UBIG Grant to Replace SRD – The South African government is officially transitioning from the SRD R350 grant to the new Universal Basic Income Guarantee (UBIG) Grant starting May 2025. This move aims to provide long-term, sustainable monthly financial support to millions of unemployed and low-income South Africans. As the SRD grant ends, the UBIG grant is being rolled out with new criteria, higher payment values, and a wider coverage base.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the UBIG Grant, how it differs from the SRD, payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
Why the UBIG Grant to Replace SRD
The SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant, launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, was always meant to be temporary. With rising unemployment and economic hardship, the government has now developed a more sustainable solution—the Universal Basic Income Guarantee (UBIG).
- The SRD grant ends officially on 30 April 2025
- The UBIG grant starts from 1 May 2025
- The goal is to offer permanent basic income support
- Payments under UBIG will be higher than the SRD’s R350
- The program will integrate digital verification and bank transfers
Also Read – New UBIG Grant Launches in May
Key Features of the New UBIG Grant in South Africa
The UBIG program introduces several changes compared to the SRD. Here are the core features:
- Monthly payout expected: R624 to R999 (final confirmation pending)
- Eligibility expanded to include low-income workers and informal traders
- Biometric verification for fraud prevention
- Payments will be made through bank accounts or mobile wallets
- The grant is non-taxable and will not affect other social grants
- Applicants must be 18–59 years old
- Proof of income below R1,500/month may be required
- Registration will be 100% online and SMS-based
UBIG vs SRD Grant – What’s Changing?
| Feature | SRD Grant | UBIG Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Amount | R350 | R624–R999 (expected) |
| Duration | Temporary (since 2020) | Permanent |
| Age Eligibility | 18–59 | 18–59 |
| Income Limit | Less than R624/month | Less than R1,500/month (tentative) |
| Application Mode | Online only | Online + SMS |
| Fraud Checks | Basic | Biometric + Income Checks |
| Payment Method | Bank Account | Bank / Mobile Wallet / Post Office |
| Starting Date | May 2020 | May 2025 |
Also Read – SASSA New UBI Grant Begins May 15
Eligibility Criteria for the UBIG Grant
To qualify for the UBIG grant, beneficiaries must meet the following:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Reside within South Africa
- Be unemployed or earning below the income threshold
- Be aged between 18 and 59 years
- Not receive other unemployment insurance or NSFAS
- Not be a taxpayer earning above R1,500/month
UBIG Grant Application Process – Step-by-Step
- Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “UBIG Grant Application” tab
- Enter your ID number and mobile number
- Complete income declaration and biometric verification
- Submit bank details or mobile wallet information
- Wait for SMS confirmation with your status
Alternative Method:
- Dial 1347737# from any mobile phone
- Follow prompts to apply via SMS (no data required)
Documents Required:
- South African ID
- Proof of income or bank statement
- Mobile number linked to your ID
- Proof of residence (if requested)
UBIG Payment Schedule for 2025
| Month | Application Window | Payment Processing | Expected Payout Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| May | 1–15 May 2025 | 16–20 May 2025 | 22 May 2025 |
| June | 1–10 June 2025 | 11–15 June 2025 | 18 June 2025 |
| July | 1–15 July 2025 | 16–19 July 2025 | 22 July 2025 |
| August | 1–12 August 2025 | 13–18 August 2025 | 20 August 2025 |
| September | 1–10 September 2025 | 11–14 September 2025 | 16 September 2025 |
FAQs – UBIG Grant to Replace SRD
Q1: Can I get UBIG if I already receive child support or old age grant?
A: Yes, the UBIG is independent of other social grants.
Q2: What happens if my application is rejected?
A: You can appeal the decision via the SASSA website or call centre.
Q3: Is biometric verification mandatory?
A: Yes, to prevent fraud and impersonation, facial or fingerprint verification is required.
Q4: Can I receive UBIG if I work part-time?
A: Yes, if your income is below the R1,500/month threshold.
Q5: Will UBIG payments go directly into my bank?
A: Yes. Alternatively, you may opt for a mobile wallet or Post Office collection.
