 4pm)
- Visit nearest SASSA office with your ID and application reference
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these errors to ensure faster approval and avoid delays.
- Incorrect ID or document uploads
- Using someone else’s phone number or bank account
- Submitting duplicate applications
- Missing key fields during form filling
- Not checking SMS updates for approval status
Important Dates and Notification Timeline
Here’s a full summary table of key dates to remember.
| Event | Date | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Application Open Date | June 20, 2025 | Online portal live from 9:00 AM |
| Last Date to Apply | July 18, 2025 | No late applications allowed |
| First Payment Week | July 22–26, 2025 | Weekly payment begins |
| Final Payment Week | Sept 9–13, 2025 | Program ends after 12 weeks |
| Appeals or Complaints Deadline | Sept 30, 2025 | File issues with DSD or regional office |
This new Crisis Relief Grant is a significant lifeline for millions struggling in the current economic climate. South Africans are strongly advised to apply before the July 18 deadline to secure this short-term financial support and avoid disqualification. All eligible citizens should act fast, double-check documents, and ensure their banking details are correct to receive smooth and timely payouts.
FAQs on Crisis Relief Grant
Q1. Can I apply if I already get SRD R350 Grant?
No. The Crisis Relief Grant is only for those who are not receiving any other SASSA support.
Q2. What happens if I miss the deadline?
You will not be eligible. No late entries will be processed.
Q3. Can I apply without a bank account?
Yes. You can choose Postbank or CashSend options.
Q4. Is the R500 grant taxable?
No. This grant is non-taxable and will not affect your credit score.
Q5. How long will payments continue?
For 12 weeks (3 months) from the first week of approval.