How to apply for R350 grant on WhatsApp?

Bybursariesafrica

The South African Social Security Agency offers the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant to qualifying South Africans who are experiencing financial challenges.

This grant provides temporary financial support to those who are unemployed, or who do not earn enough to meet their basic needs.

While the traditional application method involves the SASSA website, there’s a convenient alternative of applying via WhatsApp. 

How to Apply for the R350 Grant on WhatsApp

To apply for the R350 grant through WhatsApp, you must follow these steps:

  1. Add the SASSA WhatsApp Number: The first step is to save the SASSA WhatsApp number, 082 046 8553, as a contact on your phone.
  2. Initiate the Chat: Open WhatsApp and go to your newly added SASSA contact. Send a simple message like “Hi” or “Hello” to initiate the chat.
  3. Requesting Help: SASSA will respond with a welcome message and a menu of options. To proceed with the grant application, reply with “Help.”
  4. Selecting the Application Option: You’ll receive a list of available services. Choose option “4” for “Unathi SASSA Platform.”
  5. Specifying Your Application: Within the Unathi SASSA platform, respond with “SRD” to indicate you’re applying for the Social Relief of Distress grant.
  6. Applying for Yourself or Someone Else: The platform will ask if you’re applying for yourself or someone else. Choose the appropriate option (“1” for yourself or “2” for someone else).
  7. Providing Your Information: Here, you’ll be prompted to enter your South African ID number. Ensure you enter the number accurately to avoid delays.
  8. Following Up: Once you submit your ID number, SASSA will send you further instructions via WhatsApp. These instructions might include additional information you need to provide or an update on the status of your application.

Is applying for the R350 grant on WhatsApp the only method?

No, applying for the R350 grant on WhatsApp is an alternative option.

You can also submit your application online through the SASSA website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/.

What documents do I need to submit when applying for the R350 grant on WhatsApp?

Currently, you don’t need to upload any documents during the WhatsApp application process.

However, SASSA might request additional information for verification purposes.

Be prepared to provide any required documentation when prompted.

How long does it take to process the R350 grant application on WhatsApp?

Processing times can vary depending on application volume and verification procedures.

However, SASSA aims to finalize applications within a few weeks.

You’ll receive updates on the status of your application through WhatsApp.

Who qualifies for the R350 grant?

The R350 grant is intended for South African citizens or permanent residents aged 18-59 who are unemployed, seeking employment, and do not receive any other social security grants.

You can find the full eligibility criteria on the SASSA website.

How will I receive my R350 grant payment if approved?

If your application is successful, SASSA will contact you to confirm your preferred payment method.

Your options usually include direct bank deposit, payment through the South African Post Office (SAPO), or mobile money transfers.

What happens if my R350 grant application is declined?

If your application is unsuccessful, SASSA will notify you via WhatsApp and may provide details on the reason for rejection.

You can then consider appealing the decision by following the instructions outlined in the notification message.

Can I check the status of my application on WhatsApp?

While the initial application might not provide real-time status updates, SASSA might send follow-up messages with updates on the progress.

You can also contact SASSA directly through their official channels for application status inquiries.