Over 3.5 million apply for special Covid-19 relief grant

More than 3.5 million people have applied for the new special Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant within three days of the system going live.

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) started taking nationwide applications for the grant on 11 May. As of 14 May, 3 585 040 applications were received. Over two million applications were made using the USSD (SMS) line.

A statement released by the National Department of Social Development said, “The applications are currently being assessed and verified. Those eligible will be notified and will start to receive their first payment of the six-month Special Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant of R350 by 15 May.

“The department wishes to stress that the first payment file was meant for testing. When the payment system is finalised more regular payments will be made. Once an application has been approved, Sassa will ask for banking details. Those who have not been asked for banking details must know that they are not going to be paid tomorrow [15 May].

“We appeal to people to wait to be contacted and not visit Sassa offices.”

Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu said, “The special Covid-19 SRD Grant is intended to mitigate the undue hardships faced by individuals and families through this difficult time. We are pleased with the intake so far and we urge all eligible individuals to apply on time

“Once again, we appeal to those already receiving social grants not to apply as they are not eligible for the Special Covid-19 SRD Grant. It is only meant to benefit persons who are currently not receiving any form of income support from government.”

People can apply in one of three ways:

• WhatsApp line: 082 046 8553
• USSD or SMS line: *134*7737#
• Online: srd@sassa.gov.za

An applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee who is registered on the Home Affairs system and is a resident within the borders of the Republic of South Africa.

“To ensure that the information system is not clogged, we appeal to all applicants not to upload any form of documentation on the application,” concluded Zulu.