The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) will today open the process for applications of the R350 Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant for unemployed people.<\/p>\n
The amount will be paid to qualifying applications from May \u2013 October 2020.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith regards to the Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant, we have gone back, re-looked at our systems and have strengthened the modus operandi. We believe we are ready to open the process today,\u201d SASSA Chief Executive Officer Busisiwe Memela-Khambula said.<\/p>\n
Speaking at a virtual media briefing on Monday, Memela-Khambula said technology will be used to deliver services.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver time, we will be able to extend support to those people who will not have access to technology. It is very important to note that for us to deliver a service that is efficient; we are going have to use technology even in areas that are far flung. We are going to get people to offer support in those areas,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She emphasised that SASSA would remain vigilant to avoid a situation where people try to defraud the system.<\/p>\n
The requirement of proof of address for the grant appliction has fallen away, but applicants must still provide their residential address.<\/p>\n
The grant forms part of the R500 billion economic and social relief measures announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa last month.<\/p>\n
Applicants must be:<\/p>\n
Prospective applicants will need to provide the following compulsory information for processing of their applications:<\/p>\n