What Is Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant and How to Get It ?

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Updated on October 2, 2024

What is the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant?

The Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant is a special grant introduced by the South African government as a way to support individuals and families who have been significantly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown measures. The grant was implemented to provide temporary relief to those who are unemployed and do not receive any other form of assistance or income. It aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by millions of South Africans during this challenging time.

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Eligibility Criteria for the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant

In order to be eligible for the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant, individuals must meet specific criteria set by the government. These include:

1. Citizenship

Applicants must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees registered with the Department of Home Affairs.

2. Age

Individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 59 years old.

3. Unemployment

Applicants must be unemployed and not receiving any form of income or financial assistance from the government or any other source.

4. Bank Account

Applicants are required to have a bank account. This is important for the payment of the grant.

5. Income Thresholds

Applicants should not have any income or receive any social grant or UIF payment.

6. Decline in Income

Individuals must provide evidence that they have experienced a significant decline in income due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown measures.

What Is Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant and How to Get It ?

How to Apply for the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant

Applying for the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant is a straightforward process that can be done online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before starting the application process, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above.

Step 2: Access the Online Application

Visit the official website of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to access the online application portal.

Step 3: Create an Account

If you haven’t previously applied for any grant online, you will need to create an account. This involves providing your personal details, contact information, and creating a username and password.

Step 4: Fill in the Application Form

Once you have created an account, you will be prompted to fill in the application form. This includes providing information such as your identification number, employment status, income details, and banking information.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

You will also need to upload specific documents to support your application, such as a copy of your South African ID, proof of bank account, and proof of unemployment or loss of income.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Once you have completed the application form and uploaded all the required documents, review the details for accuracy and submit the application.

Step 7: Await Feedback

After submitting the application, SASSA will review it and provide feedback on the outcome. If approved, you will start receiving the grant. You can Check the Status Here.

Amount and Duration of the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant

The Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant is a monthly payment of R350 that is issued for a period of six months. The grant is not taxable, and successful applicants will receive the payment through their provided bank accounts.

Conclusion

The Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant is a much-needed lifeline for many individuals and families in South Africa who have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. If you meet the eligibility criteria, it is crucial to apply for this grant to receive the temporary financial relief it offers. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily apply for the grant online. Remember to provide accurate information and supporting documents to increase your chances of approval. Together, we can navigate through these challenging times with the support of initiatives like the Social Relief of Distress Grant.