SRD Grant Ends – In a landmark development that marks a new chapter in South Africa’s social assistance program, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed the end of the Special Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant in July 2025. But while the SRD comes to a close, a bold new support system has been introduced in its place — the Universal Basic Income (UBI) Support Plan, offering a fixed monthly payment of R1,200 to millions of eligible citizens. This announcement, made during a press briefing by the Department of Social Development, comes amid growing pressure to permanently address poverty, unemployment, and economic instability among low-income South Africans. Originally launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRD Grant was meant to offer temporary relief. However, due to overwhelming demand and continued economic hardship, it remained in place for several years. With over 8 million monthly beneficiaries depending on the R350 SRD Grant, the end of this critical support raised concerns — until SASSA revealed the R1,200 Universal Basic Income initiative. This new program is designed to provide more consistent, dignified support to adults between the ages of 18 and 59 who do not receive any other social grants or UIF payments. It will be rolled out in phases starting August 2025 and is expected to cover more than 10 million South Africans by the end of the year. The implementation of the Universal Basic Income Support Plan signals a shift toward a long-term social safety net — a move that many have been calling for since the peak of the pandemic. Let’s explore the full details of this transition, who qualifies, how to apply, and what this means for all former SRD beneficiaries.
Key Highlights: SRD Grant Ends, Universal Basic Income Begins
The new Universal Basic Income Support Plan comes with updated eligibility rules, higher monthly payouts, and a phased rollout strategy.
- SRD R350 Grant officially ends on 31 July 2025
- New R1,200 monthly Universal Basic Income to start from 5 August 2025
- Over 10 million adults expected to benefit in 2025–2026
- Eligibility limited to unemployed South Africans aged 18–59 not receiving other grants
- Applications to open online and via WhatsApp by end-July
- Monthly bank payments, mobile vouchers, and cash options will be available
- National Treasury to review UBI value annually for inflation adjustments
SRD Grant vs. UBI Support Plan
| Feature | SRD Grant (Ending) | Universal Basic Income (Starting) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R1,200 |
| Duration | Temporary | Permanent (Annually Reviewed) |
| Beneficiary Age Range | 18–59 | 18–59 |
| Application Method | Online/WhatsApp | Online/WhatsApp |
| Proof of Income Required | Yes | Yes |
| Grant Type | Emergency Relief | Permanent Basic Income |
| Payment Methods | Bank, Post Office | Bank, Mobile, Cash Send |
| Beneficiaries (Est. 2025) | 8 Million | 10+ Million |
Who Will Qualify for the New R1,200 Basic Income Grant?
SASSA has outlined strict but accessible criteria to determine who will be eligible for the new grant starting August 2025.
- South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees
- Aged 18–59 years
- Not receiving any SASSA grant (old age, disability, child support, etc.)
- Not receiving NSFAS funding or UIF benefits
- Monthly income below R1,000
- Bank account verification required
- No recent formal employment
Common Disqualification Reasons You Must Avoid
These are the most common reasons applicants might be rejected from the new UBI Support Program.
- Being employed or registered with SARS as a taxpayer
- Receiving another form of government grant or UIF
- Providing mismatched bank account details
- Using someone else’s ID for application
- Failing SASSA’s fraud risk scoring system
UBI Rollout Plan: Province-Wise Coverage & Phase Dates
The Department of Social Development confirmed a phased rollout to prevent system overload and ensure accurate verification. Here’s how it will unfold:
| Rollout Phase | Provinces Covered | Start Date | Estimated Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Gauteng, Western Cape | 5 August 2025 | 3.1 Million |
| Phase 2 | KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape | 15 August 2025 | 2.7 Million |
| Phase 3 | Limpopo, Mpumalanga | 25 August 2025 | 1.5 Million |
| Phase 4 | North West, Free State | 5 September | 1.4 Million |
| Phase 5 | Northern Cape | 12 September | 600,000 |
| Phase 6 | National Final Review + Appeals | 25 September | Ongoing |
UBI Verification Timeline for Applications
After submitting your application, here is the general timeline you can expect:
- Week 1: ID and bank verification
- Week 2: Income and fraud scoring
- Week 3: Notification via SMS or email
- Week 4: First payment (if approved)
Payment Methods & Disbursement Dates
SASSA has introduced multiple payment methods for convenience, safety, and speed. Here’s what to expect.
| Method | Description | Monthly Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Transfer | Direct to applicant’s personal bank account | 5th–10th each month |
| Cash Send Option | For those without bank accounts | 8th–12th each month |
| Mobile Voucher | Redeemable at retail stores (Shoprite, etc.) | 10th–15th each month |
| Postbank Card | For select rural applicants | 12th–16th each month |
| In-person PayPoint | Only for special rural areas | 15th–20th each month |
How to Apply for the R1,200 Universal Basic Income Grant
Applications will open by end of July through multiple channels. Here’s how you can apply:
- Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Click “Apply for UBI 2025”
- Fill in your ID, contact, and bank details
- Upload supporting documents (proof of no income)
- Submit and wait for confirmation SMS
Alternative Application Methods
- WhatsApp “UBI” to 082 046 8553 and follow the prompts
- Visit your local SASSA office with ID copy and proof of address
- Use SASSA mobile app (coming August 2025)
What Happens to SRD Beneficiaries After July?
For those who were receiving the SRD R350 Grant, here’s what will happen next:
- All SRD payments stop on 31 July 2025
- Beneficiaries will be automatically pre-screened for UBI eligibility
- SMS invitation to apply for R1,200 grant will be sent if eligible
- No re-application needed if your bank and ID info is still valid
- You may receive your first UBI payment by 10 August if verified early
Transition Support for SRD Grant Holders
SASSA is planning a one-time transitional bonus of R500 for verified SRD holders who apply for UBI by 10 August.
- Must apply between 1–10 August
- Must pass income and ID verification checks
- Bonus will be paid with the first UBI disbursement
Impact on Other SASSA Grants
The rollout of UBI will not affect current old age, disability, or child support grants. However, if someone receiving these applies for UBI, their application will be automatically rejected. The UBI is meant only for those without other forms of state support.
Key Warnings for Fraud & Penalties
- Submitting false info can result in permanent blacklisting
- SASSA uses advanced AI verification systems to detect fraud
- Penalties include 5-year bans or legal action
The confirmation of the Universal Basic Income rollout brings renewed hope to millions of unemployed and struggling South Africans. Although the SRD Grant was a critical lifeline for years, the new R1,200 monthly support promises more financial stability and dignity. Beneficiaries are urged to apply early, avoid fraud, and ensure that their documentation is accurate to receive uninterrupted support. As the country transitions into a more inclusive and secure future, SASSA’s UBI initiative could mark the beginning of a more equitable South Africa.
FAQs of SRD Grant Ends
Q1: Is the new R1,200 Universal Basic Income Grant permanent?
Yes, it is designed as a long-term support system. However, the monthly value may change annually based on inflation reviews.
Q2: Can I receive both UBI and child support or old age grants?
No, UBI is only for individuals not receiving any other SASSA or UIF grants.
Q3: When is the last SRD R350 payment?
The last payment will be made between 25–31 July 2025.
Q4: What if I miss the UBI application deadline?
Applications will remain open indefinitely, but the R500 bonus will only be for those who apply by 10 August 2025.
Q5: How long does it take to get the first UBI payment?
Typically, within 4 weeks from the date of application, subject to successful verification.
Q6: Will I get backpay if I apply late?
No, UBI does not provide retroactive payments. Your grant starts the month you are approved.