Will the SRD R370 Grant Become Permanent? What We Know So Far

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, currently valued at R370 per month, was introduced as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, five years later, it remains in place extended multiple times by government. Now, millions of South Africans are asking: Will the SRD grant become permanent?

This article looks at the current policy debate, government positions, and what the future may hold for the SRD grant.

The Scale of the SRD Grant

Over 8 million beneficiaries receive the SRD grant each month. For unemployed South Africans without other income, it is a crucial safety net. Many households rely on the grant for essentials like food and electricity.

Government’s Official Position

The government has not yet declared the SRD grant permanent. Instead, it continues to extend it on a yearly basis. In the 2025 Budget, Treasury allocated funding until March 2026 but stressed that making the grant permanent would require a long-term funding source.

The Funding Challenge

Making the SRD permanent could cost over R40 billion annually. Treasury argues that without new taxes or budget cuts in other sectors, this is not sustainable. Options being debated include:

• Increasing VAT or income tax.
• Introducing a wealth tax on high-income earners.
• Cutting spending in other government programs.

Support from Civil Society

Civil society groups, including Black Sash and labour unions, strongly support making the SRD permanent. They argue that the grant reduces hunger, stimulates township economies, and provides dignity to millions.

Opposition and Concern

Critics warn that permanent SRD could:

• Increase dependency on government support.
• Discourage job-seeking if not paired with employment initiatives.
• Put further strain on the national budget.

Possible Alternatives Under Discussion

Policymakers are exploring options such as:

• Transforming SRD into a Basic Income Support Grant for working-age adults.
• Keeping SRD temporary but gradually increasing its value.
• Expanding employment-linked social programs instead of direct cash.

What Beneficiaries Should Expect

For now, SRD is funded until March 2026. Beneficiaries should continue applying and reapplying as required. Any move to make it permanent will likely be announced in a future National Budget Speech or through legislation.

FAQs

Is the SRD grant permanent now?

No. It is temporary and extended annually, with funding currently until March 2026.

Will the value of SRD increase soon?

Government has not announced an increase beyond R370. Any adjustment would depend on budget allocations.

Can I rely on SRD for the long term?

Not yet. Beneficiaries should reapply each cycle and stay updated on official announcements.

What would it take for SRD to become permanent?

Parliament must pass legislation, and Treasury must secure long-term funding through taxes or budget reallocations.

Final Thoughts

The SRD grant has become a lifeline for millions, but its future remains uncertain. While there is strong social and political pressure to make it permanent, the decision depends on whether government can find a sustainable way to fund it.

For now, beneficiaries should remain alert to official updates, continue applying, and understand that the debate over SRD is far from over.