The South African government provides a variety of social grants to help citizens struggling with financial crisis. One of the important assistance programs is the R1370 Grant, which aims to help low-income individuals meet their necessary expenses by providing them with financial assistance. Recently, some changes have been made in the eligibility rules and application process of this grant, so that needy people can easily apply and take advantage of it. In this article, we will give you the application process, new rules and all the important information related to the R1370 grant.
What is the R1370 Grant?
The R1370 Grant is a financial assistance scheme of the Government of South Africa, which provides temporary relief to unemployed persons, those living below the poverty line, and other eligible beneficiaries. This scheme is operated by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), which ensures that this assistance reaches the right needy.
Eligibility for R1370 Grant
Recently the eligibility rules have been changed so that this assistance reaches the right people. Below are some of the key eligibility criteria:
- Citizenship and residency:
- The applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee legally residing in the country.
- Age limit:
- The applicant must be at least 18 years of age or older.
- Unemployment status:
- The applicant must be unemployed and seeking employment.
- Income limit:
- The applicant’s income must be below the limit set by SASSA.
- Do not receive other social grants:
- Individuals who are already availing of any other government grant (such as old age pension or disability grant) will not be eligible for this grant.
- Do not receive other financial assistance:
- Individuals who are receiving regular financial assistance from family or any other source will also not be considered eligible for this scheme.
- Bank account mandatory:
- The applicant must have an active bank account so that the amount can be deposited directly into it.
- Identity Verification:
- Applicants must have a valid South African ID or refugee/asylum certificate.
Application Process for R1370 Grant
SASSA has simplified the application process so that eligible citizens can apply without any hassle. Follow the following steps to apply
Step 1: Prepare the required documents
Have these documents ready before you start applying:
- Valid South African ID or refugee/asylum certificate
- Residence certificate
- Bank account statements
- Unemployment declaration or affidavit
- Other documents requested by SASSA (if applicable)
Step 2: Choose the application method
Applicants can submit their application through the following channels:
- Online application: Visit the official SASSA website and fill out the online application form.
- In-person application: Visit your nearest SASSA office and submit documents.
- WhatsApp application: Some grants have a dedicated SASSA WhatsApp number.
- USSD code application: Follow the instructions by dialing SASSA’s designated USSD code.
Step 3: Fill out the application form
Whether applying online or in person, it is extremely important to fill out the application form with correct and accurate information. Providing incorrect or incomplete information may result in your application being rejected.
Step 4: Submit the application
- After filling out the form, attach all the required documents and submit the application.
- You will receive a confirmation message for online applications.
- Be sure to get a receipt for in-person applications.
Step 5: Application review and verification
SASSA will review your application and verify the information and documents you have provided. This may take a few weeks.
Step 6: Approval or rejection notification
You will receive information on the status of your application through the following means:
- SMS notification
Letter to your registered address
If your application is approved, payments will begin as per the set timetable. If rejected, you can appeal within the set timeframe.
Payment Process and Ways to Receive Funds
If your application is approved, you can receive the amount of R1370 through the following means:
- Direct Bank Deposit: The amount will be deposited directly into your bank account.
- SASSA Pay Points: Those who do not have a bank account can visit SASSA Pay Points to receive the amount.
- Retail Outlets: Large retail stores such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Boxer also help with grant payments.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
Sometimes applications can be rejected for the following reasons:
- Incomplete or incorrect information
- Being above the income limit
- Providing incorrect documents
- Receiving other government grants
Not making efforts to find employment
If you think your application has been rejected unfairly, you can appeal to SASSA.
Recent changes to the R1370 grant
The South African government has made some changes to the eligibility rules to make this grant accessible to more people:
- Income limit changes: Income limits have been revised to accommodate more applicants.
- Faster process: Steps have been taken to speed up application review.
- Digital verification: Technical improvements have been made to identity verification to prevent fraud.
- Inclusion of additional beneficiaries: Temporary and informal workers can now also apply.
Conclusion
The R1370 grant is an important support scheme for people in economic distress in South Africa. Changes to eligibility rules and improvements to the application process have allowed more people to take advantage of this scheme.
You can also benefit from this grant by submitting the right documents and applying on time.
FAQs
Q1. Am I eligible for the R1370 grant?
A1. You must be a South African citizen, unemployed, and within the income limits.
Q2. How long does it take for the application to be approved?
A2. The application review can take a few weeks. You can check the status of the application from SASSA’s website or helpline.
Q3. Can I receive the R1370 grant with another grant I already received?
A3. No, if you are receiving another government grant, you will not be eligible for the R1370 grant.
Q4. What to do if the application is rejected?
A4. You can ask for a re-review of your application by appealing to SASSA.
Q5. How will I receive the grant amount?
A5. The amount will be deposited directly into your bank account or you can also collect the amount from SASSA Pay Points and retail stores like Shoprite.