Alternative Ways to Apply for the SASSA SRD R370 Grant
What to do if you cannot apply through the usual online process
The verified current route for a new SASSA SRD R370 application is the official SRD website. SASSA has used WhatsApp, USSD, email, GovChat and other digital channels during earlier phases of the grant, but not every old application method should still be treated as a working R370 application channel today.
The safest current way to submit a new SRD R370 application is through srd.sassa.gov.za. If you cannot use the website, contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 or use the official SRD WhatsApp number 082 046 8553 for assistance. People who struggle with technology can also seek help from SASSA. Do not automatically rely on old USSD, email, GovChat or Facebook Messenger application instructions because those channels come from earlier versions of the SRD programme.
The current official SRD platform states that application information is provided electronically. For a new application, SASSA’s more recent instructions direct applicants to the official SRD website, select their applicant category and follow the prompts.
SRD Application Methods at a Glance
The clearest currently verified route for starting a new SRD R370 application.
People who struggle with digital access can seek SASSA assistance rather than using an unofficial application agent.
082 046 8553 remains an official SRD contact. Use the live menu for whatever services are currently offered.
Call 0800 60 10 11 if you cannot complete the current electronic application or need help accessing it.
SASSA offices can assist beneficiaries with digital verification, and applicants who cannot use technology can ask SASSA what assistance is currently available.
The current SRD platform refers to an applicant or their proxy providing the information required for consideration.
This was an official SRD application channel in earlier phases. Do not assume it is still the current R370 application route.
SRD email applications were used during earlier phases of the programme. Current new-application guidance points to the SRD website.
GovChat was announced as an additional SRD channel in 2021. It should not be treated as a verified current R370 application method.
Facebook Messenger was also announced as an application option in an earlier phase of the grant.
Method 1: Apply Through the Official SRD Website
For a new application, this should be your first choice. SASSA’s current SRD portal is designed specifically for the R370 programme.
Go to srd.sassa.gov.za. Check the address carefully before entering your ID number or cellphone information.
South African ID holders should select the South African ID section. Asylum seekers and qualifying special permit holders should use the separate option provided on the portal.
Follow the current prompts displayed for a new SRD application.
Use a number you control and can continue to access. SASSA uses the number for application communication and verification.
Read and accept the current conditions required for SASSA to verify your application information.
Complete the identity and applicant details requested by the current system.
Answer the employment and lifestyle sustainability questions accurately.
If you use a bank account for payment, make sure it belongs to the applicant.
Finish the process and keep any application information or confirmation provided by SASSA.
Method 2: Get Help With the Electronic Application
Not everyone has reliable internet, a smartphone or confidence using an online application. That does not mean you should pay an unofficial person to create an application for you.
Government guidance for the SRD programme has recognised assisted electronic applications for people who cannot use technology on their own.
How assisted application should work
- Use SASSA staff or another legitimate assistance channel.
- Keep control of your own ID information.
- Use your own cellphone number wherever possible.
- Use your own banking details.
- Read or have the declaration and consent explained to you.
- Make sure the information entered is truthful.
- Keep your application confirmation or AppID where provided.
The application must remain connected to the real applicant. Using somebody else’s contact or banking information can create verification, payment and fraud problems.
Method 3: Use SASSA WhatsApp for SRD Help
This number continues to be listed by government as an official SASSA SRD contact channel.
WhatsApp has also been used as an SRD application channel during earlier phases of the programme. However, the clearest recent instruction for a new current SRD application is to use srd.sassa.gov.za.
How to use WhatsApp safely
Make sure you use the official SRD WhatsApp number.
Start the conversation with the saved SASSA SRD contact.
The WhatsApp menu can change. Follow the current official prompts rather than an old screenshot from a blog or social-media post.
If the live SASSA WhatsApp service offers a new-application function, follow that official menu. If it does not, use it to obtain help and then apply through the SRD website.
WhatsApp was an official application route in earlier SRD periods, but menus and digital services change. The current menu shown by SASSA is more reliable than instructions copied from an older article.
Method 4: Call SASSA If You Cannot Apply Online
If you cannot use the website or need help understanding the current application route, contact SASSA.
What to ask when you call
Explain clearly why you cannot complete the SRD application. For example:
- You do not have a smartphone.
- You have no mobile data.
- The official website will not accept your application details.
- You need help identifying the correct applicant category.
- You cannot complete identity verification.
- You suspect that someone has already used your ID.
- You have accessibility difficulties using the online system.
Make sure the electronic application itself has been successfully submitted. Do not assume that calling SASSA automatically creates an SRD application unless the official service explicitly confirms that it has done so.
Method 5: Ask a SASSA Office for Digital Assistance
The SRD R370 programme is primarily electronic, but SASSA offices can assist beneficiaries with digital access and verification problems.
In January 2026, SASSA confirmed that R370 beneficiaries who do not have data, a smartphone or a laptop can visit local offices for help with biometric identity verification.
SASSA stated that offices can provide assistance using:
- Kiosks.
- Official laptops.
- Guest Wi-Fi.
- SASSA staff assistance.
Can you simply submit a paper SRD R370 form at an office?
Do not assume so. The current SRD programme is electronic, and the current official SRD website says applicant information is provided electronically.
If you cannot complete the online application, visit or contact SASSA and ask what assisted electronic option is available for your situation.
Ordinary emergency Social Relief of Distress can involve a SASSA office application and supporting documents. The separate SRD R370 programme uses its own electronic system.
See Social Relief of Distress for the difference between these two forms of assistance.
Method 6: Can Someone Help or Apply as Your Proxy?
The current official SRD platform states that applicants or their proxy will need to confirm or provide the information required for SASSA to consider the application.
That means an applicant who genuinely needs help can receive assistance with the electronic process.
Information still needs to relate to the real applicant
The process can require:
- Acceptance of the declaration and consent.
- Personal details.
- Mobile number.
- Employment information.
- Lifestyle sustainability information.
- Banking information.
Use your own cellphone and banking information where required. SASSA verifies identity and bank-account ownership, so replacing your details with the helper’s information can prevent successful payment.
How to Apply If You Have No Mobile Data
The lack of mobile data is a genuine problem for many applicants. The safest solution is not to use an outdated USSD code without first checking whether SASSA still supports it.
Current options to try
- Use Wi-Fi that you trust to open the official SRD website.
- Ask a trusted person to let you use their internet connection while you keep control of your own application.
- Contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 for assistance.
- Ask your local SASSA office whether digital application assistance is available.
- If SASSA requests biometric verification, local offices can assist beneficiaries who do not have data.
If you use somebody else’s phone or computer, log out when finished and do not save your ID, passwords, PINs or banking credentials on the device.
How to Apply If You Do Not Have a Smartphone
You do not necessarily need to own an expensive smartphone to qualify for SRD assistance. The problem is gaining secure access to the electronic application.
Possible ways to get help include:
- Using a trusted family member’s device while entering your own information.
- Using a computer with internet access.
- Calling SASSA for current assisted-application instructions.
- Seeking assistance through a SASSA service point or outreach programme where available.
If a later biometric verification requires a smartphone or laptop, SASSA confirmed in 2026 that local offices can assist affected R370 beneficiaries.
Can You Still Apply for SRD R370 Using USSD?
The USSD code *134*7737# was an official SASSA SRD application method during earlier phases of the programme. It was publicly listed alongside the website and WhatsApp.
That does not mean it should be advertised as a guaranteed current R370 application channel now.
More recent SASSA instructions for new SRD applications specifically direct people to srd.sassa.gov.za. Unless SASSA’s current official channels tell you to use the old USSD code, treat it as a historical method.
Can You Apply for SRD by Email?
Email was also used as an application method during the early COVID-19 SRD programme. Historical government guidance included [email protected].
Current new-application guidance directs applicants to the official SRD website. Do not send copies of your ID or bank statement to an email address simply because an old article says email applications were accepted years ago.
What Happened to GovChat SRD Applications?
GovChat was announced by government as an additional SRD application channel in 2021.
It was part of an earlier digital-access expansion and should not be treated as a verified current R370 application route unless SASSA again officially directs applicants to it.
For a current new application, use srd.sassa.gov.za.
Can You Apply Through Facebook Messenger?
Facebook Messenger was also announced as an SRD application option in 2021.
That historical announcement does not establish Facebook Messenger as a current application route.
Fake social-media accounts can copy logos and government photographs. Use the current official SRD website for a new application.
What About a SASSA Mobile App?
In July 2026, the Department of Social Development announced a broader modernisation programme that includes expanding digital service channels and enhanced WhatsApp and MobileAPP platforms for grant applications.
This is important for future access, but it should not be interpreted as proof that every SRD R370 applicant can already replace the official SRD website with any app found in an app store.
The current official new-application instruction remains srd.sassa.gov.za.
Check that SASSA or the Department of Social Development officially identifies the app before entering personal, identity or banking information.
Do Alternative Application Methods Require Documents?
The current official SRD platform states that application information is provided electronically and that there is no need to upload documentation during the normal process.
Applicants or their proxy provide information including:
- Declaration and consent confirmation.
- Personal details.
- Mobile number.
- Employment information.
- Lifestyle sustainability information.
- Banking information.
Do not upload an ID copy, selfie, bank statement or card photograph to an unknown site simply to “register for R370”.
Which Applicant Route Should You Choose?
| Your situation | Best current option | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| You have internet access | Apply directly at srd.sassa.gov.za. | Third-party application websites. |
| You have WhatsApp but struggle with the website | Use official SRD WhatsApp 082 046 8553 for current help and follow the live menu. | Old screenshots with fixed menu numbers. |
| You have no mobile data | Call SASSA or seek legitimate assisted digital access. | Assuming an old USSD code is still active. |
| You have no smartphone | Use a trusted device or ask SASSA for assisted digital access. | Paying an unofficial agent. |
| You need biometric verification | Use the official verification or seek help from a SASSA office if you lack a device or data. | Ignoring the verification request. |
| You cannot complete the application yourself | Seek legitimate help and keep the application linked to your own identity, phone and payment details. | Allowing the helper to replace your information with theirs. |
| You found the old USSD code | Verify current instructions through SASSA and use the website. | Treating a 2020 or 2021 instruction as automatically current. |
| You found [email protected] in an old article | Use the current application website. | Emailing sensitive documents unnecessarily. |
| You found a GovChat or Facebook application guide | Use srd.sassa.gov.za unless SASSA currently announces otherwise. | Submitting personal details through an outdated or fake service. |
Should You Apply Through More Than One Method?
No. Submitting the same application through several channels does not make SASSA approve it faster.
Historical SASSA instructions specifically told applicants to use only one application channel rather than submitting multiple applications. The same principle remains sensible for the current electronic application.
If you already have an active SRD application, do not start over through WhatsApp, USSD, email or another channel because a monthly result is taking time.
Do not reapply because:
- Your status is pending.
- An approved payment is late.
- Your bank details changed.
- Your cellphone number changed.
- One month was declined.
- Your identity verification is outstanding.
Those problems have their own correction, payment or appeal processes.
What to Do After You Apply
After a successful application, do not keep submitting new forms. Check the existing application instead.
SASSA uses the application number for communication and verification.
Return to the official SRD website to see the result for the relevant month.
Ignoring legitimate verification can prevent an otherwise eligible application from being paid.
An account supplied for payment should belong to the applicant.
If you disagree with a declined month, use the separate ITSAA appeal process rather than applying again.
See How to Check Your SASSA Grant Status for the status-check process.
Current Methods vs Old SRD Application Methods
| Method | Was it officially used? | Current position |
|---|---|---|
| srd.sassa.gov.za | Yes | Current verified new-application route. |
| WhatsApp 082 046 8553 | Yes | Still an official SRD contact channel. Follow the live menu for services currently available. Use the website for a clearly verified new application. |
| Assistance from SASSA | Yes | Appropriate where an applicant cannot use the electronic service without help. |
| Proxy assistance | Current site refers to applicant or proxy | A helper can assist, but applicant identity, contact and payment information must remain accurate. |
| *134*7737# USSD | Yes, historically | Do not present as a guaranteed current application channel. |
| SRD email application | Yes, historically | Old method. Current new applications are directed to the website. |
| GovChat | Yes, historically | Announced in 2021, not a verified current R370 application route. |
| Facebook Messenger | Yes, historically | Announced in 2021, not a verified current R370 application route. |
| Random third-party websites | No | Avoid. They are not a substitute for the official SASSA application. |
How to Avoid Fake Alternative Application Methods
An alternative method is not legitimate simply because it uses the SASSA name, logo or green colours.
Avoid a service if it:
- Charges a fee to submit the R370 application.
- Promises guaranteed approval.
- Asks for your banking PIN.
- Asks for your card PIN or CVV.
- Requests your online banking password.
- Asks you to forward an OTP to a stranger.
- Wants to replace your cellphone number with an agent’s number.
- Wants to use the agent’s bank account for your payment.
- Uses a website that is made to look like SASSA but is not on an official government domain.
Useful SRD R370 Guides
Follow the complete official online application process from start to submission.
Check how the official WhatsApp channel should be used and avoid outdated menu instructions.
Check the existing application rather than submitting it again.
Change the payment account without creating another application.
Update the contact number attached to an existing SRD application.
Understand why a monthly application was rejected.
Appeal a monthly decline rather than submitting another application.
Fix verification, payment, banking and application-access problems.
Alternative SRD Application Questions
What is the best way to apply for the SASSA SRD R370 Grant?
The clearest currently verified method is the official SRD website at srd.sassa.gov.za. Choose the applicant category that applies to you and follow the current application prompts.
What are the alternative ways to apply for SRD R370?
Applicants who cannot complete the website process can seek assistance from SASSA, use the official SRD WhatsApp channel for current help or obtain legitimate assistance with the electronic application. Older methods such as USSD, email, GovChat and Facebook Messenger should not be assumed to remain active application routes.
Can I apply for SASSA R370 using WhatsApp?
WhatsApp 082 046 8553 remains an official SASSA SRD contact channel and was used as an application channel during earlier phases of the programme. For a current new application, the clearly verified route is srd.sassa.gov.za. If the live official WhatsApp menu offers an application service, follow the menu currently displayed by SASSA.
What is the official SASSA SRD WhatsApp number?
The current official SRD WhatsApp contact number is 082 046 8553.
Can I still apply using *134*7737#?
The USSD code *134*7737# was an official application route during earlier phases of the SRD programme. More recent new-application instructions direct applicants to srd.sassa.gov.za, so the old USSD code should not be treated as a guaranteed current application method.
Can I apply for SRD by email?
Email applications were used during earlier stages of the COVID-19 SRD programme. Current new-application instructions direct applicants to the official SRD website, so do not rely on an old email application guide.
Can I apply through GovChat?
GovChat was announced as an additional SRD application channel in 2021. It is not the current verified new-application route. Use srd.sassa.gov.za unless SASSA publishes a new instruction directing applicants to GovChat.
Can I apply through Facebook Messenger?
Facebook Messenger was also announced as an SRD application option in 2021. It should not be treated as a current application route unless SASSA officially reintroduces it.
Can I apply at a SASSA office?
The SRD R370 process is electronic. If you cannot use the online system, contact or visit SASSA to ask for assisted digital access. SASSA offices also assist R370 beneficiaries with biometric verification where they lack suitable devices or data.
Can someone help me apply for SRD R370?
Yes. The current official SRD information refers to applicants or their proxy providing the required application information. A helper should assist with the process while keeping the application linked to the real applicant’s identity, cellphone and payment information.
Can someone use their phone to help me apply?
A trusted person can help you access the electronic service, but use a cellphone number you control for the actual SRD application wherever possible. SASSA uses the registered number for communication, verification and application access.
Can I apply if I have no mobile data?
Yes, lack of data does not itself determine eligibility. Seek legitimate internet access, contact SASSA for assistance or ask a SASSA office what assisted digital services are available. Do not rely on an outdated USSD code without current confirmation.
Can I apply if I do not own a smartphone?
Yes. You can seek legitimate assistance using another secure device or contact SASSA for help with the electronic process. Keep control of your identity, cellphone and banking information.
Does SASSA have a mobile app for SRD applications?
The Department of Social Development announced in July 2026 that its digital modernisation programme includes enhanced WhatsApp and MobileAPP platforms for grant applications. For the SRD R370 grant, the currently verified new-application instruction remains srd.sassa.gov.za unless SASSA specifically publishes another route.
Do I need to upload documents for the SRD application?
The current official SRD platform states that application information is provided electronically and that documents do not normally need to be uploaded during the standard application process.
Should I apply through several methods to improve my chances?
No. Multiple applications do not improve eligibility or speed up the decision. Submit one accurate application and then check the existing application status.
Should I apply again if my SRD status is pending?
No. Pending means the existing monthly application has not yet received a final decision. Check that application and complete any legitimate verification request.
Should I apply again if my bank account changed?
No. Update the banking details on the existing SRD application rather than submitting another grant application.
Should I apply again if my cellphone number changed?
No. Use the official SRD contact or cellphone update service instead of creating another application solely because the number changed.
Should I apply again after a declined month?
Not simply because a month was declined. If you disagree with the monthly decision, appeal that month through the official SRD appeal process.
Is there a fee to apply for SASSA SRD R370?
No. You should not pay an agent, website or social-media account to submit an SRD R370 application.
Need Help Applying for SRD R370?
Cannot use the normal online application?
Start by contacting SASSA rather than giving your information to an unofficial application service. Explain whether you lack internet, do not have a smartphone, need help with verification or cannot access the official SRD application.
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