The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed the payment schedule for the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for January 2026, bringing relief to millions of beneficiaries across the country.
According to SASSA, eligible applicants will receive their SRD payments between January 23 and January 28, 2026. Beneficiaries are advised to regularly check their payment status to avoid missing updates or delays.
January 2026 SRD Payment Dates
- Payment period: 23 January – 28 January 2026
- Grant type: COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD)
SASSA has reiterated that payments may reflect on different days depending on individual verification and banking processes.
Who Qualifies for the SASSA SRD Grant?
The SRD grant is intended for individuals who require temporary financial assistance and have insufficient means of support.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 60 years old
- Be currently residing in South Africa
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or holder of a valid special permit
(including Zimbabwe Exemption Permit, Lesotho Exemption Permit, or Special Angolan Dispensation) - Asylum seekers must hold a valid Section 22 permit or visa
- Not be living in a government-funded or subsidised institution
- Not unreasonably refuse employment or educational opportunities
Applicants must also be registered on the Department of Home Affairs database or the SASSA social grant system, including those with system-generated identification numbers for individuals without formal identity documents.
Important Reminder from SASSA
SASSA has urged all qualifying applicants to:
- Check their SRD status regularly
- Ensure banking details and personal information are up to date
- Respond promptly to any verification requests
Failure to update details may result in delayed or declined payments.
How to Check Your SASSA SRD Status
Beneficiaries can check their SASSA SRD status online using their ID number and registered mobile number. Status updates will confirm whether the payment has been approved, declined, or is pending.
Tip: Payment dates are only final once your status shows “Approved” for January 2026.
Final Word
The confirmation of January 2026 SRD payment dates provides much-needed clarity for beneficiaries relying on the grant for basic needs. SASSA continues to encourage eligible individuals to remain proactive by checking their status and ensuring compliance with all requirements.
For the latest SASSA SRD updates, payment dates, and status check information, stay connected with our site.
