SASSA’s Appeal on SRD Grant Regulations: Background and Implications for Beneficiaries

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced its intention to appeal a recent High Court ruling that declared certain 2023 regulations governing the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant unconstitutional and invalid. This grant, set at R370 per month, has been a vital source of financial assistance for millions of South Africans facing economic hardships.

Background of the Court Case

In January 2025, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that SASSA’s 2023 regulations, which limited access to the SRD grant, were unconstitutional and invalid. The court found that the regulations unfairly excluded many eligible individuals by imposing restrictive criteria, such as the requirement for online-only applications and stringent definitions of “income” and “financial support.” These limitations had resulted in the exclusion of millions of potential beneficiaries.

The Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) and the advocacy group #PayTheGrants had initiated legal action against the Department of Social Development (DSD), SASSA, and the Ministry of Finance, challenging the constitutionality of these regulations. The court’s decision was hailed as a significant victory for vulnerable South Africans, affirming that up to 18.3 million people should be able to access the SRD grant.

SASSA’s Appeal and Its Implications

In response to the court’s ruling, SASSA has announced its decision to appeal the judgment. The agency contends that the regulations were designed to manage the financial sustainability of the SRD grant program and to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need. SASSA’s appeal aims to reinstate the 2023 regulations, which it believes are necessary for the effective administration of the grant.

The appeal process is expected to take several months, during which the current SRD grant regulations remain in effect. Beneficiaries should continue to monitor official communications from SASSA for updates on the status of the appeal and any potential changes to the grant’s administration.

Way Forward for SRD Grant Recipients

While the appeal is pending, SRD grant recipients are advised to:

  • Stay Informed: Regularly check SASSA’s official website and trusted news sources for updates on the appeal and any changes to the grant’s terms and conditions.
  • Maintain Eligibility: Ensure that all personal information and banking details are up to date to facilitate uninterrupted payments.
  • Engage with SASSA: If there are concerns or uncertainties regarding the grant, contact SASSA’s customer service for assistance.

The outcome of this appeal has the potential to significantly impact the accessibility and administration of the SRD grant. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay engaged and informed throughout this period.