How to apply for the SRD grant
On this page (5 sections)
Apply for the SRD grant free at srd.sassa.gov.za with just your ID number, a working cellphone number, and (optionally) bank details. One application covers ongoing months. You can also apply by WhatsApp (082 046 8553) or USSD (*134*7737#). No documents are uploaded — SASSA verifies everything against government databases.
Opens srd.sassa.gov.za. Applying is free — nobody may charge you for it.
Apply online (recommended)
- Open srd.sassa.gov.za
Confirm the .gov.za address. The application section is on the homepage.
- Confirm your phone number
Enter your number and confirm the OTP SMS. This number becomes your application's identity — guard it.
- Enter your details
ID number, name and surname exactly as on your ID, and answer the eligibility questions truthfully — every answer is checked against databases monthly.
- Add payment details
A bank account in your own name pays fastest. No account? Pick the cash/mobile option — compare methods.
- Submit and screenshot the confirmation
You'll get an application ID. If you don't reach a confirmation screen, the application doesn't exist — see no record found.
Apply by WhatsApp or USSD
WhatsApp: message “SASSA” to 082 046 8553 and follow the prompts, including the verification link it sends — the application is only complete after that link. USSD: dial *134*7737# and follow the menu; it works without data on a basic phone.
After you apply
Your first assessment happens in the current month's cycle; the outcome appears on your status check. Approved months pay after bank verification. There is nothing to renew monthly — but keep your phone number active and update it immediately if it changes.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone help me apply?
Yes — a family member or community worker can help, but do it on your phone number, and never share the OTPs afterwards. The number on the application controls everything.
I made a mistake on my application.
Details like banking and phone can be corrected via the portal (banking, phone). A wrong ID or name usually means the application fails identity checks — reapply correctly.
When is the deadline?
There is no deadline — you can apply any time, and assessment starts from your application month. Earlier is better: months before you applied are not paid.
Verified information
- Responsible body
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
- Official source
- sassa.gov.za
- Status
- Confirmed, some figures pending
- Date verified
- Confidence
- High confidence
Process and eligibility rules confirmed against official sources. Amounts marked * are widely reported 2026 figures still being traced to the Government Gazette.
SA Benefits is independent and not affiliated with SASSA or government. Editorial guidance on this page is clearly separated from official information — see how we verify.
What's changed on this page (1)
First published and checked against official sources. Future changes to figures, deadlines or processes will be listed here rather than silently edited.
Site-wide corrections are logged publicly in the corrections register.
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