R6900 Grant – In a major development that could benefit millions of South Africans, the government has officially extended the R100 billion emergency relief package until 29 July 2025. This extension comes with a renewed opportunity for qualifying citizens to claim R6,900 per person—but only if applications are completed before the midnight deadline on 29 July. The grant, designed to alleviate financial strain amid rising living costs, fuel hikes, and unemployment, has already reached thousands, but many eligible individuals are still unaware. With rising food prices, electricity tariffs, and transportation costs, low-income households continue to face immense pressure. This relief package has been designed as a direct cash injection into households that fall under the income and vulnerability criteria set by the government. It is part of the broader Economic Recovery and Protection Initiative, aimed at buffering the most affected segments of the population. If you missed the earlier deadlines or struggled with documentation, this is your final window to benefit. The Department of Social Development (DSD) has simplified the application process, and those with a valid South African ID, proof of income (or lack thereof), and mobile banking access can now apply digitally within minutes. But urgency is key: after 29 July, no new applications will be accepted, and all unused funds will be reallocated. Below are all the important details, eligibility rules, payout timelines, and step-by-step application instructions to help you make the most of this once-off opportunity.
Who Is Eligible for the R6900 Grant?
This grant is specifically meant for vulnerable individuals who meet a strict set of eligibility conditions. Here’s a breakdown:
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- Aged between 18 and 60 years
- Monthly household income less than R5,600
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Not currently receiving other government grants (excluding child support grant)
- Must have a valid ID and active mobile number
- Must have access to a bank account or mobile wallet
Additional Eligibility Clarifications for R6900 Grant
Certain additional cases qualify under special consideration clauses. These include:
- People recently retrenched (within 6 months)
- Gig workers or informal traders with inconsistent income
- Applicants awaiting UIF payouts
- Students who are financially dependent on family income under the threshold
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African or Permanent Resident |
| Age Range | 18 to 60 Years |
| Maximum Monthly Income | R5,600 or less |
| Employment Status | Unemployed or Informal Employment |
| Other Government Grants Received | None (Child Support Grant Exception) |
| Required Documents | SA ID, Income Proof, Bank Account Details |
| Application Method | Online or USSD |
| Application Deadline | 29 July 2025, 11:59 PM |
How to Apply for the R6900 Grant Before the Deadline
Applications are being accepted via digital and in-person channels. Here’s how you can complete your application successfully:
- Visit the official DSD or SASSA grant portal
- Enter your SA ID number and phone number
- Verify your number via OTP
- Fill in your household income, employment status, and banking details
- Upload necessary documents (ID, income proof)
- Submit the form before 29 July
R6900 Grant – Application via USSD and Mobile App
For users without access to smartphones, the government has launched an easy-to-use USSD system.
- Dial 1347737# and follow the prompts
- You’ll receive a confirmation SMS once completed
- You can track your application status by dialling 1347737*1#
| Application Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | www.dsdbenefits.gov.za/grant-6900 |
| Mobile App | DSD Relief App on Android/iOS |
| USSD Code | 1347737# |
| Call Centre | 0800 601 011 |
| Required Submission Docs | SA ID, Proof of Income, Bank Proof |
| Confirmation Time | Within 48 Hours |
| Payout Time | Within 7–10 Working Days After Approval |
R6900 Grant Distribution Dates and Payment Channels
The distribution process is staggered based on the date of application and method of payout. Payments are processed weekly.
- Applications before 10 July – Payment by 17 July
- Applications between 11–20 July – Payment by 24 July
- Applications between 21–29 July – Payment by 7 August
Payment Modes
You can receive the grant via:
- Bank account (preferred for speed)
- Mobile wallets like eWallet or Instant Money
- Pick n Pay or Boxer collection (for those without accounts)
| Payment Method | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Transfer | 3–5 Days | Fastest and safest option |
| Mobile Wallet (eWallet) | 5–7 Days | Must match registered ID number |
| Pick n Pay Collection | 7–10 Days | Bring original ID to collect in person |
| Boxer Stores | 7–10 Days | ID and mobile confirmation required |
Grant Spending Guidelines and Restrictions
The grant is meant to support basic needs and emergency expenses. While no strict enforcement is placed on how the R6,900 is spent, certain uses are encouraged:
- Food and groceries
- School supplies for children
- Medical needs or transport
- Rent or utility arrears
Spending Restrictions
The following are not allowed:
- Use of funds for gambling or lottery
- Buying non-essential luxury items
- Transferring funds to another account to bypass audit
What Happens After 29 July – Final Notice
After 29 July, the government will no longer accept new applications under this program. All unclaimed or unspent allocations will be redirected to infrastructure and healthcare relief programs.
- Final payments will be processed until 15 August
- No appeal process will be available after deadline
- Previously rejected applicants will not get a second chance
- All funds must be used within 60 days or be forfeited
Warning Issued to Fraudulent Claimants
The DSD has confirmed that they will audit random applications. Anyone found guilty of:
- Submitting fake income proofs
- Using stolen identities
- Receiving multiple grants per household
…will face immediate reversal of funds and potential prosecution.
Key Reminders and Application Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure your application is complete:
| Requirement | Status Check |
|---|---|
| Valid SA ID | ✔ |
| Mobile Number Registered to You | ✔ |
| Monthly Income Below R5,600 | ✔ |
| Proof of Bank Account | ✔ |
| Application Submitted Before 29 July | ✔ |
| Confirmation SMS Received | ✔ |
| Application Number Saved for Tracking | ✔ |
This is your final opportunity to receive up to R6,900 under the R100 billion relief fund. The deadline of 29 July 2025 is non-negotiable. If you or your family fall under the eligible category, act immediately to secure your application. This temporary lifeline could provide much-needed support during one of South Africa’s toughest economic periods. Always use official portals and channels to avoid fraud and scams. Apply now—before the midnight cutoff.
FAQs of R6900 Grant
Q1: Can I apply if I’m receiving a child support grant?
Yes, the child support grant does not disqualify you from this R6,900 relief.
Q2: What happens if my application is rejected?
Unfortunately, no appeal is allowed after the 29 July deadline. Ensure documents are 100% correct.
Q3: How do I check my application status?
Use 1347737*1# or log into the official portal to track status updates.
Q4: Can more than one person in a household apply?
Yes, as long as each person has an individual ID and qualifies separately.
Q5: Is there a fee for applying?
No. Application is completely free. Never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.