Maximizing Your SASSA SRD R370 Grant: 10 Essential Tips

If you struggle to make your SASSA grant stretch to cover everything you need, it’s important to learn how to make the most of it. Even though R370 may not seem like a lot, careful planning and wise spending can make a big difference in your life.

A point to be noted here is that the SASSA SRD R370 grant is supplemental income and not the main source. The important part is to stretch this grant as much as you can by spending it only on extremely important items. 

As SRD R370 grant is not meant to last for long. Therefore, you must avoid wasting it on purchases you might think you needed but didn’t require in the first place. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to stretch SASSA R370 grant for monthly expenses.

How to Spend Your SASSA SRD R370 Grant? 

SASSA SRD R370 grant uses are many. You can spend a portion of your grant payment on most important items like buying basic food, paying off debts, utilities and rent. Or invest it in revenue generating activities like courses, vocational training, etc. Here’s a detailed outlook on how to manage SASSA SRD R370 effectively:

• Basic Food 

Food is the basic necessity of life. Only if you have some food in your belly can you have energy to do something else or think about how to make most of your SASSA R370 grant. So, buy long-lasting, nutritious staples like rice, pasta, beans, lentils, and canned goods. 

Plan meals to make these items go further, such as lentil soup or rice and beans with vegetables. Also, cook at home as you can control portions, choose healthier ingredients, and use leftovers. Batch cooking is also great. You can freeze extras.

• Utilities & Rent

Next, prioritize paying your utility bills and rent to ensure you have a home and electricity. Although the grant might not be able to pay your entire utility bill or rent, you can pay partially to prevent disconnection or losing your living space. You can also talk to service providers to arrange a payment plan.

• Medical Emergencies

Life is unexpected. Anything can happen in a blink of an eye. Therefore, it’s wise to save some grant money for emergency healthcare costs, as unexpected medical expenses can disrupt your budget. Even if it seems impossible try to set aside a small amount each month for medication, or doctor visits.

• Transportation

If you’re job hunting, use part of your SASSA grant for transportation to interviews, like public transport as it saves money. But if you have a job you can use grant money to pay fare to your workplace rather than paying it out of your pocket. On other hand, if your workplace is at a walking distance, you can invest grant money in some income generating activities.

• Invest in Revenue Generating Activities

Consider using part of grant to invest in small business activities for extra income. The best ways to invest SASSA SRD R370 grant money is by buying second-hand goods to sell, or starting a vegetable garden. You can also get tools or training for work if you don’t have a job.

• Buy Second Hand Clothing

Buy clothes for winter or summer to protect against cold and heat with grant money. Try purchasing second-hand clothing from thrift stores, where you can find great items at low prices with some patience.

• Pay Off Debts

Use part of your grant to pay off small, high-interest debts completely. This saves money on interest in long term. For larger debts, talk to your creditors about a repayment plan with lower monthly payments.

• Invest in Your Education and Skills

Use some of your grant to buy books, or online courses. If it’s possible, you can invest a portion of R370 grant to learn a new language, do vocational training, boost computer skills, or get a trade certification. Improving your skills can lead to better job opportunities and higher earnings.

• Invest in Freelancing Services

Out of all ideas for spending SASSA SRD R370 grant, investing money in earning a freelancing skill is best. If you know content writing, web design & development or other freelancing skills, you can get a second hand computer, laptop or mobile to kickstart your freelancing services.

• Buy Necessary Medication & Toiletries

Remember to include basic toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, and hygiene items in your SASSA grant budget. Also, prioritize any medical needs or prescriptions you have.

FAQs

• How to check R370 status?

Step 1: To check your SASSA SRD application status advance to srd.sassa.gov.za. Click on “Check Status.”

Step 2: Next, enter your ID number and phone number. Tap “Submit” to see your application status.

• How do I redeem SRD?

SASSA no longer uses post office for R370 grant payments. You can now get your payment through Pick n Pay, ShopRite, Checkers, Boxer stores, a USave account, or your own bank account.

• How do I claim uncollected SRD grant?

If you want to claim your uncollected SRD grant you have three options. Either visit a SASSA office for assistance from an official or use SASSA website or app to find instructions and complete verification. You can also call on SASSA’s toll-free number with your ID and details ready for help with unclaimed grants.

Conclusion

Even though the SASSA SRD R370 grant is modest, strategic planning and wise spending can greatly impact your life. By reading “How to spend your SASSA SRD R370 grant,” you now probably know how to prioritize food, utilities, handle surprises, and invest in skills or income. Remember every rand matters for your financial stability.