SASSA Means Test Explained – How Eligibility Is Calculated

The SASSA SRD R370 grant is designed for South Africans facing severe financial distress. To ensure the grant only goes to those who truly need it, SASSA applies a strict means test to evaluate financial eligibility. This 2025 guide explains exactly how the means test works, how your income is calculated, and how you can avoid common issues that lead to declined applications.

What Is the SASSA Means Test?

The means test is a financial screening tool used by SASSA to determine if an applicant qualifies for the SRD grant based on their income and financial support.

The core rule for SRD R370 eligibility is:

Your bank account must not show more than R624 of incoming funds per month.

If deposits exceed this threshold, your application may be declined with the reason: Alternative Income Source Identified.

See full decline reasons here: SASSA SRD Decline Reasons Explained

Which Income Sources Are Considered in the Means Test?

SASSA checks all funds deposited into your bank accounts across multiple institutions. This includes:

• Salaries or wages (formal or informal)
• UIF payments (if still active)
• Business income
• Family or friends transferring money
• Dividends and investment payouts
• Rental income
• Any other cash inflows

⚠ Note: Even occasional large once-off deposits may trigger a decline.

Which Payments Are Excluded from the Means Test?

The following are generally not counted towards your income threshold:

• Previous SRD payments
• Social grants for children (if applying on your own behalf)
• Tax rebates
• Certain disaster relief payments

Always ensure proper documentation to justify any irregular deposits.

How SASSA Collects Your Financial Data

SASSA partners with several financial institutions and state agencies to verify your income:

• Direct access to your bank account transaction history.
• Cross-referencing SARS tax records.
• UIF payment records.
• Government payroll systems.

You authorize this data sharing when you consent during your SRD application.

Full application guide: How to Apply for SASSA SRD Grant

How Often Is the Means Test Applied?

• Monthly: The means test is performed every single month.
• Even if approved in one month, you may be declined the next if your bank balance changes.
• You do not need to reapply monthly, but the assessment continues automatically.

Common Scenarios That Can Trigger Means Test Declines

If you receive temporary or irregular financial help, explain these clearly when appealing.

See: SASSA SRD Appeal Process

Can You Reduce the Risk of Means Test Declines?

While you cannot control SASSA’s verification process, you can:

• Use a personal account solely for yourself (avoid shared accounts).
• Avoid large third-party deposits.
• Ensure your bank account matches the details you provided to SASSA.
• Keep track of your monthly balances and incoming funds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the current means test income limit?

As of 2025, you must not receive more than R624 total deposits per month across your bank accounts.

Does SASSA check all my bank accounts?

Yes. SASSA may check all accounts registered in your name across multiple banks.

Will a once-off deposit cause permanent disqualification?

No. Each month is assessed independently. A once-off deposit may only affect one month’s status.

If I repay money I received, will it reverse the decline?

No. SASSA assesses based on the fact of receiving income, not on your balance after refunding.

Can I transfer my SRD grant into someone else’s bank account?

No. SRD payments should be received in your own verified personal account.

Final Tip

Always monitor your finances carefully. Many declines happen because applicants underestimate how even small deposits can exceed the means test threshold.

For full guidance on your application, appeals, and eligibility, visit our complete SASSA SRD Guide 2025.

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