New SASSA Rules – The South African government has announced a major transition in the country’s social welfare system by confirming that the Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) will officially replace the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant from June 30, 2025. This announcement has generated both hope and questions among millions of citizens who have been relying on the SRD Grant for financial support during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The UBIG is seen as a permanent solution aimed at addressing poverty and inequality, and is structured to support low-income individuals with regular monthly financial aid. This new grant system comes with revised eligibility criteria, updated application procedures, and a significantly higher payment amount. All current and potential beneficiaries are urged to understand the latest guidelines and requirements to avoid disqualification or payment delays.
What Is UBIG and Why Is It Replacing SRD?
The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) is a social protection measure introduced to create a more sustainable and comprehensive safety net for South Africans who are unemployed or earning below a minimum income threshold. Unlike the SRD Grant, which was introduced as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, the UBIG is designed to be a permanent income support system. The SRD Grant served its purpose during the peak of the health crisis but was always meant to be a temporary intervention. With economic conditions continuing to affect millions, the government has decided to move towards a more stable system through UBIG.
Key reasons for transitioning to UBIG include:
- SRD was initially a temporary COVID-19 relief mechanism, not built for long-term support.
- The UBIG will offer higher monthly payments, helping to meet basic living needs.
- The new system targets a broader group of vulnerable individuals, including informal workers and unemployed adults.
- The Department of Social Development (DSD) and SASSA have streamlined processes to improve delivery and reduce fraud.
By launching UBIG, the government hopes to reduce long-term poverty and provide predictable support to those who need it most.
New SASSA Eligibility Criteria for UBIG in 2025
To qualify for the UBIG payment under the new SASSA guidelines, applicants must meet a revised set of criteria designed to ensure that the assistance reaches the most vulnerable. The eligibility rules have been carefully structured to avoid duplication of support, encourage financial transparency, and improve the system’s efficiency.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Must be a South African citizen, refugee, or permanent resident.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 59 years old.
- Must be currently unemployed or earning less than R624 per month.
- Should not be receiving any other government grant (such as NSFAS, UIF, or child support grants).
- Must successfully pass a means test, including a bank account verification process.
- Applicants must provide a valid South African ID number and a working cellphone number.
Who will not qualify:
- Individuals currently employed with a taxable income.
- People receiving other full-time government support or grants.
- Beneficiaries already enrolled in other state-sponsored programs or stipends.
It is crucial for all applicants to provide accurate information, as applications will be verified against several government databases, and any discrepancies may result in disqualification or investigation.
UBIG Payment Amount, Schedule, and Disbursement Methods
The UBIG will offer beneficiaries a monthly payment of R1,200, subject to adjustments depending on government budget reviews. This is more than triple the previous SRD amount of R350 and is expected to significantly improve financial stability for many South Africans. Payments will be made on a monthly basis through various channels to ensure easy access and convenience.
Below is the official payment schedule for UBIG for the remainder of 2025:
| Month | Payment Start Date | Expected Disbursement Range | Last Date to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | June 30, 2025 | June 30 – July 5 | July 31 |
| July 2025 | July 29, 2025 | July 29 – Aug 3 | Aug 31 |
| August 2025 | Aug 28, 2025 | Aug 28 – Sept 3 | Sept 30 |
| September 2025 | Sept 30, 2025 | Sept 30 – Oct 5 | Oct 31 |
| October 2025 | Oct 30, 2025 | Oct 30 – Nov 5 | Nov 30 |
| November 2025 | Nov 28, 2025 | Nov 28 – Dec 3 | Dec 31 |
| December 2025 | Dec 30, 2025 | Dec 30 – Jan 4 | Jan 31, 2026 |
Disbursement options available:
- Direct bank transfers to the beneficiary’s bank account.
- Retail collection through Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, and USave stores.
- Cash Send services for beneficiaries without bank accounts.
Applicants must ensure their bank details are up to date and verified. Any mismatch or inactive accounts may lead to delays or failed payments.
How to Apply for UBIG in 2025
SASSA has made it simple and secure for South Africans to apply for UBIG through a digital-only process, aimed at improving verification speed and accuracy. The platform has been improved from the earlier SRD system, with added biometric and data-matching tools to prevent fraud and duplication.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the official SASSA website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on the “Apply for UBIG” option
- Enter your South African ID number, mobile number, and personal details
- Upload proof of income or bank statements (if required)
- Complete biometric or facial recognition verification if prompted
- Submit and wait for confirmation via SMS
Tips for a successful application:
- Double-check that your mobile number is active and registered in your name
- Use the same bank account details you used previously (if already verified)
- Respond promptly to any follow-up SMS from SASSA to avoid delays
Applicants will be notified of the outcome within 7 to 14 working days.
UBIG vs SRD – Key Differences That Matter
Many people are confused about what changes with UBIG. While some elements may seem similar, the UBIG is a much broader and better-funded program compared to the SRD grant.
| Feature | SRD Grant | UBIG Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R1,200 |
| Eligibility Age | 18+ | 18 – 59 |
| Duration | Temporary (COVID-19 relief) | Permanent |
| Application Method | Online | Online with verification |
| Other Grant Holders | Could apply | Cannot apply |
| Bank Verification | Light | Strict real-time checks |
| Income Threshold | R350 | R624 |
| Documentation | Minimal | Detailed with biometric checks |
The increase in the grant amount, improved verification processes, and limited eligibility to truly needy individuals ensures that the UBIG system is fair, efficient, and impactful.
What Existing Beneficiaries Must Do
If you are currently receiving SRD payments, it is essential to understand that these will officially stop after June 30, 2025. You are required to reapply under the UBIG program, even if your circumstances have not changed.
Steps for current SRD beneficiaries:
- Login to your existing SRD account at https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on the “Migrate to UBIG” option
- Reconfirm all personal details and upload necessary documents
- Accept the new terms and conditions of UBIG
- Monitor your mobile for verification status and payment alerts
If you do not reapply or update your details by the set deadline, your UBIG payments may be delayed or denied. Do not assume automatic migration.
The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) offers a much-needed lifeline to millions of South Africans who continue to struggle with unemployment and financial insecurity. By providing higher monthly support and implementing tighter eligibility checks, the UBIG is designed to be both compassionate and sustainable. Beneficiaries are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible, update their details, and stay informed through official SASSA platforms to avoid missing any payments.
SASSA and UBIG Contact Information
For any questions or help regarding UBIG, use the official contact channels:
Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
WhatsApp Support Line: 082 046 8553
Twitter/X: @OfficialSASSA
Facebook: facebook.com/SASSANewsZA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the UBIG officially start?
A1: The UBIG will officially begin on June 30, 2025, replacing the SRD grant entirely.
Q2: Will SRD recipients automatically be added to UBIG?
A2: No. All beneficiaries must reapply and meet the new criteria.
Q3: Can someone receive UBIG and child support grant at the same time?
A3: No. You can only receive one grant at a time to avoid duplication.
Q4: What happens if I don’t have a bank account?
A4: You can still receive payments via Cash Send or collect from partnered retailers.
Q5: How long does it take for my UBIG application to be approved?
A5: It usually takes 7–14 working days, depending on verification.