The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, currently set at R370 per month, continues to help millions of unemployed South Africans survive tough economic times. For many families, this small but steady payment is the only source of income that keeps food on the table. But because the grant is means-tested and undergoes monthly verification, beneficiaries often worry whether their payment has been approved.
That is why checking your SRD payment status has become such an important step. In 2025, SASSA has made several tools available—ranging from the online portal to WhatsApp and USSD codes—so applicants can easily confirm whether their grant has been processed.
Why It’s Important to Check Your SRD Status
Unlike permanent SASSA grants, the SRD is reviewed every month. This means even if you were approved previously, your status could change based on income checks, banking details, or verification with other databases such as UIF or SARS.
For this reason, regularly checking your status prevents unnecessary trips to retail outlets or ATMs when the payment has not yet been cleared. It also gives you early warning if there is a problem with your application, allowing you to fix it quickly.
Methods to Check SRD Payment Status
Beneficiaries have several convenient options to confirm their grant status in 2025:
1. SASSA SRD Website
The official SRD portal remains the most reliable method. By logging in with your ID number and registered phone number, you can view:
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Application approval status.
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Payment date.
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Banking details linked to your account.
The website is updated regularly, especially around official payment weeks.
2. WhatsApp Service
SASSA’s WhatsApp service is another quick option. Simply send “Status” to 082 046 8553. The automated system will prompt you for your ID number and phone number, and then reply with your latest status update.
3. USSD Code
For those without internet access, the USSD option is a simple solution. By dialing *134*7737#, you can check your SRD payment status directly from any mobile phone. This is especially helpful for rural beneficiaries who may not have smartphones.
4. Call Centre
The SASSA helpline can also confirm your payment details, though lines are often busy during payment weeks. Still, it remains a useful backup if other methods are unavailable.
Common Status Messages Explained
When you check your SRD payment status, you may see several different messages:
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“Approved” – Your application for the month has been accepted, and a payment date will be provided.
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“Pending” – Your application is still being processed. This may require patience or further verification.
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“Declined” – Your application was rejected, often due to income being detected, duplicate applications, or mismatched information.
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“Reapplication Required” – You may need to reapply if your details are outdated or your application period has expired.
Understanding these messages helps beneficiaries know what action to take next.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Delayed
Delays can happen, even if your status shows “Approved.” Here are common reasons:
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Incorrect or outdated banking details.
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System backlogs due to high volumes.
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Verification issues with SARS or UIF databases.
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Public holidays affecting processing times.
To fix these, update your banking information on the SRD portal, or contact SASSA directly if the delay continues for more than a month.
Collecting Your Payment
Once approved, SRD payments can be received in several ways:
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Direct bank transfer – Fastest and most secure option.
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Retail partners – Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Boxer allow withdrawals using ID and registered phone number.
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Cash Send services – Beneficiaries without bank accounts can withdraw cash from ATMs using a secure code.
Most beneficiaries prefer direct bank transfers as they reduce travel costs and long queues.
Tips for Beneficiaries in 2025
To avoid missed or delayed payments, follow these practical steps:
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Always keep your banking details up to date on the SRD portal.
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Use WhatsApp or USSD regularly to check your status before traveling.
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Save proof of applications and SMS confirmations.
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Avoid scammers—SASSA never charges a fee to check or approve your application.
By staying informed, you reduce the risk of financial stress during payment cycles.
Looking Ahead – The Future of SRD
The SRD Grant remains temporary, but debates about converting it into a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) continue in 2025. While no official decision has been made, policymakers acknowledge that millions now rely on SRD as a survival tool.
Until a long-term solution is implemented, checking your SRD payment status each month remains the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on this vital support.
FAQs
How do I check my SRD payment status in 2025?
You can use the SASSA website, WhatsApp (082 046 8553), USSD code 1347737#, or the call centre.
What does “Pending” mean on my SRD status?
It means your application is still under review, and payment has not yet been scheduled.
Why was my SRD application declined?
Common reasons include detected income, incorrect information, or duplicate applications.
Can I change my banking details if they are wrong?
Yes. You can update your banking information directly on the SRD portal.
Will SRD continue after 2025?
The grant remains temporary, but discussions about moving to a Universal Basic Income Grant are ongoing.
Click here to know more.