SASSA Ends Universal Basic Income Grant in October 2025. In October 2025, SASSA officially ended the Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) in South Africa. This change affects many citizens who relied on monthly payments for daily needs. The government is now introducing new support programs with updated rules, payment methods, and eligibility criteria. This article explains everything you need to know about the end of UBIG and the transition to new grants.
Why Did SASSA End the Universal Basic Income Grant?
The UBIG program, which provided R350 per month to unemployed South Africans during COVID-19, was initially meant as temporary support. Over time, the program extended multiple times but created financial challenges for the country. The main reasons for ending UBIG include:
- South Africa faced high national debt and tight finances.
- The government wanted to focus on helping specific groups rather than everyone.
- There were fraud and misuse issues in the system.
- Officials encouraged recipients to seek employment instead of relying solely on grants.
- UBIG was never intended as a permanent solution; transitioning to targeted support ensures long-term stability for both citizens and the government.
New SASSA Support Programs
After UBIG ended, SASSA introduced four main types of assistance to replace the universal grant. These programs are designed to target people most in need:
1. Expanded Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant
- Age Requirement: 18–59
- Income Threshold: Below R624/month
- Employment Status: Unemployed or informal job
- Monthly Payment: R370
- Start Date: May 2025
- Renewal: Every 3 months
- Application: srd.sassa.gov.za
2. Youth Employment Support Grant
- Age Requirement: 18–35
- Income Threshold: Below R1,200/month
- Employment Status: Not in education or employment
- Monthly Payment: R500
- Start Date: June 2025
- Duration: 6 months (no renewal needed)
- Application: www.dsd.gov.za
3. Unemployed Worker Transitional Aid
- Age Requirement: 36–60
- Income Threshold: Below R1,000/month
- Employment Status: Recently unemployed
- Monthly Payment: R450
- Start Date: July 2025
- Renewal: Every 6 months
- Application: Local Labour Office
4. Basic Income Support Voucher
- Age Requirement: 18+
- Income Threshold: Below R750/month
- Employment Status: Any status
- Monthly Payment: Food voucher (R300)
- Start Date: August 2025
- Renewal: Every 2 months
- Application: SASSA Mobile App
These new programs aim to provide targeted financial support while promoting employment and sustainable livelihoods.
How Future SASSA Grants Will Be Paid
SASSA is also changing the payment methods to make distribution more secure and efficient:
- Payments now require a bank account or mobile wallet.
- Post Office cash collection is no longer available.
- Biometric verification like fingerprints or face scans is mandatory.
- Payment days vary based on your ID number.
| Payment Method | Availability | Verification Needed | Expected Deposit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Account (Direct) | Nationwide | ID + Biometric | 24–48 hours from release |
| Mobile Money (eWallet) | Limited partners | Cell Number + ID | Instant after approval |
| Retailer Collection | Selected stores | OTP + ID | Same-day |
These changes reduce errors and improve accountability in grant payments.
Action Required for Previous UBIG Recipients
If you were receiving UBIG payments and want to continue receiving support:
- Submit a new application if you meet eligibility.
- Ensure bank or mobile wallet details are correct with SASSA.
- Complete fingerprint and photo verification.
- Check online at srd.sassa.gov.za for application approval.
Acting promptly ensures you do not miss out on any payments.
Official SASSA Contact for Help
SASSA provides multiple ways to get assistance or confirm grant status:
- Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 (weekdays 8 AM–4 PM)
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- WhatsApp: Text “Hi” to 082 046 8553
- Social Development inquiries: Call 012 312 7500 or visit www.dsd.gov.za
- Local SASSA offices are available in most towns for in-person support.
Always rely on official SASSA sources to avoid scams.
What the End of UBIG Means for South Africans
The termination of the Universal Basic Income Grant represents a shift from universal support to targeted assistance. Key points to remember:
- The new system focuses on people who need help the most.
- Payments are now tied to verification and eligibility requirements.
- Recipients must act quickly to ensure continuous support.
- The government aims for a more sustainable and accountable system.
While the transition may seem confusing, the new grants are designed to better serve South Africans and encourage self-sufficiency.
Conclusion
The end of UBIG in October 2025 marks a major change in South Africa’s social support system. New programs like the Expanded SRD Grant, Youth Employment Support Grant, Unemployed Worker Transitional Aid, and Basic Income Support Voucher provide focused financial assistance. Recipients must apply, verify their details, and follow SASSA’s new procedures to continue receiving support. Staying informed and acting quickly is essential to avoid missing payments. For accurate updates, always check official SASSA sources.
FAQs About SASSA Ends Universal Basic Income Grant
Q1. Why did SASSA end the Universal Basic Income Grant?
UBIG was temporary support during COVID-19. It ended due to financial strain, misuse of funds, and a shift toward targeted assistance.
Q2. Who can apply for the new SASSA grants?
New grants target unemployed adults, youth seeking jobs, recently unemployed workers, and low-income individuals who need basic support.
Q3. How will SASSA pay the new grants?
Payments will be made via bank accounts, mobile wallets, or selected retailers, with biometric verification required.
Q4. Do UBIG recipients need to apply again?
Yes. Everyone must submit a new application to continue receiving financial support.
Q5. Where can I get help with SASSA grants?
Contact the official helpline (0800 60 10 11), visit www.sassa.gov.za, or check your local SASSA office.
