SASSA Extends SRD Grant to 2028 as Basic Income Debate Intensifies

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant of R370 per month will be extended to March 2028, providing relief to approximately 8.5 million beneficiaries.

Budget Allocation

The extension will cost the fiscus an additional R54 billion over the two-year period. Godongwana said the government was "committed to protecting the most vulnerable" but cautioned that a permanent basic income guarantee would require a dedicated funding mechanism.

The Basic Income Debate

A parliamentary ad hoc committee studying the feasibility of converting the SRD into a permanent basic income estimated a grant of R624 per month — equal to the food poverty line — would cost R130 billion annually.

The committee identified possible funding mechanisms including a wealth tax, a higher corporate tax rate, and redirecting savings from SOE bailouts.

Civil Society Response

The Black Sash and Amandla.mobi welcomed the extension but called it "a half-measure in a crisis that demands bold action." They argued the R370 amount is inadequate and that the means-test excludes millions of deserving beneficiaries.