As the festive season approaches, many South Africans relying on the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant can breathe a sigh of relief.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed that the R370 SRD grant payments are scheduled to be disbursed between December 17th and 23rd, 2024, ensuring that beneficiaries have access to these crucial funds before the holiday period.
| Monthly Social Grants | SASSA Payment Status |
|---|---|
| Older Person Grant (Old Age Pension) | 3 December 2024 (Tuesday) |
| War Veterans Grant | 3 December 2024 (Tuesday) |
| Disability Grant | 4 December 2024 (Wednesday) |
| Care Dependency Grant | 4 December 2024 (Wednesday) |
| Child Support Grant | 5 December 2024 (Thursday) |
| Foster Child Grant | 5 December 2024 (Thursday) |
| SRD R370 – SASSA R350 Grant | 18 to 22 December (Wednesday to Sunday) |
This news comes as a welcome relief for millions of South Africans who depend on the SRD grant for essential needs.
With the cost of living continuing to rise, particularly during the festive season, the timing of these payments is crucial for many households struggling to make ends meet.
The grant provides a vital lifeline, assisting with basic necessities like food, transport, and other essential expenses.
SASSA has urged beneficiaries to be patient and avoid rushing to withdraw their funds on the first day of payment.
The agency has reassured recipients that the money will remain safely in their accounts until they are ready to access it.
This message aims to prevent overcrowding at ATMs and retail outlets, which can be particularly problematic during the busy festive period.
“We understand the importance of these grants, especially during this time of year,” said a representative from SASSA.
“We want to assure all beneficiaries that their payments will be processed within the specified timeframe. There is no need to panic or rush to withdraw the money immediately. It will be available when they need it.”
The agency also took the opportunity to reiterate its warnings about scams and fraud. With the increased financial activity during the festive season, scammers often target vulnerable individuals with deceptive tactics.
SASSA emphasized that it will never request personal information, such as One-Time Pins (OTPs), via WhatsApp, social media, or any other unofficial channels.
Beneficiaries are urged to be vigilant and to never share their personal details with anyone they do not trust.
“We have seen an increase in fraudulent activities around grant payments,” the SASSA representative continued.
“We urge beneficiaries to be extremely cautious. Remember, SASSA will never ask for your OTP or banking details through social media or WhatsApp. If you receive such a request, it is a scam, and you should report it immediately.“
This announcement regarding the SRD grant payments comes alongside the confirmation of payment dates for other social grants.
Older Persons Grants will be paid from December 3rd, Disability Grants from December 4th, and Children’s Grants from December 5th.
This staggered approach is also designed to manage the flow of beneficiaries and prevent overcrowding at payment points.
While there have been previous discussions and hopes for a potential “bonus” payment during the festive season, SASSA has clarified that beneficiaries will receive their standard monthly grant amounts.
This clarification aims to manage expectations and prevent any confusion.