Lucky Cungwa
Senior Editor · Independent coverage of the Supreme Court of Appeal proceedings
What Happened
On 25 August 2026, SASSA appeared before the Supreme Court of Appeal in a case about access to the SRD R370 grant. In its submissions, SASSA said it has put measures in place to improve how people can apply and get help with the SRD system. It specifically named two options: free call centres where a real person helps you, and self-service kiosks that have been rolled out in many SASSA offices, with libraries planned next.
No Immediate Change for Applicants
The court case is still being heard, and no new policy has been announced. The system remains primarily online. But the call centre and kiosks SASSA described already exist — this article explains how to use them right now.
Free Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
The SASSA toll-free helpline on 0800 60 10 11 connects you to a real person who can help with SRD applications, status checks, declined grants, and payment problems. It is free from any phone, and is best called in the early morning or after 3pm when queues are shorter.
Self-Service Kiosks at SASSA Offices
SASSA has rolled out self-service kiosks at many local offices. These let you apply for SRD, check your status, and update details on a touchscreen — with staff nearby to help. Not every office has one yet, so check with your nearest office before travelling.
What Was the Case About?
The appeal concerns how people access the SRD grant, which remains digital-first. Campaigners have argued that online-only access leaves out people without smartphones, data, or digital skills. SASSA's court submissions describe the call centres and kiosks as part of the answer to that concern.
Has the SRD grant changed because of the court case?
No. The grant amount (R370) and the application system are unchanged. The court case is about improving access and is still being heard. Watch our news section for any ruling.
Can I apply for SRD at a SASSA office now?
The application is still submitted online or on a self-service kiosk at the office. You cannot submit a full application by phone, but a call centre agent can walk you through it. Many offices have kiosks where staff help you apply on the spot.
Is the call centre number still 0800 60 10 11?
Yes. Dial 0800 60 10 11 from any phone Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. It is toll-free.
Do self-service kiosks cost money?
No. Kiosks and staff help at SASSA offices are completely free.
Complete Guide: Call Centres and Kiosks
Step-by-step: what the call centre can do, what kiosks can do, and what still needs to be done online
Check Your SRD Status
All the ways to check your SRD grant status
Appeal a Declined SRD
How to appeal if your SRD application is declined
SRD Scam Alert
Spot fake SASSA messages and fraud calls
Sources used on this page
Coverage based on SASSA's submissions to the Supreme Court of Appeal on 25 August 2026. Court outcomes pending.
Need Official Assistance?
This is an independent informational resource. For official services — checking your grant status, updating your details, or submitting an appeal — please use the official SASSA portals directly: