In 2025, millions of South Africans will continue to rely on the SASSA SRD Grant for basic needs as the cost of living rises. With growing public speculation and online rumours suggesting an increase in the grant amount to R400, many beneficiaries are asking: Has the SASSA SRD Grant increased to R400? Here’s what you need to know based on verified sources and expert insights.
What is the SASSA SRD Grant?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), was introduced in May 2020 as a temporary relief measure to support unemployed individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally valued at R350 per month, the SRD grant has since become a critical support lifeline for over 8 million South Africans.
Latest Update: Has the Grant Increased to R400?
No, the SASSA SRD Grant has not increased to R400 as of April 2025. The latest confirmed increase occurred in April 2024, when Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that the grant would be raised from R350 to R370 per month.
“While this is a modest increase, it reflects the government’s commitment to support vulnerable individuals while balancing fiscal constraints,” said Godongwana during his 2024 Budget Speech.
Why R370 and Not R400?
According to the National Treasury’s 2025 Budget Review, the adjustment to R370 was primarily driven by budget limitations and the prioritisation of broader social programmes. The report emphasises that the SRD grant is still a provisional measure and that further increases are dependent on ongoing reviews of social spending.
“The future form and nature of the SRD will be informed by the outcome of the review of active labour market programmes,” Godongwana noted, hinting at potential structural reforms ahead.
Social Grant Increases: Who Got What in 2025?
While the SASSA SRD Grant saw no increase in 2025, other social grants were adjusted in line with inflation. The following changes were made:
- Old Age Grant: Increased from R2,185 to R2,315
- Child Support Grant: Increased from R510 to R530
- Disability Grant: Increased from R2,085 to R2,215
The SRD grant was notably excluded from these latest adjustments, reaffirming that the SASSA SRD Grant has not increased to R400.
Will the SRD Grant Increase Later in 2025?
Government officials have acknowledged the ongoing need for the SRD grant and are evaluating its role within South Africa’s long-term social security framework. Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu confirmed during her 2025 budget vote speech that a review is underway to determine how the SRD grant can evolve to better address unemployment and poverty.
“We are working closely with Treasury and other stakeholders to develop a sustainable model for social relief that goes beyond emergency measures,” said Zulu.
The outcome of this review is expected by September 2025. Until then, the SRD grant will remain at R370 per month.
Beneficiaries Urged to Be Cautious of Misinformation
SASSA has urged citizens to rely only on official channels for information. Numerous fake news stories and social media posts have falsely claimed that the grant has increased to R400.
To avoid scams and misinformation, beneficiaries should:
- Visit the official SASSA website
- Follow SASSA’s verified social media accounts
- Refer to reputable news outlets.
The SRD Grant Stands at R370
To answer the pressing question – Has the SASSA SRD Grant Increased to R400? The answer is no, not at this time. The grant was last increased in 2024 to R370, and no further adjustments have been made in 2025. While there are reviews underway that may impact its future value, for now, beneficiaries should budget based on the current R370 amount.
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