How Long Does SASSA take to Pay R350 into Bank Account in 2024?

If you’re one of the millions of South Africans relying on the SASSA SRD R350 grant, you may be wondering, “How long does it take for the money to reach my bank account?” Although this grant increased to R370 in April 2024, understanding payment timelines is essential for budgeting and managing your financial needs.

This guide breaks down the processing time, reasons for delays, and how to check your payment status.

How Long Does SASSA take to Pay R350 into Bank Account?

SASSA typically takes 2-3 business days to pay the R350 (increased to R370 in April 2024) grant into bank accounts after approval. Payment delays may occur due to incorrect banking details or verification issues. Beneficiaries can confirm deposits via USSD, WhatsApp, or ATMs. If payment remains pending beyond 5 working days, contact SASSA for assistance. Ensure your bank details are accurate to avoid delays.

What is the R350 (Now R370) Grant?

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is a monthly payment provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to assist unemployed citizens and others in financial distress. Initially set at R350, the grant was increased to R370 in April 2024 to better address the rising cost of living. Payments are made directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts or other payment methods of choice.

How Long Does It Take to Receive the R350 Grant After Approval?

Once your SASSA SRD grant application is approved, it typically takes 2-3 business days for the funds to reflect in your bank account. During this period, SASSA verifies your banking details, ensuring the provided account matches your personal information.

If everything checks out, the payment is processed and you will receive an SMS notification confirming the deposit. For first-time payments or if changes are made to your banking details, the process may take slightly longer due to additional validation.

What Are SASSA Payment Cycles?

SASSA follows monthly payment cycles for the SRD grant, announcing payment dates at the beginning of each cycle. For instance, if the cycle starts on the 3rd of a given month, beneficiaries can expect payments to begin reflecting in their accounts from that date onwards.

• Example: In September 2023, payments started on the 22nd, meaning most recipients could access their funds shortly after.

You can check the current SASSA SRD payment schedule on their official website or through their contact centers.

How to Check If the Payment is Deposited?

Once SASSA processes the payment, beneficiaries can confirm receipt using one of these three methods:

1. USSD Code

• Dial *120*3210# on your phone.
• Follow the prompts to view your payment status.

2. WhatsApp

• Send a message saying “SASSA” to 082 046 8553.
• Respond to the follow-up questions, and your updated payment balance will be shared.

3. ATM Balance Inquiry

• Visit any ATM using your SASSA card.
• Check your balance to verify if the funds are available.

These options ensure you can confirm payments conveniently without visiting a SASSA office. If you want to learn more you can read our separate guide on SASSA SRD Balance Check.

Why Are Payments Sometimes Delayed?

Although most payments are processed within 2-3 working days, there are times when delays occur. Common reasons include:

1. Incorrect Banking Details: If your account information (e.g., account number, branch code) is incorrect, payments may fail.
2. Failed EFT Transactions: Electronic fund transfers may occasionally experience issues, either on SASSA’s side or with the bank.
3. Technical Glitches: System downtimes or errors during payment processing can lead to delays.
4. Verification Issues: Delays in verifying your updated bank details or personal information can hold up payments.

If your payment status remains “pending” for more than 5 working days, contact SASSA to resolve the issue.

Steps to Resolve Delayed Payments

If your approved funds have not been credited within the expected timeframe, follow these steps:

1. Contact SASSA Helpline
   Call the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 and provide your details (e.g., ID number, application reference number).
2. Visit a SASSA Office
   Bring your ID and any documentation related to your application to your nearest SASSA office for assistance.
3. Double-Check Banking Details
   Log in to the SASSA SRD portal to confirm that your banking details are correct and up to date.
4. Be Patient
   Sometimes, delays are caused by high volumes of applications or unexpected system downtimes. Monitor your status for updates.

Tips for Managing Your SRD Grant Payments

1. Set Up a Budget
   Plan your monthly expenses based on the R370 grant amount. Prioritize essential needs like food and utilities.
2. Save Where Possible
   If you don’t use the full amount immediately, consider saving a portion for emergencies.
3. Stay Informed
   Regularly check SASSA’s official channels for updates on payment schedules or potential system issues.

Key Takeaways

• After your application is approved, SASSA typically processes payments within 2-3 working days.
• Payment cycles begin on scheduled dates each month, with funds deposited shortly thereafter.
• Delays can occur due to incorrect banking details, technical issues, or verification errors.
• Beneficiaries can check their payment status via USSD, WhatsApp, or ATMs.
• If delays persist, contact SASSA for assistance.

By understanding the payment process and knowing how to check your status, you can ensure timely access to your SRD grant funds.