2025 SASSA SRD Grant – How to File Appeals and Steps to Get Approved

The SASSA SRD R370 grant remains a vital support system for millions of unemployed South Africans in 2025. But what happens when your application gets declined? Whether it’s due to incorrect data, outdated records, or misunderstood income, you have the right to appeal—and in many cases, that appeal can succeed.

This guide walks you through every step of the appeal and re-appeal process, so you don’t miss your chance at receiving the support you deserve.

Overview

Topic	Details
Grant Name	SASSA Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
Amount	R370 per month
Appeal Deadline	Within 90 days of receiving your rejection
Re-Appeal Option	Within 180 days via the High Court
Eligibility	SA citizen, unemployed, income under R624/month
Appeals Website	srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals

SRD Grant

Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SRD Grant has been extended to support unemployed adults with little or no income. In 2025, the payment increased slightly to R370 to help cover basic living costs, from food and transport to hygiene items.

You’re eligible if:

• You’re unemployed and between ages 18 and 59
• You earn less than R624 per month
• You’re not receiving any other grants or UIF payments
• You’re not supported by NSFAS or another financial aid program

Why Applications Get Declined

Before appealing, it’s essential to understand why your application was rejected. Common reasons include:

• Identity verification failed
• UIF registration found, even if no benefits are received
• Alternative income detected (e.g., bank deposits over R624)
• Receiving another SASSA grant
• Missing or mismatched personal details

Knowing the reason helps you prepare a stronger appeal.

How to Appeal

Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals

Enter Your ID and Phone Number

Input your 13-digit ID number and the mobile number you used in your original SRD application.

Verify with an OTP

Click “Send PIN” and wait for a one-time code via SMS. Enter it to proceed.

Choose Which Month(s) to Appeal

If your application was declined for multiple months, you must appeal for each one separately.

Select a Reason

Choose from a list of reasons, such as:

• Identity verification error
• Not receiving UIF
• Incorrect income detection

Upload any relevant documents, including:

• Recent bank statements
• UIF non-payment confirmation
• Affidavits or written statements
• Job termination letters

Submit and Track

Submit your appeal and save the reference number. You can use it to check the status of your appeal online.

What Happens After You Appeal?

Your appeal goes to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA), a separate body from SASSA.

• Processing time: 60 to 90 days
• Notifications: You’ll receive SMS updates as your case progresses
• Back Pay: If successful, you’ll receive any missed payments

If your appeal is approved, you’ll begin receiving your monthly R370 grant and be compensated for the months you missed.

Re-Appealing

If the Tribunal denies your appeal but you believe an error was made, you can escalate the issue through the High Court.

You should re-appeal if:

• You were misidentified as receiving UIF
• Your banking records were misinterpreted
• You’ve collected new evidence that wasn’t previously available

This legal route must be taken within 180 days of your final appeal outcome. Legal aid and advocacy groups like Legal Aid South Africa can help guide you through the process.

Real-World Example

Sipho, 36, from Mpumalanga, had his application denied because of an outdated UIF record. He appealed online with a letter from the Department of Labour confirming he wasn’t receiving UIF. His grant was approved within 75 days, and he received three months’ worth of back pay.

This example shows that proper documentation and a clear explanation can turn things around.

Expert Tips

• Use the same phone number: If you’ve changed numbers, update it with SASSA first.
• Update personal info: Ensure your ID and name are correct and match Department of Home Affairs records.
• Avoid unexplained deposits: Even a single R700 deposit can trigger a rejection.
• Submit clear documents: Blurry or partial uploads won’t help your case.
• Track each month: Eligibility is reviewed monthly—you may qualify one month and not the next.
• Appeal promptly: You have only 90 days to appeal each month’s rejection.

Being rejected for the SRD R370 grant in 2025 can be upsetting, but the appeal process is fair and accessible. Many people are approved after submitting better documentation or correcting application errors. Take your time, follow the steps, and you could get back on track with the financial help you need.

FAQs