R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher – Starting August 2025, millions of SASSA beneficiaries will receive a massive financial relief boost in the form of a R500 monthly electricity voucher, aimed at easing the burden of rising utility costs. This new benefit, introduced by the Department of Social Development in collaboration with Eskom and local municipalities, is part of a broader effort to support low-income households as electricity prices continue to climb. The R500 voucher will be automatically loaded onto eligible SASSA accounts every month, giving families a direct way to manage electricity expenses without out-of-pocket payments. This move comes in response to ongoing community feedback and energy poverty affecting large sections of the population, especially in rural and informal settlements. The program will roll out province by province, with initial implementation starting in high-need areas such as Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal. Eligibility is primarily linked to grant types and household income thresholds, ensuring that the most vulnerable groups, including pensioners, disabled individuals, and child grant recipients, benefit first. This article provides a full breakdown of the new voucher scheme, including provincial eligibility, how to apply if not automatically included, when the voucher will reflect, and which municipalities are participating.
Who Qualifies for the R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher?
SASSA and Eskom have released guidelines indicating who qualifies under this program.
- All old-age pension grant recipients
- Disability grant beneficiaries
- Child support grant beneficiaries
- Unemployed individuals receiving SRD (R350) grant
- Households earning below the national poverty line
- Beneficiaries living in informal settlements and rural areas
- Individuals without access to alternative energy sources
Province-Wise Implementation Timeline for R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher
Different provinces will implement the voucher distribution in phases. Here’s a timeline based on current rollout plans.
| Province | Start Date | Phase | Estimated Beneficiaries | Municipal Support | Load Method | Contact Centre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Cape | August 2025 | Phase 1 | 1.2 million | Yes | Auto via SASSA | 0800-60-10-11 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | August 2025 | Phase 1 | 1.5 million | Yes | Auto via SASSA | 0800-60-10-11 |
| Limpopo | August 2025 | Phase 1 | 900,000 | Yes | Auto via SASSA | 0800-60-10-11 |
| Northern Cape | September 2025 | Phase 2 | 500,000 | Limited | Auto via SASSA | 0800-60-10-11 |
| Western Cape | October 2025 | Phase 3 | 800,000 | Yes | Auto or Redeem | 0800-60-10-11 |
| Gauteng | October 2025 | Phase 3 | 2 million | Yes | Voucher + Auto | 0800-60-10-11 |
| Free State | November 2025 | Phase 4 | 600,000 | Limited | Auto via SASSA | 0800-60-10-11 |
| North West | November 2025 | Phase 4 | 750,000 | Yes | Voucher Only | 0800-60-10-11 |
How Will the R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher Be Delivered?
The Department has announced multiple delivery channels for flexibility and ease of access.
Direct Credit via SASSA Card
Those receiving other SASSA grants will automatically get the R500 voucher credited monthly.
- Voucher auto-loads on the same date as regular grant
- Available for prepaid electricity through participating vendors
- Use SASSA card or account-linked wallet to redeem
R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher – Mobile Voucher via SMS
A second method is designed for rural residents or those without SASSA-linked cards.
- Voucher code sent via SMS to registered phone number
- Can be redeemed at Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer, Spar, or selected outlets
- Valid for prepaid meters only
What If I Don’t Receive My R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher?
In some cases, eligible individuals may not automatically get the benefit. Here’s what you should do.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- Ensure your mobile number and SASSA account are up to date
- Visit your nearest SASSA office to verify grant status
- Call the national SASSA helpline (0800-60-10-11)
- Request manual inclusion if your area is listed as eligible
- Keep electricity meter or account details ready for verification
List of Participating Municipalities
This initiative is being launched in partnership with specific municipalities that have prepaid metering systems.
Key Cities and Towns Covered
| Municipality Name | Province | Voucher Enabled | Support Office |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nelson Mandela Bay | Eastern Cape | Yes | Port Elizabeth |
| eThekwini | KwaZulu-Natal | Yes | Durban |
| Polokwane | Limpopo | Yes | Limpopo Municipal HQ |
| Kimberley | Northern Cape | Yes | Sol Plaatje Office |
| Cape Town Metro | Western Cape | Yes | Cape Town Civic |
| Johannesburg Metro | Gauteng | Yes | Braamfontein Centre |
| Mangaung | Free State | Yes | Bloemfontein Central |
| Rustenburg | North West | Yes | Rustenburg CBD |
What You Should Do Next as a Beneficiary
To ensure you receive your voucher smoothly:
- Update your contact and grant details with SASSA
- Check your eligibility by province and municipality
- Note the voucher start date relevant to your area
- Report any issues immediately to the SASSA helpline
- Redeem the voucher only at recognized prepaid vendors
The introduction of the R500 electricity voucher reflects a growing commitment from the South African government to ease living costs for low-income households during tough economic times. It’s not just a utility subsidy – it’s a lifeline for millions.
FAQs of R500 Monthly Electricity Voucher
When will the voucher be credited?
The R500 electricity voucher will be credited on the same day as your main SASSA grant from August 2025 onward.
Do I need to apply?
Most beneficiaries will be auto-enrolled. However, if you don’t receive the voucher by August 15, 2025, you are advised to contact SASSA or visit a nearby office.
Can I use the voucher for anything else?
No. The voucher is exclusively for prepaid electricity. It cannot be redeemed for cash or other products.
Will the voucher affect my existing grant amount?
No. The R500 is an additional benefit and will not reduce your regular SASSA payment.
How long will this benefit last?
The government has committed to run this initiative until March 2026. An extension will depend on the availability of funds and policy direction.
What happens if I lose my phone or don’t get the SMS?
Visit your local SASSA office to re-register your mobile number and request a reissue of the voucher code.
Are there any scams I should be aware of?
Yes. SASSA has warned about fake messages and offers related to the voucher. Do not share your ID, card PIN, or voucher code with anyone.