Simple explanation of the SASSA means test for 2026. Learn what it is, how it works, income thresholds, what counts as income, and how to pass the means test for social grants.
The "means test" is one of the most important but confusing aspects of applying for SASSA grants. Many South Africans don't understand what it means, how it works, or why their application was declined based on income. This guide explains the SASSA means test in simple, easy-to-understand terms for 2026, helping you understand income thresholds, what counts as income, and how to determine if you qualify.
A means test is a way for SASSA to determine if you're financially eligible for a social grant. "Means" refers to your financial resources—essentially, how much money you have or earn. The test checks whether your income and assets are below a certain threshold (limit).
Purpose:
In Simple Terms:
If you earn too much money, you don't qualify for the grant. If you earn very little or nothing, you likely qualify.
The Test Checks:
Simple Example:
Threshold: R624 per month
Your Income: R500 per month
Result: You qualify (R500 is less than R624)
Your Income: R800 per month
Result: You don't qualify (R800 is more than R624)
Monthly Income Limit:
Important Notes:
Different grants have different thresholds:
Note: This guide focuses on R350 SRD grant threshold of R624/month.
1. Employment Income
2. Self-Employment Income
3. Government Benefits
4. Support Payments
5. Rental Income
6. Investment Income
7. Other Regular Income
Excluded from Means Test:
Important: Only regular, recurring income counts toward the means test.
If Income is Regular:
If Income Varies:
If Income is Irregular:
Step 1: List All Income Sources
Step 2: Compare to Threshold
1. Bank Statement Analysis
2. Database Cross-Referencing
3. Third-Party Verification
4. Self-Declaration
Situation:
Means Test Result:
Situation:
Means Test Result:
Situation:
Means Test Result:
Situation:
Means Test Result:
Situation:
Means Test Result:
Note: You cannot receive SRD grant while receiving UIF.
Do:
Don't:
Remember:
Steps:
If Requested:
Option 1: Wait for Income to Decrease
Option 2: Appeal if Decline Was Wrong
Option 3: Consider Other Assistance
Option 4: Accept the Decision
The income threshold for the R350 SRD grant in 2026 is R624 per month. You must earn R624 or less to qualify.
The threshold may be adjusted annually based on inflation and government policy. Check SASSA announcements for any changes.
If your income varies, SASSA calculates your average monthly income over 3-6 months. If your average is R624 or less, you may qualify.
No, one-time payments (like gifts, loans, or emergency assistance) don't count. Only regular, recurring monthly income counts.
If you're actively receiving UIF payments, you typically cannot receive the SRD grant. However, once UIF ends, you can apply for SRD grant if you meet other criteria.
Yes, the means test focuses on monthly income, not savings. Having savings doesn't automatically disqualify you, as long as your monthly income is R624 or less.
For the SRD grant, your own income is assessed. However, if you receive regular financial support from your spouse, that support may count as income.
SASSA verifies income through:
If you believe SASSA calculated your income incorrectly, you can appeal the decision and provide proof that your actual income is below the threshold.
The threshold is R624 or less, so if you earn exactly R624 per month, you should qualify. However, if you earn more than R624 (even R625), you won't qualify.
The SASSA means test is simply a way to check if your monthly income is low enough to qualify for grants. For the R350 SRD grant, you need to earn R624 or less per month from all sources combined. Understanding what counts as income, how it's calculated, and how to accurately report it helps ensure your application is processed correctly. Remember, honesty is essential—providing false information is fraud and can result in permanent disqualification.
For more information about eligibility requirements, application processes, or appealing a decline, explore our other comprehensive SASSA guides.
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Specializing in South African social grants and SASSA services with extensive knowledge of application processes and grant management.