Will SRD R370 Grant Increase To R390 in April 2025?

Will the SRD R370 grant increase to R390 in April 2025? Many South Africans depend on this support, but rising costs make it harder to survive. A recent court ruling may push the government to raise the grant. Here’s what you need to know.

Will SRD R370 Grant Increase To R390 in April 2025? (Quick Answer)

The Pretoria High Court ruled that the SRD R370 grant must increase over time to match inflation. However, the South African government has not confirmed an increase to R390 in April 2025. Officials are reviewing policy changes, and new guidelines are expected before March 2025.

Current SRD Grant Status

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is currently R370 per month, up from R350 in April 2024. This temporary grant helps unemployed individuals with no other income sources. The government has not confirmed another increase yet, but recent legal decisions could lead to changes soon.

Court Ruling Could Affect SRD Grant Increase

In November 2024, the Pretoria High Court ruled that some SRD grant regulations were unconstitutional. The ruling challenged:

• The R624 income limit, which disqualified applicants receiving small, once-off payments.
• The online-only application process, which made it hard for people without internet access to apply.
• The grant amount, with the court ordering the government to increase it over time based on inflation.

This ruling means the government must review the grant amount and adjust it to match the rising cost of living. However, officials have not set a clear timeline or confirmed an increase to R390 yet.

Why Is an Increase Needed?

South Africa’s inflation rate remains high, making it harder for low-income individuals to afford food, electricity, and transport. According to Stats SA, inflation was 5.5% in 2024. If prices keep rising, the current R370 grant may not be enough to cover basic needs.

Social justice groups like #PayTheGrants and the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) argue that R370 is too low and should be raised to match inflation. They welcomed the court’s ruling, saying it could help ensure fairer social support.

What Is the Government’s Response?

The Department of Social Development (DSD) has not officially confirmed whether the SRD grant will increase to R390 in April 2025. However, the court ruling may force them to adjust the amount.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), responsible for managing SRD payments, is expected to release new guidelines before March 2025. The government also needs to decide how to fund any possible increase, considering budget limitations.

Possible Changes After March 2025

The SRD grant is set to continue until March 2025, but its future remains uncertain. Here are some possible scenarios:

1. Increase to R390 or More – If the government follows the court’s ruling, the grant may rise to R390 or higher to adjust for inflation.
2. Extended SRD Grant – The grant may continue beyond March 2025 with updated rules.
3. New Social Welfare Program – The government could introduce a new system combining employment initiatives with cash grants.

While an increase to R390 is possible, it has not been confirmed.

Who Will Qualify for the SRD Grant in 2025?

If the government follows the court order, some eligibility rules may change, making it easier for people to apply.

Expected changes include:
✔ Removing once-off payments from the income limit
✔ Expanding application options beyond online-only
✔ Adjusting the grant amount to match rising costs

The income threshold may also increase, allowing more people to qualify.

Conclusion

There is no official confirmation that the SRD R370 grant will increase to R390 in April 2025. However, the Pretoria High Court’s ruling could lead to changes. The government is still reviewing policy adjustments, and updates are expected before March 2025.