Quick comparison at a glance
| Feature | SRD R370 | Child Support Grant | Older Persons Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly amount | R370 | R580 per child | R2,400 |
| Who qualifies | Unemployed adults 18-59, pass means test | Primary caregiver of child under 18, pass means test | South African citizen 60+, no means test |
| Means test | Yes (income/bank inflow limits) | Yes (household income limits) | No |
| Payment day | Separate batches throughout month | Third day of monthly stagger | First day of monthly stagger |
| Application | Online (srd.sassa.gov.za) or in person | In person at SASSA office | In person at SASSA office |
| Reapply | Every 6 months | Not automatic (review if requested) | Not required (unless circumstances change) |
| Official portal | srd.sassa.gov.za | services.sassa.gov.za | services.sassa.gov.za |
Payment flow diagram
SASSA pays grants in three batches each month. SRD is paid separately in batches depending on bank verification and approval status.
SRD R370: Who is it for?
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is a temporary safety net for unemployed South Africans aged 18 to 59 who cannot support themselves. It pays R370 per month and requires a means test (your income and bank inflows must be below a threshold).
Key features:
- Reapply every 6 months (applications expire)
- Can be applied for online at srd.sassa.gov.za or in person
- Paid in separate batches throughout the month (not on the 3-day stagger)
- If you get another grant (Older Persons, Disability, Child Support), SRD may be declined
Full SRD guide covers eligibility, decline reasons, and appeals.
Child Support Grant: Who is it for?
The Child Support Grant helps primary caregivers cover basic costs of raising a child under 18. It pays R580 per qualifying child per month (from April 2026) and requires a household means test.
Key features:
- You do not have to be the biological parent (any primary caregiver qualifies)
- Can receive alongside your own Older Persons or Disability Grant
- Paid on the third day of the monthly three-day stagger
- Applications are not automatic; SASSA may request periodic reviews
Full Child Support guide covers documents, eligibility, and what to do if declined.
Older Persons Grant: Who is it for?
The Older Persons Grant (old age pension) is for South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees who are 60 years or older. It pays R2,400 per month and does not require a means test.
Key features:
- First grant paid in the monthly three-day stagger (Day 1)
- No means test, no reapplication required (unless circumstances change)
- Can be received alongside Child Support Grants for children in your care
- Applied for in person at a SASSA office with your ID
Full Older Persons guide covers documents, payment dates, and how to apply.
Still unsure which grant applies to you?
- Call 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free, weekdays) and ask which grants you may qualify for.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID for a personalized eligibility check.
- Use our status check guide to understand what each grant covers.
AllSASSA is an independent information portal. We are not SASSA and cannot approve or decline applications.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SRD, Child Support, and Older Persons grants?
SRD (R370) is for unemployed adults 18-59 who pass a means test. Child Support (R580/child) is for caregivers of children under 18. Older Persons (R2,400) is for citizens 60+ with no means test. Each has different eligibility, payment schedules, and application processes.
Can I receive multiple SASSA grants at the same time?
Yes, in some cases. You can receive Child Support Grants for children in your care while also receiving an Older Persons or Disability Grant for yourself. SRD is generally incompatible with other grants if you have income above the threshold. Ask SASSA which combinations apply to your situation.
When are SRD, Child Support, and Older Persons grants paid?
Older Persons and Disability grants are usually paid on the first day of SASSA's monthly three-day stagger. Children's grants (including Child Support) follow on the third day. SRD is paid in separate batches throughout the month. See our payment dates page for the official 2026/2027 calendar.
How do I apply for each grant type?
All grants require an in-person visit to a SASSA office with your ID and supporting documents. SRD also has an online application option on srd.sassa.gov.za. See our how-to-apply guide for document checklists and common mistakes.
What happens if my application is declined?
Each grant type has different decline reasons. SRD commonly fails means test or identity verification. Child Support can fail household income thresholds. Older Persons is rarely declined if you meet the age requirement. Ask SASSA for the specific reason and appeal timelines.