Since October 2025, SASSA has planned to terminate many of the social grants that are now regarded as temporary or emergency social assistance. Elsewhere, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, the provision of which has been extended many times beyond the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now scheduled for total phase-down. Furthermore, COVID-19 top-ups that were paid on top of existing grants will also come to a halt. As far as the Temporary Disability grant is concerned (aimed at those whose disabled condition is expected to improve within a year), it will be restructured with more stringent qualifying criteria.
Why Is SASSA Making These Cuts?
The decision to cease these grants is motivated by a number of reasons. First, fiscal constraints: the national budget is under pressure and emergency relief programs are considered unsustainable over the long run. Second, the Government is moving away from pandemic-style support to more stable, long-term types of social security. Third, the aim is also to reduce dependency on temporary grants and to promote self-sufficiency and employment. Thus, these changes are presented as a reallocation of monies towards those who have permanent vulnerability, like the elderly, permanently disabled, and child support grants, rather than simply withdrawal of support.
Timeline and What Should Be Done
Beneficiaries already have a final deadline given to them, with the cuts taking effect on October 31, 2025. It is expected that the phaseout will be initiated about six months prior to the terminating date when beneficiaries will be issued with their notices. Beneficiaries should attempt to verify their grant status with SASSA by April 2025 or if they can do so later, then call, visit a local SASSA office, or check online. If you are currently receiving one of these grants set for termination, then before the deadline you should try to top up your source of support or apply for other more sustainable grants.
How to Check If You Are Implicated
First, find out which grant you are receiving to check if the grant will be terminated (for example SRD, Temporary Disability, and COVID top-ups). Next, call SASSA’s toll-free helpline number on 0800 60 10 11 and provide your ID and grant reference; or visit the nearest SASSA office. SASSA would, in all probability, also keep the self-service tools on its website updated so that beneficiaries can check the status of their grant themselves and find out if their benefits are scheduled for cessation. Do not rely on gossip but verify from official sources.
Real Impact and Personal Stories
The cuts will certainly affect the day-to-day lives of vulnerable households. For instance, a household from KwaZulu-Natal, which relies on income from the SRD grant and temporary disability grant, must now replan its budget. According to one beneficiary, Thandi Mthembu, without both grants, she would not be able to feed her children and pay for their school fees. In fact, she is already undergoing skills training in anticipation of the changes-a step that the community support groups are trying very hard to urge people to take in.”
Also Read: South Africa Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Flooding And Storm Warnings Issued