The Pretoria High Court is set to hear a pivotal case regarding the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, with widespread implications for South Africa’s social welfare system. This two-day hearing will address whether the government’s management of the SRD grant aligns with constitutional obligations to provide financial assistance to vulnerable individuals. The Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) and advocacy group #PayTheGrants have raised concerns over restrictive eligibility requirements and insufficient grant amounts, arguing that the current framework excludes millions of deserving applicants.

Understanding the SRD Grant: Who Qualifies?

The SRD grant, initially introduced to mitigate the financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to serve as a lifeline for many South Africans facing poverty, hunger, and unemployment. However, advocacy groups argue that the eligibility criteria are excessively restrictive.

Currently, only individuals with an income below R624—the official food poverty line—qualify for the grant. The Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) points out that small, irregular transactions, such as financial gifts from family members, can disqualify applicants. This stringent means test has been criticized for excluding many people who still struggle to make ends meet, given that South Africa’s general poverty line exceeds R1,500.

Advocacy Groups Challenge Problematic Regulations

The IEJ and #PayTheGrants argue that the grant framework contains unconstitutional regulations that deny access to millions of South Africans in need. Neil Coleman, a senior policy expert at IEJ, highlights that government policies must not only aim to relieve poverty but also ensure fair access for all who meet the eligibility requirements.

“Nearly half of the people who need the SRD grant are excluded due to restrictive budget decisions,” Coleman explains. “The policy was meant to alleviate extreme poverty, yet the resources allocated fall short, leaving many ineligible even though they are in desperate need.”

In contrast to recipients of other grants, such as child support or old-age pensions, SRD applicants face additional hurdles. For example, while other grants allow in-person applications, the SRD grant requires online submissions—a barrier for those without internet access. Furthermore, SRD applicants are subjected to stricter income thresholds than beneficiaries of other social assistance programs.

Impact on Applicants and the Broader Economy

The exclusion of eligible applicants not only harms individuals but also impacts the broader economy. According to Nathan Taylor, coordinator of #PayTheGrants, the SRD grant amount, currently capped at R350 per month, is far below what is required for basic survival.

“The Treasury’s focus on balancing the budget overlooks the importance of the SRD grant in protecting people’s dignity and livelihoods,” Taylor says. “The grant’s amount doesn’t even cover essentials like rent, leaving recipients struggling to survive.”

Taylor also emphasizes that social protection must be more than just survival—it should create pathways to improved living conditions. He argues that the government’s failure to adjust the grant amount in line with inflation exacerbates poverty and food insecurity across the country.

The Pretoria High Court’s Role in Social Welfare Reform

The High Court hearing will scrutinize whether the government has fulfilled its constitutional duty to provide effective social assistance. Advocacy groups are not seeking the introduction of a basic income grant but are calling for adjustments to the SRD grant to prevent unfair exclusions.

Over 17 million South Africans applied for the SRD grant in September 2024, marking a significant increase from the 13.8 million applications in 2021. However, with the grant capped at 8.5 million beneficiaries, many applicants remain excluded despite meeting the eligibility criteria.

“The government’s approach effectively forces people into extreme poverty to qualify,” Coleman remarks. “We’re urging the court to address these unfair exclusions and reform the SRD grant system to reflect current socio-economic realities.”

The Path Forward for Social Assistance in South Africa

The outcome of this case will determine whether the government must adjust SRD grant regulations to provide fair access to all qualifying individuals. The Pretoria High Court’s decision will likely influence how future social grants are managed and whether South Africa’s welfare policies align with constitutional requirements.

For millions of vulnerable citizens, the SRD grant represents more than just financial aid—it offers a lifeline to dignity and survival. The ongoing legal battle highlights the urgent need for social welfare reforms that address not only poverty alleviation but also fair access to public assistance.