The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the lives of many South Africans, leaving countless individuals and families without a steady income.
In response to this crisis, the South African government, in partnership with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), introduced the SASSA COVID-19 Grant.
This grant aims to provide financial relief to those who have been hardest hit by the pandemic.
What is the SASSA COVID-19 Grant?
The SASSA COVID-19 Grant is a temporary grant that was introduced in May 2020 to provide financial support to individuals who have lost their income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The grant is designed to help those who are not receiving any other form of financial assistance, such as UIF or other social grants.
Eligibility Criteria for the SASSA COVID-19 Grant
To be eligible for the SASSA COVID-19 Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 60 years old.
Residency Requirement
Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees registered with the Department of Home Affairs.
Income Requirement
Applicants must not be receiving any income, including UIF, NSFAS, or other social grants.
Bank Account Requirement
Applicants must have a valid South African bank account.
Identity Document Requirement
Applicants must have a valid South African identity document or a refugee permit.
How to Apply for the SASSA COVID-19 Grant
Applicants can apply for the SASSA COVID-19 Grant through various channels:
Online Application
Applicants can apply online through the SASSA website.
WhatsApp Application
Applicants can apply via WhatsApp by sending a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number.
USSD Application
Applicants can apply using the USSD code.
In-Person Application
Applicants can apply in person at their nearest SASSA office.
SASSA Call Centre
Applicants can also apply by contacting the SASSA call centre.
Application Process for the SASSA COVID-19 Grant
Once an application has been submitted, SASSA will verify the information provided and conduct a means test to determine eligibility. If the application is approved, the grant will be paid into the applicant’s bank account.
Waiting Period
Applicants can expect to wait up to 7 working days for their application to be processed.
Notification
Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application via SMS or email.
Payment
If the application is approved, the grant will be paid into the applicant’s bank account.
How Much is the SASSA COVID-19 Grant?
The SASSA COVID-19 Grant is R350 per month.
Payment Frequency
The grant is paid monthly.
Payment Duration
The grant is paid for a maximum period of 6 months.
Benefits of the SASSA COVID-19 Grant
The SASSA COVID-19 Grant provides several benefits to eligible applicants:
Financial Relief
The grant provides financial relief to individuals who have lost their income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Food Security
The grant helps to ensure food security for individuals and families who are struggling to make ends meet.
Economic Stimulus
The grant helps to stimulate the economy by providing individuals with the means to purchase essential goods and services.