The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant will be paid earlier than usual in May. Payments typically start on the 25th of each month, but with the 25th falling on a Sunday, the agency will begin disbursing funds from 23 to 28 May instead.
SASSA spokesperson Andile Tshona confirmed the revised dates to The Citizen, stating that this month’s SRD grant payment will be processed from 23 to 28 May.
Grant beneficiaries are advised to monitor their bank accounts and SASSA notifications during this window.
Identity verification still a priority for SRD grant beneficiaries
While the early payment news may relieve many, SASSA has also stressed the ongoing need for beneficiaries to complete their identity verification process. This is particularly important for individuals flagged with an “identity verification” status, which may occur when the agency detects possible fraud or discrepancies in contact or banking details.
“There is no shortcut,” warned SASSA spokesperson in Mpumalanga, Senzeni Ngubeni.
“All beneficiaries who are required to go through this process must do so to avoid delays and disappointment of not receiving the grant.”
Those affected should visit their nearest SASSA office or log into the official SASSA website. Once the verification process begins, beneficiaries will receive an SMS containing a link that must be completed within 72 hours.
Stay Safe and Use Official Channels
Ngubeni also cautioned grant recipients about potential scams.
“Beneficiaries who have this status must not panic but verify at their SASSA local offices or log in to the website,” he explained.
He further urged beneficiaries to avoid sharing personal information with strangers and to use only trusted SASSA platforms for assistance.
To qualify for the SRD grant, applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or registered refugees, over 18, unemployed, and not receiving other social grants or living in a government-funded institution.
For support, SASSA can be reached at the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 during working hours, or via WhatsApp at 082 046 8553.
How can SASSA improve communication to ensure all SRD beneficiaries meet verification deadlines on time?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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