New UBIG Program – In a landmark move that will reshape South Africa’s social welfare system, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially ended the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant in 2025. This marks the conclusion of a temporary grant initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide emergency support to millions of unemployed and vulnerable individuals. In its place, the government has launched a permanent solution: the Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG). This new program aims to provide consistent financial assistance to low-income and unemployed South Africans, helping them meet basic living expenses in a more sustainable and dignified manner. The UBIG is being rolled out in partnership with the Department of Social Development and is expected to eventually reach more than 10 million eligible recipients across the country. The transition is part of a broader effort by the state to reduce chronic poverty, close the inequality gap, and stimulate long-term economic participation by offering a baseline income.
What Is the UBIG Program?
The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) is a new monthly financial assistance initiative introduced in 2025 to provide regular income support to unemployed South Africans between the ages of 18 and 59. Unlike the SRD grant which was temporary and pandemic-specific, the UBIG has been designed as a permanent measure to protect economically vulnerable citizens. The UBIG program offers a fixed monthly payment of R1,000 to eligible individuals and aims to promote economic independence, reduce reliance on crisis-based handouts, and offer a consistent safety net. The program is backed by legislative reform and a newly restructured budget allocation focused on long-term poverty alleviation. Government sources confirm that this is one of the largest and most ambitious social welfare projects in post-apartheid South Africa.
- Monthly R1,000 grant for unemployed adults aged 18–59
- Replaces the SRD grant with a permanent structure
- Designed to promote economic independence
- Supported by government legislation and funding
- Nationwide coverage with digital application system
Who Qualifies for the UBIG in 2025?
To qualify for the UBIG in 2025, individuals must be unemployed South African citizens, permanent residents, or legal refugees aged between 18 and 59, with no other state-funded income (excluding Child Support Grant), and must earn less than R624 per month.
The eligibility criteria for the UBIG have been defined to target the most financially vulnerable groups while maintaining strict anti-fraud measures. To qualify for UBIG in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee with legal documentation.
- Be aged 18 to 59 years old at the time of application.
- Be unemployed and not receiving any other state-funded social grant (excluding the Child Support Grant).
- Have a monthly income below R624 (as per the current poverty threshold).
- Be registered with the Department of Home Affairs and possess a valid South African ID or refugee permit.
- Provide a valid mobile number and a functional bank account registered in the applicant’s name.
Applicants are advised to ensure that their details with both Home Affairs and SASSA are up to date to avoid processing delays or disqualification.
UBIG Payment Schedule and Payout Method
UBIG payments are issued monthly and follow a fixed cycle to ensure consistency. SASSA has committed to making these payments directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts or through designated payment collection points like Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, and selected post office branches. The use of electronic payments is being promoted to ensure speed and reduce cash-handling risks.
Below is the projected payment schedule for the first seven months of UBIG’s rollout:
UBIG 2025 Payment Calendar
| Month | Application Cut-off | Payment Start Date | Amount Paid (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5 Jan | 15 Jan | R1,000 |
| February | 5 Feb | 15 Feb | R1,000 |
| March | 5 Mar | 15 Mar | R1,000 |
| April | 5 Apr | 15 Apr | R1,000 |
| May | 5 May | 15 May | R1,000 |
| June | 5 Jun | 15 Jun | R1,000 |
| July | 5 Jul | 15 Jul | R1,000 |
In case of delays due to bank errors or public holidays, beneficiaries will be notified via SMS. All payments are subject to verification of applicant data.
How to Apply for UBIG – Step-by-Step Guide
To simplify the registration process and encourage broad participation, SASSA has created a user-friendly online portal for UBIG applications. Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official SASSA website or directly go to https://services.sassa.gov.za/.
- Navigate to the UBIG Application Portal and click “Apply Now.”
- Fill in your ID number, full name, and contact information.
- Provide your latest bank account details. These must be in your name.
- Upload supporting documents such as proof of unemployment, bank statements, or an affidavit if requested.
- Accept the terms and conditions and submit your application.
- Await confirmation via SMS or email. Approved applicants will start receiving payments within one month.
SASSA has also made provisions for in-person applications at regional offices for applicants who do not have access to smartphones or the internet.
Comparison Between SRD and UBIG Programs
The transition from SRD to UBIG reflects a policy shift from reactive to proactive income support. Here’s how the two programs compare:
SRD vs. UBIG Comparison Table
| Feature | SRD Grant | UBIG Program |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R1,000 |
| Eligibility Age | 18–59 | 18–59 |
| Duration | Temporary | Permanent |
| Income Threshold | R624/month | R624/month |
| Application Process | Online & In-person | Online & In-person |
| Bank Account Required | Optional | Mandatory |
| Digital Verification | Limited | Enhanced |
The UBIG program is a clear upgrade, offering more financial stability, improved systems, and a broader long-term vision.
Common Issues Faced by Applicants
Despite the improvements, some challenges may still arise:
- Rejection due to mismatched ID or bank account details.
- Delays in application processing due to high demand.
- Limited internet access in rural areas.
- Lack of clarity on supporting documentation.
To mitigate these issues, SASSA has ramped up support at its call centers and regional offices.
The termination of the SRD grant and the launch of the UBIG program represents a turning point in South Africa’s approach to social welfare. By committing to a permanent, dignified, and predictable income support mechanism, the government has taken a bold step toward addressing the country’s deep-rooted economic inequalities. The UBIG has the potential to transform lives, especially for unemployed youth and working-age adults struggling to make ends meet. Applicants are urged to stay informed, apply on time, and ensure all details provided are accurate to fully benefit from this landmark initiative.
Departmental Contact Details
If you encounter problems during your application process or have queries related to eligibility, payment delays, or documentation, reach out to the following:
SASSA National Contact Centre
Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za
Department of Social Development
Phone: 012 312 7500
Website: https://www.dsd.gov.za
It is strongly recommended to contact the above offices during working hours for prompt assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is UBIG available nationwide?
Yes, UBIG is available in all nine provinces of South Africa, subject to eligibility criteria.
Q2. Can I apply for UBIG if I previously received the SRD grant?
Yes, but your application will be reassessed under the new UBIG criteria.
Q3. How often do I need to reapply?
You must update your information annually or if there is a significant change in your income/employment status.
Q4. Will the R1,000 amount increase over time?
The government has indicated that adjustments may be made based on inflation and budget reviews.
Q5. What happens if my bank account is closed?
Update your bank details immediately through the online portal to avoid payment issues.