Basic Income Support (BIS) Grant - What We Know So Far
The South African government has announced plans to replace the current Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant with a new, permanent Basic Income Support (BIS) grant. The transition is expected to happen after the current SRD grant extension ends on 31 March 2027. While many details are still being finalised, this page covers everything we know so far about the BIS grant.
Please Note
The information on this page is based on government announcements, policy papers, and budget speeches available as of March 2026. Many details of the BIS grant have not yet been officially confirmed and may change. We will update this page as new information becomes available.
What We Know - Key Facts
Expected Start
After 31 March 2027
Replaces
SRD R370 Grant
Expected Amount
Not yet confirmed (R370 - R760 range proposed)
Target Group
Unemployed adults 18 - 60 with no income
Nature
Permanent (not temporary)
Current SRD Recipients
Expected to be automatically migrated
Background: From SRD to BIS
The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant was introduced in May 2020 as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially set at R350 per month, it was meant to provide emergency relief to unemployed South Africans who had no other income. The grant was extended multiple times and increased to R370, with the current extension running until 31 March 2027.
Over time, it became clear that the economic hardship facing millions of South Africans was not a temporary problem. With unemployment consistently above 30%, the need for a permanent social protection measure became apparent. The government began developing plans for the BIS grant as a permanent replacement for the SRD.
The BIS grant represents a significant shift in South African social policy - from temporary emergency relief to a permanent social protection framework for working-age adults. This fills a gap that has existed in the social grant system, which previously only covered children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Expected Changes from SRD to BIS
While the final details are still being developed, several changes are expected as part of the transition from the SRD to BIS grant:
Permanent Status
Unlike the SRD, which has required repeated extensions, the BIS will be a permanent social grant enshrined in legislation. Recipients will not face the uncertainty of whether the grant will be renewed each year.
Potentially Higher Amount
There are proposals to increase the grant amount from the current R370 closer to the food poverty line (approximately R760). However, this depends on available fiscal resources and the final policy decision.
Revised Eligibility Criteria
The BIS may have updated eligibility criteria, potentially including adjusted income thresholds, different age requirements, or additional qualifying conditions. Current details suggest the target group will remain similar to the SRD.
Improved Application System
Government has indicated plans to improve the application and payment infrastructure, potentially moving to a more robust digital system with better identity verification and fraud prevention.
Integration with Employment Services
The BIS may include links to employment services, skills training, and job placement programmes, aimed at helping recipients transition into employment where possible.
Updated Payment Methods
The payment system may be updated to include more options and improve reliability. Digital payments and mobile money solutions are being explored as part of the transition.
How to Prepare for the BIS Transition
If you currently receive the SRD grant, there are several steps you should take now to prepare for the transition to the BIS grant:
Keep Your Details Updated
Make sure your cellphone number, banking details, and personal information are correct on the SRD portal. Visit srd.sassa.gov.za to review and update your details.
Complete Identity Verification
If SASSA requests eKYC identity verification, complete it promptly. The BIS system will likely require verified identity records for all recipients.
Maintain Your Current Grant
Continue to comply with all SRD grant requirements. Do not let your current grant lapse or be cancelled, as this could complicate the migration process.
Monitor Official Communications
Watch for SMS messages from SASSA, check the official SASSA website regularly, and follow trusted news sources for updates on the BIS transition timeline.
Avoid Scams
Be wary of anyone claiming they can sign you up for the BIS grant early or guarantee your place. The transition will be handled by SASSA through official channels only.
Save Important Documents
Keep your ID document, proof of residence, and any SASSA correspondence in a safe place. You may need these documents during the transition process.
Expected Timeline
2020 - 2024
SRD grant introduced and extended multiple times
2025
Government announces plans for BIS grant as permanent replacement
2026
Policy development, legislation drafting, and infrastructure planning
31 March 2027
Current SRD grant extension expires
April 2027 onwards
BIS grant expected to begin (exact date TBC)
What This Means for Current SRD Recipients
If you currently receive the SRD grant, the most important thing is to keep your grant active and your details up to date. Government has indicated that the transition should be seamless for existing recipients, but being proactive about your information reduces the risk of any disruptions.
The SRD grant will continue to be paid at R370 per month until 31 March 2027. After that date, the BIS grant is expected to take over. You should not stop receiving your SRD grant or cancel your application in anticipation of the BIS - continue as normal until SASSA provides specific transition instructions.
In Summary
Keep receiving your SRD grant, keep your details updated, complete any identity verification requested, and watch for official communications from SASSA about the BIS transition. We will update this page as new information becomes available.