False claims about the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant are spreading on social media, with posts suggesting foreign nationals can now access the grant through “newly amended” rules. The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) says that is not true.

Online Posts Spark Confusion

Sassa says it has seen growing public confusion driven by claims that asylum seekers and special permit holders are getting South African taxpayers’ money through updated SRD regulations. The agency has warned that this kind of misinformation can create unnecessary tension, especially in a country where social grants are a lifeline for millions of households.

Sassa Says No SRD Policy has Changed

Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi rejected the claims and said the information being shared online is “incorrect” and “misleading”. He said Sassa has not amended any policies or regulations linked to the Covid-19 SRD grant framework.

Letsatsi also said that any changes to social assistance policy fall under National Treasury and the Department of Social Development. He added that no changes were announced during recent budget processes, including the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement and the Department of Social Development’s Budget Vote Speech.

Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant

Sassa said SRD eligibility remains guided by regulations published in 2022. Under these rules, temporary assistance is aimed at people with insufficient means who are South African citizens, permanent residents, refugees, valid asylum seekers, or holders of specific special permits, as long as they meet the required age, residency and income criteria.

What the Latest Figures Show

Sassa said that as of 1 January it had received 14,135 SRD applications from permanent residents, refugees and special permit holders. Of these, 8,368 were approved and 2,690 had been paid.

Letsatsi urged the public to verify grant information through official Sassa and government channels before sharing it further.