The South African government officially announces the rollout of Universal Basic Income (UBI) of R1,200 per month, starting August 2025. The pervious SRA Grant of UBI is over in July 2025, as per new settlement the grant amount is increase from R350/month to R1,200/month. Check out what’s new in this SRA Grants, new eligibility requirements, amount & benefits update, dates of R1,200 UBI Amount transfer, how it will impact, etc. updates from below.
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Government Announces R1,200 Universal Basic Income from August
July 2025 New Update, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) confirms UBI Grant of R350 will end in July 2025 and the new Universal Basic Income (UBI) of R1,200 per month will start from August 2025. This new grant will provide broader and more stable financial support to eligible adults aged 18 to 59 with little or no income. The temporary SRD, the UBI is design to a long-term solution to fight poverty, boost livelihoods, and bring dignity to millions. One can apply online for SRA Grants August 2025 through SASSA channels, marking a major shift in the country’s social welfare system.
R1,200 UBI Grant Details 2025
| Update On | New SRD R1,200 UBI Grant 2025 |
| Reform By | Social Relief of Distress (SRD) |
| Grant Name | Universal Basic Income (UBI) |
| Application Mode | Online, WhatsApp, SASSA Offices |
| Launch Date | 1st August 2025 |
| Duration | Indefinite (until new notice) |
| Amount | R1,200 per month |
| Eligibility | Adults 18 to 59 with low or no income |
| Payment Method | Bank transfer or cash withdrawal points |
| Replacement For SRD? | Yes, SRD recipients will upgrade |
What’s New R1,200 Grant?
The newly announce R1,200 monthly grant represents a reform of UBI, a system where the government provides a fixed amount of money to eligible citizens regularly, regardless of employment status. The aim is to ensure financial security, reduce dependency, and improve living standards, especially for unemployed or underemployed adults.
| Previous SRD Grant | New UBI Grant From August 2025 |
| R350/month | R1,200/month |
| Limited duration | Indefinite (until new reforms) |
| Unemployed only | Broader eligibility criteria |
| COVID-19 relief origin | Permanent social support scheme |
Why the Change?
The government identify that millions of South Africans continue to live below the poverty line despite short-term financial relief like SRD. The jump from R350 to R1,200 addresses long-standing calls by civil society and economists for a more sustainable, living-level grant. Key Reasons for the Upgrade are –
- High unemployment rates, especially among youth
- Increased cost of living and inflationary pressures
- A shift toward a rights-based approach to social protection
- Positive pilot program results in 2024-25 across several provinces
Who Qualifies For R1,200 Grant?
The Department of Social Development (DSD) has released a preliminary list of eligibility criteria for the new UBI-style grant –
| Criteria | Requirements |
| Age Limit | South Africans aged 18–59 years |
| Employment Status | Unemployed or earning less than R1,500/month |
| Means Test | Monthly income should fall below threshold |
| Residency | Only legal resident or citizen |
| Banking Requirement | Must have a valid South African bank account |
| Existing Grant | Recipients SRD Grant holders will be auto-upgraded |
Note – Individuals already receiving child support, old-age pensions, or disability grants may not be eligible for this new grant simultaneously.
Universal Basic Income Payment Start Date & Schedule
The R1,200 payments will begin from 1st August 2025 and will follow a monthly schedule just like other SASSA grants.
| Month | Payment Date |
| August | 1 – 3 August |
| September | 3 – 5 September |
| October | 1 – 3 October (Continues monthly…) |
Payment will credited directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts or through retail cash points for those without access to banking services.
How to Apply For Universal Basic Income Grant?
The application process for the R1,200 monthly grant is simple and digital-first. Here’s a step-by-step guide –
Application Methods
- Online via SASSA Website
- Fill out the application form with your ID and bank details
- WhatsApp Registration
- Send “UBI” to the official SASSA WhatsApp number
- Post Office or SASSA Local Office
- Manual submission for those without digital access
Documents Required
- South African ID or Smart Card
- Proof of address (if available)
- Bank account or mobile wallet info
- Income declaration (if self-employed)
Impact on Economy & Society
Many experts view the R1,200 UBI grant as a transformational shift in South Africa’s approach to social assistance. Here’s how it’s expected to help –
| Benefits For Individuals | National Impact |
| Stable monthly income for essentials like food, transport, and housingImproved mental health and quality of lifeEncourages job-seeking and entrepreneurship | Boost to the informal economyIncreased consumer spendingReduces economic inequalityImproved social stability |
Challenges & Concerns
While widely welcomed, the new grant scheme isn’t without its debates. Critics are raising concerns about its fiscal sustainability and the possibility of dependency culture. Key Concerns –
- Can South Africa afford it long-term?
- Will it reduce motivation to seek work?
- Will it cause delays in other grant payments?
The government, however, has reassured that new revenue models, including better tax compliance and cuts to inefficient subsidies, will fund this initiative.
Expert Opinions
Prof. Mandla Mokoena, Social Policy Analyst – “This R1,200 grant isn’t just financial aid, it’s a structural change that brings South Africa in line with progressive welfare models globally.”
Lindiwe Ntuli, Youth Unemployment Activist – “For young people who are educated but jobless, this grant brings dignity and breathing room.”
Final Words
South Africa’s upcoming R1,200 Universal Basic Income Grant signals a bold move toward inclusive development and financial dignity. Aims at reducing poverty and boosting local economies, this monthly support offers a stable income base for millions. With the August 2025 launch nearing, eligible individuals should review their SRD records, prepare documents, and apply on time.