New UBIG Grant Launches in May! SASSA Confirms Monthly Relief for Millions

New UBIG Grant –  In a major relief effort for unemployed and vulnerable citizens, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially launched the new Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) in May 2025. This grant aims to replace the older SRD R350 grant with a more structured and sustainable support system. The move is expected to benefit millions across the country who are currently unemployed or living below the poverty line. Here’s everything you need to know about the new UBIG grant – eligibility, payment dates, application process, and more.

What Is the New UBIG Grant and Why It Was Launched

The Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) is a monthly financial support scheme introduced by the South African government to reduce extreme poverty and stimulate the economy through direct cash transfers. It is designed to support adults who are currently unemployed and not receiving any other form of government grant or UIF payments.

This newly launched grant replaces the temporary SRD R350 grant, which was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government aims to transition into a more permanent and predictable relief structure for long-term economic inclusion.

Key Features of the UBIG Grant:

• Monthly payment of R370
• Available to unemployed South Africans aged 18-59
• No need for UIF or existing social grant support
• Online and walk-in application processes
• Payments begin in May 2025

Who Qualifies for the UBIG Grant in 2025

To be eligible for the UBIG grant, applicants must meet specific criteria set by SASSA. The agency will also perform automatic income verification through bank accounts and other databases to ensure the grant reaches only deserving beneficiaries.

Eligibility Criteria:

• South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee registered on Home Affairs systems
• Age between 18 to 59 years
• Not receiving any other SASSA grants
• Not registered with UIF or receiving unemployment benefits
• Monthly income below R624
• Must pass the means test by SASSA

Important: Applicants must also provide their ID number, bank account details, and contact information during the application process.

UBIG Grant Amount, Payment Schedule, and Disbursement Channels

SASSA has confirmed that the new grant will be R370 per month, slightly increased from the earlier SRD grant.

Below is a table showing the projected payment schedule and banking methods:

Month	Payment Date Range	Grant Amount	Payment Channel	Delay Possibility	Weekend Payments
May 2025	20–27 May 2025	R370	Bank Transfer	Low	No
June 2025	20–26 June 2025	R370	Bank/Shoprite	Medium	No
July 2025	22–29 July 2025	R370	Pick n Pay	Low	Yes (if early)
August 2025	20–25 August 2025	R370	Post Office	High	No
Sept 2025	21–28 Sept 2025	R370	Bank/Boxer	Medium	No
Oct 2025	20–26 Oct 2025	R370	Capitec/Mobile Pay	Low	Yes
Nov 2025	18–24 Nov 2025	R370	Retail Partners	Low	No
Dec 2025	15–22 Dec 2025	R370	Bank/Post Office	High	No

How to Apply for the UBIG Grant – Online and Walk-In Options

SASSA has ensured multiple access points for applications to make it easy and accessible for everyone. You can apply either online or at a local SASSA office.

Online Application Process:

• Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
• Click on the UBIG Application banner
• Enter your ID number, phone number, and bank account details
• Accept the declaration and consent terms
• Submit your application

Walk-In Application Option:

• Visit the nearest SASSA office
• Carry original ID document
• Submit a proof of unemployment (optional but helpful)
• Staff will assist you with the application

Applicants will receive SMS confirmation once the application is processed.

Common Issues & Verification Delays

With millions applying, delays and verification failures can happen. Below are the common problems and how to solve them:

Issue	Description	How to Resolve
ID Verification Failed	Mismatch in records	Visit Home Affairs for correction
Bank Account Not Verified	Wrong or inactive account details	Update via SASSA portal or visit nearest office
Means Test Failure	Detected income over limit	Contact SASSA with proof of unemployment
Duplicate Application	Submitted more than once	Only one application per ID allowed
No SMS Received	Application not submitted properly	Retry or visit office for manual check
Application Pending Too Long	High backlog during peak periods	Allow 2–3 weeks before raising a complaint
Payment Not Received	Delay in bank or Post Office disbursement	Check payment status on SASSA site

UBIG vs SRD Grant – Key Differences

Feature	SRD R350 Grant	UBIG Grant 2025
Amount	R350	R370
Duration	Temporary	Permanent (until further notice)
Eligibility Age	18–59	18–59
Means Test Threshold	R624	R624
Payment Methods	Bank, Retailers, Post Office	Same + Expanded Mobile Options
Application Method	Online only	Online + Walk-In
Verification Timeline	7–14 days	7–21 days

FAQs – New UBIG Grant

Q1: When will the UBIG grant payments start?
A: Payments for successful applicants will begin from 20 May 2025.

Q2: Can I still apply if I was getting the SRD grant before?
A: Yes, but you must submit a new application for UBIG.

Q3: Is the UBIG grant available for students?
A: Only if the student is unemployed and meets income and age criteria.

Q4: Will the UBIG grant be increased later?
A: Government has hinted at possible increases linked to inflation in 2026.

Q5: Can I collect the payment if I don’t have a bank account?
A: Yes, you can opt for retail partner collection or mobile money.

Q6: How often should I re-verify for this grant?
A: SASSA will conduct quarterly income checks. No need for reapplication unless instructed.

Q7: Where do I report issues or complaints?
A: Use the SASSA contact details below or visit your nearest office.

SASSA Departmental Contact Details for UBIG Grant

• Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.sassa.gov.za
• WhatsApp Support: 082 046 8553
• Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM

Conclusion about New UBIG Grant

The UBIG grant is a critical step toward building a more inclusive and stable financial safety net in South Africa. With streamlined applications, expanded eligibility, and improved payment systems, millions will now receive dependable monthly support. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible and to keep their details updated with SASSA to avoid delays.