R370 SRD Grant Extended to 2026 as Government Moves Towards Basic Income Support

In a pivotal announcement during the 2025/26 Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed the extension of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for another year—until March 2026. This move underscores government’s commitment to providing a safety net for millions of unemployed South Africans.

A total of R35.2 billion has been allocated to fund the SRD grant extension, which will continue in its current form throughout the next financial year. More significantly, Minister Godongwana revealed that the SRD grant will now serve as a foundation for the development of a long-term, sustainable form of income support for the unemployed, potentially paving the way for a Basic Income Support system in South Africa.

“The SRD is not just a short-term solution—it is becoming a bridge to a more permanent intervention for income support,” Godongwana said.

The SRD grant has become a vital form of relief for millions of people since its introduction during the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement brings hope to many South Africans who depend on this support to survive in a difficult economic climate.

Alongside the SRD, the government has allocated a total of R284.7 billion to social grants in the 2025/26 financial year. This includes:

• An increase of R130 in Old Age and Disability Grants, raising them to R2,315 per month from April 2025.
• An increase of R30 in the Child Support Grant, bringing it to R560 per month.
• A R70 increase in the Foster Care Grant.

According to the minister, nearly 28 million South Africans are expected to benefit from these social grants in the coming year.

This marks a clear signal from the government that social protection remains a top priority in addressing poverty and unemployment in the country.