SASSA SRD R370 means test: the income limit explained
The SASSA SRD R370 means test decides whether you qualify for the grant in a given month. The income threshold is based on the national food poverty line, which is updated by Statistics South Africa from time to time. Confirm the current threshold on the SRD portal before applying.
What SASSA checks
Each month, SASSA runs automated checks against records held by:
- The South African Revenue Service for taxable income
- The Unemployment Insurance Fund
- The National Student Financial Aid Scheme
- The Department of Home Affairs for identity verification
- Bank account data for inbound deposits
If any single source shows monthly income above the threshold, the application is automatically declined for that month.
Why qualifying applicants are sometimes declined
The bank-account check is the most common reason for unexpected declines. A once-off transfer from a family member, a refund, an e-wallet cash-in or a stokvel payout can push your account above the threshold and cause SASSA’s system to flag you as having income.
What to do if you believe a decline was wrong
Submit a reconsideration through the SRD portal. Explain each deposit in writing and, where possible, attach an affidavit from the person who sent the money confirming it was not income. For full official guidance, visit srd.sassa.gov.za or call 0800 60 10 11.
See also: SRD R370 reconsideration and the SRD appeal guide.
