Will the R370 Grant Still Exist in 2027? Here’s What We Know So Far
Quick Answer
- The SRD R370 grant is not ending in 2025 or 2026.
- Funding has been allocated until 31 March 2027.
- Current beneficiaries do not need to reapply.
- A redesigned “Livelihood Grant” is expected to replace the current SRD framework from 2027/28.
The SRD R370 Grant Is Not Ending in 2025 or 2026
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant was introduced in May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic at R350 per month. It increased to R370 in April 2022.
According to the February 2026 National Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed that an additional R36.4 billion has been allocated to extend the SRD grant until 31 March 2027 at its current value of R370 per beneficiary.
This means:
- The grant will continue throughout 2026.
- It will remain in place until the end of the 2026/27 financial year.
- No reapplication is required for currently approved beneficiaries.
More than 8 million South Africans currently depend on the grant as a primary source of income.
Why Is the Amount Still R370?
While other permanent SASSA grants received increases from April 2026, the SRD grant did not.
In the 2026 Budget Review, National Treasury reiterated concerns about fiscal sustainability. The SRD programme costs approximately R40 billion per year, making it one of the largest temporary social support interventions in South Africa’s history.
Although advocacy groups have called for an increase in line with inflation, no adjustment was announced in the 2026 Budget. Decisions regarding the grant’s value remain within the authority of the executive branch of government.
What Is the Livelihood Grant?
During the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the SRD grant would be redesigned into what he referred to as a “Livelihood Grant.”
Following this, the Finance Minister confirmed that:
- The structure and eligibility framework are still under discussion.
- Final details are expected in the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) later in 2026.
At this stage:
- No draft legislation has been published.
- No eligibility changes have been announced.
- No transition process has been outlined.
Importantly, the announcement does not affect current beneficiaries. Payments continue unchanged until March 2027.
What Happens After March 2027?
The 2026 Budget documentation indicates that the current SRD framework, originally introduced as COVID-19 relief, is expected to conclude from the 2027/28 financial year.
However, official statements indicate that support for beneficiaries is expected to continue under a redesigned structure.
The key distinction is that the existing SRD format may be replaced — not abruptly withdrawn. Final confirmation will depend on MTBPS announcements and subsequent policy publications.
This page will be updated immediately following any official government announcements.
Who Currently Qualifies for the SRD R370 Grant?
According to SASSA eligibility criteria, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or special permit holder
- Be aged 18 to 59
- Not receive any other social grant (excluding child support grants for caregivers)
- Not receive UIF benefits
- Not receive NSFAS funding
- Have a monthly income below R624
Applications and status checks can be completed at:
SRD Portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
Current Payment Schedule
SRD payments are processed between the 24th and 29th of each month.
Your specific payment date depends on your selected payment method. To check your payment date:
- Visit srd.sassa.gov.za
- Enter your ID number and registered cellphone number
What to Do If Your Application Was Declined
A declined application does not mean the grant is ending.
Common reasons for decline include:
- Income detected through government databases
- UIF registration
- Identity verification issues
You may appeal within 90 days of receiving a decline notice via the SRD portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SRD grant ending in 2026?
No. Funding has been confirmed until 31 March 2027.
Will the SRD grant increase above R370?
No increase was announced in the February 2026 Budget Speech.
Do I need to reapply because of the Livelihood Grant?
No. No reapplication is required at this stage.
Will beneficiaries lose support in 2027?
Budget documents indicate the current framework may be replaced. Final details will be confirmed in official policy announcements.
Official Contact Information
SASSA Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 (Monday–Friday)
Official SRD Portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
Sources
- National Treasury. Budget Speech 2026. February 2026.
- National Treasury. 2026 Budget Review. Social Development Expenditure.
- Presidency of South Africa. State of the Nation Address 2026.
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). SRD Grant Portal.
