New SRD Payment Rules – In a shocking update for millions of South Africans, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released new payment rules for the August 2025 cycle of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant. These new guidelines directly affect eligibility, processing timelines, and biometric verification procedures, and failure to comply could result in applicants losing out on the R370 monthly relief. Starting August 2025, all SRD R370 beneficiaries are required to complete a new biometric verification step as part of SASSA’s fraud-prevention initiative. The Department of Social Development (DSD), in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and the State Security Agency, has implemented these changes to reduce duplicate payments, ghost beneficiaries, and fraudulent banking activities. Although these changes aim to improve security and streamline the process, they have added extra pressure on existing and new applicants who must now complete this verification before receiving any funds. Applicants who fail to complete this mandatory biometric process on time may experience indefinite delays or outright rejection of their SRD application. For those relying on this money to put food on the table, missing a single verification deadline could mean financial catastrophe. Below is everything you need to know about the new SRD payment verification system, important dates, eligibility criteria, step-by-step verification guide, payment schedule, and who to contact if your grant is blocked or delayed.
Who Is Affected by the New SRD Payment Rules?
The new rules impact all applicants under the SRD R370 program for August 2025, including both existing and newly registered individuals.
- All SRD grant recipients between ages 18–59
- Existing beneficiaries whose bank details or phone numbers have changed recently
- New applicants who applied after July 15, 2025
- People flagged for duplicate identity or unverified income records
- Applicants without updated biometric data in Home Affairs
Key New SRD Payment Rules Changes Effective From August 2025
Below are the most significant changes you must understand to avoid grant delays or rejection:
| Rule/Update | Description |
|---|---|
| Biometric Verification Deadline | All applicants must verify identity by August 14, 2025 |
| Mandatory Facial Recognition Check | Real-time camera verification required through SASSA app or website |
| Income Re-evaluation Threshold | Monthly income now capped at R670 for eligibility |
| Blocked Account Review Period | Suspended accounts will undergo a 7-day audit process |
| Phone Number Sync with ID | Mobile number must match Home Affairs record |
| Automatic Rejection Triggers | Dual application, bank mismatch, or identity fraud alerts |
| Support Document Update Window | August 1–10 for submitting new documents or banking details |
| New Verification Tool | Powered by Home Affairs’ Biometric Live Sync Tool (BLST) |
How to Complete the New Biometric Verification Step
To ensure you don’t miss your payment in August, follow this process before the deadline.
Step-by-Step Verification Process on SASSA App/Website
- Log in to the official SASSA SRD portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Biometric Verification” option
- Grant camera access on your smartphone or computer
- Follow the facial recognition prompts and ensure proper lighting
- Submit verification and wait for confirmation SMS or email
- If rejected, resubmit within 48 hours or visit nearest SASSA office
Required Documents for August Verification
| Document Type | Required For | Submission Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| South African ID | Mandatory for all applicants | August 10, 2025 |
| Proof of Income/Bank Statement | Those flagged for income re-check | August 8, 2025 |
| Proof of Residence | Applicants with changed addresses | August 10, 2025 |
| Proof of Unemployment | Required for new unemployed applicants | August 7, 2025 |
| Affidavit or Court Order | If identity conflict exists | August 12, 2025 |
Who Might Lose the Grant in August 2025?
Thousands are at risk of losing their R370 grant simply because of these avoidable mistakes:
- Not completing biometric verification by the deadline
- Using a phone number that is not RICA-registered or linked to the ID
- Applying using someone else’s bank account
- Failing to declare secondary income or receiving over the income threshold
- Uploading expired or blurry documents
When Will the R370 Grant Be Paid in August?
| Grant Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | August 5, 2025 |
| Disability Grant | August 6, 2025 |
| Children’s Grant | August 7, 2025 |
| SRD R370 Grant | August 15, 2025 |
Payments may take 1–3 business days to reflect in your account depending on your bank.
What To Do If You Miss the August Deadline
If your SRD R370 application is suspended or declined in August, you can still appeal:
Step-by-Step Appeals Process
- Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
- Log in using your ID number and phone number
- Select the month (August 2025) and reason for rejection
- Upload any supporting documentation (new ID photo, proof of income, etc.)
- Wait for appeal outcome within 15 working days
Departmental Contact Details for Assistance
If you’re still facing issues, contact the appropriate department using the details below:
| Department | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| SASSA National Call Centre | 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free) |
| SRD Grant Helpline | 012 312 7727 |
| Home Affairs (Biometric Unit) | 0800 60 11 90 or email: biometrics@dha.gov.za |
| DSD Support Desk | 012 312 7500 or email: support@dsd.gov.za |
| SASSA Western Cape Office | 021 469 0200 |
| WhatsApp Support | Message “SRD” to 082 046 8553 |
| Email Enquiries | grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za |
FAQs of New SRD Payment Rules
1. What happens if I miss the biometric verification deadline in August 2025?
You will not receive your R370 payment unless you appeal or complete late verification with proof.
2. Can I use someone else’s phone for verification?
No. The mobile number must be RICA-registered in your name and linked to your ID.
3. What is the income limit for SRD eligibility in August 2025?
Your monthly income must not exceed R670, or you will be disqualified.
4. How long does SASSA take to verify biometric submissions?
It usually takes 2–4 business days. In rare cases, it can take up to 7 working days.
5. Can I still change my bank details after submitting verification?
Yes, between August 1 and August 10, 2025, you can update your details through the portal.