If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve either been ghosted by your R350 or you’re bravely trying to reclaim it after a rejection, expiry, or a case of SASSA doing what SASSA does best: leaving you confused.
We get it. Life in South Africa is expensive, and that R350 may not seem like much, but when times are tough, it could mean electricity for the week or a few days of pap and pilchards. So, let’s break down how to re-apply for the SASSA R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, in the most human way possible – step by step, with a little humour to make it bearable.
First Things First: Why Re-Apply?
You might need to re-apply for the R350 SRD grant if:
- Your previous application expired (the grant is reviewed every few months).
- You were declined but believe it was unfair.
- Your details changed (banking info, address, employment status).
- You skipped the monthly reconfirmation.
- You just want to make sure your info is up to date – because with SASSA, safe is better than sorry.
What You’ll Need to Re-Apply
Before you begin, make sure you’ve got:
- Your South African ID number
- Your cellphone number (linked to your ID)
- An active bank account (unless you choose the cash send option)
- A good chunk of patience – optional, but highly recommended
Step-by-Step: How to Re-Apply for the R350 Grant
Step 1: Head to the Right Website
Don’t get scammed. Use only the official SASSA SRD portal:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za
This site is your best friend (and occasionally, your worst enemy – depending on the server mood that day).
Step 2: Scroll to “How do I apply?”
Yes, we know you’ve applied before, but the re-application process is the same as the first time. You’re not getting special treatment for being a returnee.
Click on the “click here to apply online” button.
Step 3: Fill In Your ID and Phone Number
SASSA needs to confirm that it’s really you. If you’ve changed your number since the last application, you’ll need to update that first. Otherwise, it’s a no-go.
Step 4: Receive the OTP (One-Time Pin)
This part can test your faith in mobile networks. Wait for the OTP SMS. If it doesn’t arrive within 5 minutes, check if:
- Your number is registered under your name
- You have signal
- Your phone didn’t eat the message (it happens)
Once you get it, enter the OTP on the website.
Step 5: Reconfirm Your Details
This is super important. You need to reconfirm every few months to show SASSA that you still qualify. They ask things like:
- Are you still unemployed?
- Are you still not receiving UIF or NSFAS?
- Are you still South African? (Yes, really. Every time.)
Answer honestly. SASSA has systems to verify info against SARS, banks, and other databases. If they catch you fibbing, you’ll be disqualified faster than you can say “but I needed electricity!”
Step 6: Choose How You Want to Get Paid
You can choose:
- Direct bank transfer (fastest, safest)
- Cash send via major banks (for those without accounts)
- Post Office payouts – not recommended unless you love long queues and mystery delays
Make sure your bank account matches your ID, or the payment won’t go through.
Techboy, What Happens After You Re-Apply?
Once submitted, your application goes through verification checks:
- Home Affairs: To confirm your ID.
- SARS/NSFAS/UIF: To see if you’re already receiving government support.
- Banking checks: To ensure you’re not sitting on a secret inheritance.
This usually takes a few days to a week. But during busy periods (like after re-opening applications), it may feel like you’re waiting for Thabo Bester to admit guilt.
You can check your status here:
https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
Monthly Reconfirmation – Don’t Forget
SASSA wants to make sure you’re still broke every month. No offence – that’s just how the system works. So, you must reconfirm your need regularly on the same website.
Miss a reconfirmation, and you might skip a month’s payment. Not ideal when you’re budgeting down to the last R5.
What If You’re Rejected?
Let’s face it: SASSA rejections are a national trauma.
Common reasons for rejection:
- “Alternative income source identified” – because R480 randomly entering your Capitec account looks suspicious.
- “UIF Registered” – even if you haven’t worked since lockdown.
- “NSFAS Recipient” – SASSA assumes students don’t need to eat.
- “Identity Verification Failed” – time to update your Home Affairs record.
You can appeal the decision here:
https://srd.dsd.gov.za
Appeals must be lodged within 30 days, so don’t wait. Write your appeal like it’s a high school essay with a purpose – short, clear, and to the point.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Make sure your bank account matches your ID.
- Keep your phone number consistent.
- Don’t have random deposits that look like income.
- Reconfirm monthly.
- Keep checking your application status.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Re-applying for the R350 grant can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube during loadshedding – blindfolded. But you’re not the only one navigating this maze. Every month, millions of South Africans go through the same process, hoping for that sweet SMS: “Your R350 has been paid.”
Whether you use that R350 for bread, electricity, baby formula, or taxi fare, it matters. It may not be enough, but it’s something, and you’re entitled to it if you qualify.
If you found this helpful, share it with someone else pulling their hair out trying to re-apply. And remember: the system may be frustrating, but with the right info, you’ve got this.
Need help with appeals or still stuck? Drop your question in the comments and we’ll help each other out – because if the system won’t work for us, at least Ubuntu will.