How to Apply for r350 grant in South Africa: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has become a vital support system for many South Africans. Administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), this grant provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals and those who do not receive other forms of government support. If you’re wondering how to apply for R350 grant, this article will walk you through the requirements, application process, and common mistakes to avoid.

Who Can Apply for the R350 Grant?

Before submitting your application, you must make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. As of 2025, applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen, refugee, asylum seeker, or special permit holder.
• Be 18 to 59 years old.
• Be unemployed and not receiving any income.
• Not be receiving another social grant or UIF benefits.
• Have less than R624 per month income (as per the means test).

Meeting these criteria is the first step to successfully applying for the SASSA R350 grant.

What Documents Do You Need?

You don’t need a long list of documents to apply. Typically, SASSA requires:

• South African ID number (or asylum/refugee permit number).
• Cellphone number (to receive SMS updates).
• Residential address.
• Bank account details (if you prefer direct payment).

How to Apply for R350 Grant (Step-by-Step)

There are different ways to apply for the R350 grant. Below are the most common methods:

1. Apply Online via SASSA Website

1. Visit the official SASSA SRD website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
2. Click on “Apply for SRD Grant”.
3. Enter your ID number and cellphone number.
4. Accept the terms and conditions.
5. Fill in your personal and banking details.
6. Submit your application.

Once submitted, you’ll receive an SMS confirmation.

2. Apply via WhatsApp

1. Save the SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
2. Send the word “hi”.
3. Follow the prompts to complete your application.

3. Apply via USSD (Mobile Code)

1. Dial *134*7737# on your phone.
2. Enter your details as prompted.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

This option is best if you don’t have access to the internet.

Checking Your R350 Grant Status

After applying, you can check your application status by visiting srd.sassa.gov.za and selecting “Check Status”. Enter your ID and cellphone number to see if your application was approved, pending, or declined.

Payment Options

Once approved, SASSA pays the R350 grant through:

• Direct deposit into your bank account (fastest and most secure).
• CashSend services (if you don’t have a bank account).
• Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, or Checkers retail stores.

Make sure your payment details are correct to avoid delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on How to Apply for r350

• Entering the wrong ID or cellphone number.
• Forgetting to update bank details if they change.
• Applying multiple times (this may delay approval).
• Not checking your status regularly.

Final Thoughts On how to apply for r350 grant

The R350 SRD grant continues to provide much-needed relief to South Africans who are unemployed or struggling financially. Applying is simple and can be done online, via WhatsApp, or USSD. Always double-check your details and follow up on your application status to ensure a smooth process.

If you’re eligible, don’t delay—apply for the R350 grant today and make sure your application is accurate to avoid rejection.

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