Free Data Vouchers – South African mobile users from low-income households have a golden opportunity to access free 1GB data vouchers—but only until August 15. In a bid to bridge the digital divide and ease the financial burden on underprivileged citizens, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), in partnership with selected telecom providers, has rolled out a time-sensitive free data initiative. This program allows qualifying individuals to claim 1GB of mobile data at no cost via an online portal or designated mobile apps. As part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure inclusive internet access, this offer is especially significant for students, job seekers, and pensioners who rely on mobile data for communication, education, and services. The data vouchers are non-transferable, valid for 7 days from the date of activation, and limited to one per eligible user. If you’re a beneficiary of SASSA grants, NSFAS funding, or are registered under a low-income mobile plan, you may already be pre-qualified. All you need is your mobile number, ID number, and access to the online application form or your service provider’s app. But be warned—delays are expected as demand spikes closer to the deadline. Below is a complete guide on eligibility, how to claim the voucher, supported mobile networks, and tips to ensure you don’t miss out on this critical support.
Who Can Get the Free Data Vouchers?
The voucher program is aimed at individuals already receiving financial support or falling under recognized low-income categories.
- SASSA grant recipients (Child Support, SRD, Old Age, Disability, etc.)
- NSFAS-funded students at TVETs or universities
- Beneficiaries of the Social Relief of Distress program
- Registered indigent households under municipal services
- Pensioners earning below the tax threshold
- People with disabilities receiving state support
- Job seekers registered on SAYouth.mobi
- Users on prepaid SIM cards with income below R3,500/month
Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Your Free Data Vouchers Online
Follow these steps to successfully claim your free 1GB data bundle before August 15.
- Visit the official website: https://data.dcdt.gov.za
- Enter your valid mobile number
- Input your South African ID number or passport if non-citizen
- Verify your mobile number via OTP
- Select your mobile service provider
- Accept the terms and conditions
- Click “Submit” and wait for confirmation SMS
Once approved, the data will be automatically loaded to your mobile account within 24–48 hours.
Telecom Providers Participating in the Free Data Vouchers
Only certain telecom networks are supporting the government’s free data initiative.
- Vodacom (Prepaid & Certain Postpaid Plans)
- MTN (Prepaid & Ayoba Bundles)
- Telkom Mobile (FreeMe and Prepaid SIMs)
- Cell C (Only via Cell C App or USSD)
- Rain (Via rain.co.za only, not all plans)
- Lycamobile (Through web login with OTP)
- Melon Mobile (Digital claim on app)
- Standard Bank Mobile (Voucher via mobile banking)
Data Validity, Restrictions, and Reuse Rules
Although this data voucher is free, it comes with strict rules to prevent abuse or overuse.
- Data is valid for 7 days from date of activation
- Cannot be shared or transferred
- Can only be claimed once per mobile number
- Will not roll over unused data
- Only usable on South African networks
- Not redeemable for cash or airtime
- Cannot be stacked with other promotional data
How to Check if You’re Already Pre-Approved
Many low-income users are auto-enrolled based on national databases. Here’s how to check:
- Dial
*134*1234#for Vodacom users - MTN users can SMS “Check” to 43030
- Telkom users can log into their Telkom app and navigate to ‘Free Data’
- Cell C users dial
*147#and select “Voucher” - NSFAS students can visit their institution portal
Departmental Contacts for Issues or Clarifications
If you face problems claiming your voucher or are unsure about eligibility, contact these official lines.
Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT):
- Email: connect@dcdt.gov.za
- Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 428 428
- Website: www.dcdt.gov.za
SASSA General Helpline:
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- Call: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za
NSFAS Contact Centre:
- Call: 0800 06 73 27
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Portal: www.nsfas.org.za
What to Do If You Didn’t Get the SMS Confirmation
If your data isn’t credited within 48 hours of submission, follow these tips:
- Recheck if you entered the correct mobile number and ID
- Confirm your SIM is registered in your name (RICA compliance)
- Contact your mobile provider’s support team
- Try to reapply only after 48 hours—repeated failed attempts may block future access
- Avoid using someone else’s number or ID—data is strictly non-transferable
Summary of Free 1GB Data Voucher Details
Below is a quick comparison of how different networks offer this voucher and how to apply.
| Network | Eligibility Requirement | Application Method | Claim Deadline | Delivery Time | Validity | Reapply Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vodacom | SASSA/Low-Income Users | 1341234# | Aug 15 | 24–48 hrs | 7 days | No |
| MTN | Prepaid users under R3,500 | SMS “Check” to 43030 | Aug 15 | 24 hrs | 7 days | No |
| Telkom Mobile | Indigent accounts/SASSA | Telkom App | Aug 15 | 48 hrs | 7 days | No |
| Cell C | Prepaid & App Users | *147# Menu | Aug 15 | 24–48 hrs | 7 days | No |
| Rain | Online application only | rain.co.za | Aug 15 | 1–2 days | 7 days | No |
| Lycamobile | OTP login only | lycamobile.co.za | Aug 15 | 24 hrs | 7 days | No |
| Melon Mobile | Digital application via app | Melon App | Aug 15 | 24 hrs | 7 days | No |
Who Qualifies for Free Government Data Support?
| Beneficiary Group | Eligible for 1GB Voucher | Application Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SASSA Grant Recipients | Yes | Yes | Must use registered mobile number |
| NSFAS Students | Yes | Sometimes | Some students pre-approved |
| Indigent Municipal Users | Yes | Yes | Must be registered with municipality |
| Job Seekers (SAYouth.mobi) | Yes | Yes | Must have active SAYouth profile |
| Pensioners Under Tax Bracket | Yes | Yes | Proof of income may be required |
| Disabled Citizens (on grants) | Yes | Yes | Verified through SASSA or health dept records |
| Foreign Nationals | No | N/A | Must have valid SA ID or passport + RICA SIM |
FAQs of Free Data Vouchers
Q1. Can I claim the 1GB data voucher more than once?
No, only one voucher is allowed per registered mobile number.
Q2. Is this free data available to contract users too?
Only specific low-cost contract users are eligible—mostly it’s for prepaid numbers.
Q3. What happens if I miss the August 15 deadline?
You won’t be able to apply after that. The system will close all entries at midnight.
Q4. Can I use this voucher for international browsing?
No, the data is for local South African traffic only.
Q5. What if I use dual SIM—can I apply for both numbers?
No. Only one SIM linked to your ID is eligible.