The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, introduced in 2020 as a temporary measure, has become a lifeline for over 9 million unemployed South Africans.
With the government extending it until March 2025, many are asking: Will the SRD grant continue beyond 2025, or will it be replaced with a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG)?
This article covers everything you need to know about the future of the SRD grant, the latest increases, and what might happen next.
SASSA SRD Grant Extension Until March 2025
During his State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed the extension of the SRD grant until March 2025, acknowledging its critical role in fighting poverty.
Government’s Statement on the SRD Grant
✅ President Ramaphosa: “The SRD grant continues to be a crucial support for millions, ensuring they can meet their basic needs during these difficult times.”
✅ Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana: “The extension will provide financial relief while the government evaluates sustainable long-term solutions.”
The 2024 budget allocated R33.6 billion to fund the SRD grant, with extra funds reserved for the next two years.
SRD Grant Increase in 2024–2025
From April 2024, the SRD grant increased from R350 to R370 per month, a 5.7% rise aimed at offsetting inflation and the rising cost of living.
| Period | SRD Grant Amount |
|---|---|
| 2020 – 2023 | R350 per month |
| 2024 – 2025 | R370 per month (+R20 increase) |
📌 While this increase provides some relief, many argue that it is still too low compared to the cost of food and basic necessities in South Africa.
What Happens After March 2025?
While the government has extended the SRD grant, its long-term future remains uncertain. Several factors will determine whether it will continue beyond 2025:
✅ Additional Revenue Generation – The government must identify new income sources to sustain the grant.
✅ Budget Adjustments – The state may need to reallocate funds from other areas.
✅ Economic Stability – South Africa’s economic performance will influence social welfare spending.
📌 There is no official confirmation on whether the SRD grant will continue after March 2025.
Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) – The Future of Social Support?
The government is considering replacing the SRD grant with a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG), which would provide a long-term solution to poverty and unemployment.
How Would UBIG Work?
✔️ Monthly payments to all eligible citizens to provide financial security.
✔️ Integrated with other social grants, ensuring better support for low-income households.
✔️ Aims to replace temporary grants like SRD, making assistance more sustainable.
Challenges of UBIG Implementation
❌ Funding Issues – Can the government afford UBIG without raising taxes or cutting other programs?
❌ Policy Complexity – Designing a system that does not overlap with existing grants.
❌ Political Agreement – Needs support from all parties and stakeholders.
📌 UBIG is still in the early discussion phase, and its implementation will depend on extensive economic studies and public consultation.
What This Means for SRD Recipients
What You Need to Know Now
✔️ SRD Grant Will Continue Until March 2025 – You will keep receiving R370 per month.
✔️ Possible Future Grants – The government may introduce UBIG after 2025.
✔️ Stay Updated – Keep checking SASSA announcements for official decisions.
How to Prepare for the Future
✅ Ensure your banking details are up to date with SASSA.
✅ Check eligibility for other grants (Child Support, Disability Grant, etc.).
✅ Look for job training programs that could help improve employment chances.
The SASSA SRD grant has been a crucial support system for millions of unemployed South Africans. While it has been extended until March 2025, its future remains uncertain.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✅ The SRD grant has increased to R370 per month in April 2024.
✅ The grant will continue until at least March 2025.
✅ The government is discussing replacing SRD with a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG).
✅ No official decision has been made yet about what will happen after 2025.
📌 Stay informed by checking SASSA’s official website and government updates for any future changes!
