New UBIG Grant – In a major social policy shift, the South African government has announced the replacement of the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) Grant with the more permanent and inclusive Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) starting from May 30, 2025. This new grant marks a bold step toward long-term poverty alleviation and income security for millions of vulnerable South Africans who have been depending on the SRD grant since the COVID-19 pandemic. With the official rollout of the UBIG Grant, eligible citizens will now benefit from monthly cash payments, with more streamlined application and verification processes. The government hopes this move will reduce inequality, stimulate local economies, and offer consistent financial relief to those who are unemployed or underemployed.
Why Is the SRD Grant Being Replaced?
The SRD R350 Grant, introduced during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis in 2020, was a temporary lifeline meant to assist those with no income source. Over time, as unemployment remained high, the grant was extended multiple times. However, the stop-gap nature of SRD created constant uncertainty for beneficiaries. Recognizing the need for a sustainable and long-term solution, the government decided to replace the SRD grant with a Universal Basic Income Grant starting May 2025. This move aligns with South Africa’s long-term vision for universal social protection and economic justice.
Key reasons for the transition:
- SRD was not permanent and required frequent renewals
- UBIG allows for more reliable and predictable income support
- UBIG expands coverage to more economically vulnerable groups
- Provides the foundation for a future comprehensive income support policy
Key Features of the New UBIG Grant
The UBIG Grant is designed to offer more stability, transparency, and inclusiveness than the SRD grant. Here are the main features:
- Monthly payment starting from R370 per person
- No need to reapply every few months
- Aims to become a permanent support system for unemployed individuals
- Uses automated verification systems to reduce fraud and errors
- Supports digital payments, including Postbank, EFT, and retail collection
- Can be adjusted annually based on inflation or budget changes
The grant is not just a continuation of SRD — it’s an evolution into a national support framework that may later be integrated with job training programs, health benefits, or even a national work guarantee.
Eligibility Criteria for UBIG
SASSA has released a detailed eligibility framework for the new UBIG Grant. While some SRD beneficiaries will be automatically migrated, others will need to revalidate or reapply.
To qualify for UBIG, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Be aged 18 to 59 years
- Be unemployed or earning below the government-set monthly income threshold
- Not be receiving other social assistance like old-age or disability pensions
- Not be receiving UIF or NSFAS
- Not be employed in any formal government job
Applicants must also consent to income verification through bank and government databases to maintain transparency and accuracy.
UBIG Payment Dates and Frequency
SASSA has confirmed that the first batch of UBIG payments will begin from May 30, 2025, and will follow a consistent monthly schedule thereafter. Payments will be staggered over several days to manage volume and ensure system stability.
UBIG Payment Schedule 2025
| Month | Payment Start Date | Estimated Completion | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | May 20, 2025 | May 27, 2025 | Confirmed |
| June 2025 | June 21, 2025 | June 28, 2025 | Tentative |
| July 2025 | July 20, 2025 | July 27, 2025 | Tentative |
| August 2025 | August 20, 2025 | August 27, 2025 | Tentative |
| September 2025 | September 20, 2025 | September 27, 2025 | Tentative |
| October 2025 | October 21, 2025 | October 28, 2025 | Tentative |
| November 2025 | November 20, 2025 | November 27, 2025 | Tentative |
| December 2025 | December 19, 2025 | December 24, 2025 | Tentative |
Application Process for UBIG
If you are currently receiving the SRD Grant and meet the new criteria, you may not need to reapply. However, you will be required to confirm your consent for income verification via SMS or online.
Steps for New Applicants:
- Go to the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Select the “UBIG Application” option
- Fill in your personal information including ID number and mobile number
- Upload necessary documents (if required)
- Choose your payment method: bank account, Postbank, or retail partner
- Submit the application and wait for SMS confirmation
Applicants are advised to apply only through official SASSA channels to avoid scams or identity theft.
Required Documents for UBIG Application
- South African Identity Document
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or affidavit)
- Proof of unemployment or no-income declaration
- Banking details with account holder name matching ID
Applicants who fail to submit correct or matching information may face delays in processing.
Who Will Not Qualify for UBIG?
Certain groups are excluded from the UBIG Grant to avoid duplication and misuse:
- Beneficiaries already receiving old age, disability, or child support grants
- Individuals registered for NSFAS, UIF, or formal sector wages
- Those earning above the monthly income limit (to be published)
- Non-citizens or undocumented residents
UBIG Grant vs SRD Grant Comparison
| Feature | SRD Grant | UBIG Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | Starts from R370 |
| Duration | Temporary Relief | Permanent Support |
| Age Eligibility | 18 – 59 Years | 18 – 59 Years |
| Renewal Requirement | Every 3-6 Months | None Required |
| Verification Method | Manual | Automated Digital System |
| Banking Integration | Limited | Wider Options & Digital Pay |
Where and How Will the Grant Be Paid?
SASSA will deposit the UBIG Grant directly into the recipient’s:
- Bank account
- Postbank account
- Retail store collection points (Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, Checkers)
You will receive a monthly SMS alert notifying you of the payment date and amount.
Government’s Broader Plan with UBIG
The UBIG Grant isn’t just about providing cash — it’s part of a wider national economic strategy to:
- Reduce extreme poverty
- Enable basic purchasing power for millions
- Stimulate rural and township economies
- Link cash transfers with skills development and job training
Eventually, the UBIG platform could be integrated with national job guarantee schemes, education grants, and health benefits, forming the foundation of a new South African welfare state.
Mistakes to Avoid During UBIG Application
- Entering incorrect ID or banking information
- Sharing your OTP or login credentials with anyone
- Ignoring SMS from SASSA requesting verification
- Applying through unauthorized agents or websites
Tips for a Smooth Payment Experience
- Keep your mobile number active
- Regularly check your UBIG application status
- Update your details promptly if you change bank or address
- Call SASSA if you don’t receive payment within 5 business days of the schedule
The launch of the Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) marks a transformative step in South Africa’s fight against poverty and inequality. By replacing the temporary SRD grant with a permanent, automated, and broader-reaching system, the government is moving towards a future of financial security for all vulnerable citizens.
SASSA Departmental Contact Details
For help with the UBIG Grant, reach out to:
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Email Support: [email protected]
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- WhatsApp Line: 082 046 8553
- Physical Address: SASSA HQ, Private Bag X55662, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007
FAQs – UBIG Grant May 2025
Q1: Will the R370 amount increase over time?
A: Yes, the government is planning annual reviews and adjustments based on inflation and budget allocations.
Q2: Can I receive UBIG and work part-time?
A: Yes, if your total monthly income remains below the government threshold.
Q3: Do I need to stand in line at a Post Office?
A: No, payments will be digitized and sent to your bank or selected store for faster access.
Q4: What if I don’t get the SMS confirmation?
A: Contact SASSA immediately via helpline or WhatsApp support.
Q5: Can I use someone else’s bank account?
A: No, the account must be in your name and match your ID to receive payment.