YES! Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA could increase in 2024

When it comes to the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA, many civil groups and political parties are up in arms. During one of the most trying times of the year for the aged and needy, an SRD Grant only pays a poultry R350 per month. Many are saying this is not enough to make a meaningful difference to those in financial distress.

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At last count, of the 27.3 million people who receive SASSA grants – 8.4 million people receive the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA. Earlier in the year, Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu boasted to Parliament about how government was providing 45% of South Africa’s population with grants.

SOCIAL RELIEF OF DISTRESS GRANT IN SA

Similarly, President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was proud of the incredible achievement post the COVID-19 pandemic. He said no government in Africa has as many grant recipients and has done as much to alleviate poverty. However, many in civil society have highlighted this fact as an indictment of the ANC government. They’ve said it shows the ANC’s financial and job-creation policies have failed.

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Now, according to IOL, Deputy President Paul Mashatile has said the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA will be reviewed in 2024. He admits that repeated concerns were raised about it not keeping up with inflation. Earlier in the year, around the time of the 2023 budget speech, GroupUp reported that the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA should be increased to R413 in line with inflation.

SRD GRANT NOT KEEPING PACE WITH INFLATION

This figure was according to the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) and the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI). It also noted concerns over the expiry date of the grant, which has thankfully been remedied with an extension into 2025. Similarly, IEJ and SERI lobbied to do away with the means test and bank verification process which has seen millions of people excluded from the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA in the past.

UNIVERSALLY CRITICISED

Currently, to qualify for the Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA, applicants must earn less than R624 per month (single or married). And there is no asset portion to the assessment. If you are in dire financial need, simply click HERE and follow the prompts to see if you qualify.

ALSO READ: Important INFO on HOW to pass the SASSA Means Test

While various civil society groups have proposed different amounts for a basic income grant; anything ranging from R650 to R1 400 per month, there is almost universal agreement that the R350 SRD Grant is nowhere near enough to combat the current cost-of-living crisis.

NO MORE EXCLUSIONS

“While there is widespread support for this SRD grant, there are concerns that many deserving people are excluded from the grant and that the value of the SRD grant has not kept up with inflation. As the ANC government, we will tackle these exclusions and ensure that the value of the grant is reviewed,” concluded Mashatile.

NEXT READ: FAQ: When must you reapply for a SASSA Old Person’s Grant?

Do you receive a Social Relief of Distress Grant in SA? Is it enough every month? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.

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