NSFAS beneficiaries don’t qualify for R350 special distress grant:Zulu

Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu has outlined the qualifying criteria for the special Covid-19 social relief of distress grant of R350 per month.

In a briefing on Wednesday Zulu revealed that individuals who are receiving a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) do not qualify for the special grant.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a social relief and economic support package of R500 billion to direct resources towards fighting the Covid-19 global pandemic.

Minister Zulu said the grant will be available to South African Citizens, permanent residents or refugees registered on the home affairs system and residing within the borders of the Republic of South Africa.

Applicants must be:

-Above the age of 18
-Unemployed
-Not receiving any income
-Not receiving any social grant
-Not receiving any Unemployment insurance benefits
-Not receiving a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
-Not resident in a government funded or subsidised institution

Zulu said applications may be lodged electronically including using WhatsApp or an e-mail.

“For our people with no access to technology, volunteers will be trained to assist applicants who cannot use technology and will be provided with gadgets to capture details on behalf of applicants,” said Zulu.

Payments will be made through bank accounts of the applicants and through cash send measures through banks.