Sassa Grant Overview
The Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant (‘Covid-19 SRD grant) is a ‘special’ grant rolled out for a
six month period only, from May 2020. Eligible candidates will receive R350 each month during that
limited period. Origianlly this grant was only open to South African citizens, refugees and
permanent residents. On 18th June 2020, following litigation, by the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town
+ Norton Rose Fullbright, a court order was issued. This court order meant that people with asylum
seeker or ‘special permit’ status in South Africa would be able to access the Covid-19 SRD grant –
subject to certain criteria. This page explains more about applying for SRD grant if you are anasylum-seeker or special permit holder.
How to Get SASSA Form Reference Number?
Check your Sassa SRD Grant Receipt
When you apply for the SRD R350 grant through SASSA, they will assign you a reference number. This happens automatically during your application process. You will get a receipt when your application is submitted. On that receipt, you can check your reference number.
Find On WhatsApp
If you haven’t already saved the Sassa WhatsApp number then save this number 082 046 8553. Now send a message “SASSA” and wait for the reply.
Sassa will send you a prompt and you need to reply “status” to get more prompts. After that, you will get your reference number.
Obtain Reference Number Via USSD Code
If you want to use an internet-free method then use the USSD code method to get your Sassa reference number. For this purpose, you just need to dial *120*3210# on any mobile phone and follow the prompts.
In this method, there is no need to connect your phone to the internet or anything else. Just make sure you have an active mobile connection to use this method.
Check SASSA Reference Number Via Phone Call
To check your SASSA reference number by phone, you can call 0800 60 10 11. Follow these steps:
- Pick up your phone and dial 0800 60 10 11.
- Listen carefully to the automated voice prompts.
- Follow the instructions provided by the automated system. You will likely be asked to enter some personal information or your ID number to verify your identity.
- Once your identity is verified, you will get your SASSA reference number.
The system will provide you with the relevant information about your grant application, including your reference number, balance, or application status.
Make sure to have your SASSA reference number and any other required information ready before making the call to streamline the process.
How to Keep Sassa Reference Number Safe?
Keeping your SASSA reference ID safe is crucial for ensuring the security of your grant application and personal information. Here are five best tips on how to do it:
- Write it Down: As soon as you receive your SASSA reference number, write it down on a piece of paper. Make multiple copies and store them in different secure locations, such as a home safe or a locked drawer.
- Use a Password Manager: Consider using a reputable password manager application that allows you to store sensitive information securely. This way, you can access your reference number when needed while keeping it encrypted and protected.
- Avoid Sharing: Never share your SASSA ID with anyone unless you are certain of their legitimacy and their need for it. Scammers may try to trick you into revealing this information.
- Digital Copies: If you choose to store your reference number digitally, encrypt the file or use a secure cloud storage service with strong authentication. Ensure your computer or device is protected with a strong password or PIN.
- Memorise It: While not always practical, if possible, try to memorise your SASSA application number. This way, you won’t need to rely on written or digital records, reducing the risk of it falling into the wrong hands.
who can apply for the srd grant?
The following categories of people can apply for the Covid-19 SRD grant, subject to other criteria:
South African citizens, refugees, permanent residents – and those with asylum seeker visas or special
permits, so long as they were valid at the beginning of the national lockdown (15 March 2020). For
more information on the details you will need from your document see the pictures on page 4 and 5
below.
how do i apply for the srd grant?
The direct link is https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19b/auth or you can visit
You can apply online at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/ for additional ways to apply.
How long will i be able to receive the grant?
Scalabrini Centre’s successful Court Order provided that eligible individuals on asylum seeker
documentation or holders of a special permit, can be paid the grant for June, July, August September,
and October 2020, and any extended period provided for by the Department of Social Development,
should they decide to do so
My asylum permit/special permit has expired, can I still apply
for the Covid-19 SRD grant?
Yes, so long as your asylum seeker or special permit documentation was valid on 15 March 2020 (the
date that the National State of Disaster was declared) you are eligible to apply for the Covid-19 SRD
grant. Also note that any asylum seeker or refugee documentation that expired from 15 March 2020,
has been deemed extended by the Minister of Home Affairs until 31 October 2020.
I don’t have my original asylum seeker document/ special permit. I have a
copy only. Can I still receive the Covid-19 SRD grant?
Yes, all the applications will be verified by the Department of Home Affairs so as long as you are
registered on the Department of Home Affairs’ system, you are eligible to apply for the grant.
I have changed by address, and so it is not the same as the address on
my asylum document, which address must I use?
You must use your current address.
I do not have a bank account, can I still apply for the
Covid-19 SRD grant?
Yes. You do not need a bank account to receive the grant, it can be sent to your nearest post office
in a Postbank account.
What documents will I need to apply for the Covid-19 SRD grant?
You will need your asylum seeker document, or your passport with your special permit in it.
You will also need these documents if you collect your money
After making the application, when will I know whether I will
receive the grant?
Once the application has been validated, client will receive a sms with the outcome of the application.
You can also check the status of your application here https://srd.sassa.gov.za/
If my application for the grant is declined, can I appeal this decision?
Yes, you would need to send an email to: covid19srdappeals@sassa.gov.za or visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/
I am an asylum seeker. My husband and I are on the same file, can we
both apply for the grant?
Yes, you can both apply. You would each need to do the application separately. If you have any
difficulties, contact: 0800 60 10 11 or visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/
My children are documented in my asylum file, can they
apply on their own for the grant?
The Covid-19 SRD grant is only available to persons who are older than 18 years old. If your children
are documented in your asylum file, but are over the age of 18 years, then they may be eligible to
apply.
You can apply directly here: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19b/auth
For frequently Ask questions go to : https://srd.sassa.gov.za/assets/faq.pdf
i have an asylum seeker document. Which reference number /
ID number do I use for the application?
You must use the File Number as it appears on your asylum seeker document. Note that other
mandatory information is also required during application, but the File Number is used to uniquely
identify each applicant. People with an asylum seeker visa must provide the following information:
i have an asylum seeker document. Which reference number /
ID number do I use for the application?
File Number
First Name
Surname
Date of Birth
Gender
Permit Expiry Date
Which reference number / ID number do I use for the application?
Special Permit Holders must provide both the Reference Number and Passport Number as it appears
on their permit. Note that other mandatory information is also required during application, but the
Reference Number and Passport Number combination is used to uniquely identify each applicant.
Special Permit holders must
provide the following
information:
Reference Number
Passport Number
Control Number
First Name
Surname
Date of birth
Gender
Permit Expiry Date