What Does SASSA ‘Age Out Of Range’ SRD Grant Status Mean?

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) aims to offer temporary financial aid to unemployed South Africans experiencing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other calamities.

In the case of a rejection with the status “Age Out of Range” for your SRD application, deciphering its meaning might initially seem perplexing.

 This article is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of what this specific status code entails. Additionally, it will outline the precise age prerequisites for the SRD grant and propose alternative social grant options if you find yourself outside the eligible age range.

SRD Grant Age Limit Requirements

When you apply for the monthly R350 SRD grant, SASSA mandates that applicants must fall within certain minimum and maximum age limits to be eligible.

As per the current SRD grant regulations as of February 2025, qualified recipients must:

  • Be 18 years or older: Only adult individuals aged 18 and above qualify, while those below 18 are excluded.
  • Be below 60 years of age: Applicants must not have reached their 60th birthday to qualify, as individuals aged 60 and above are ineligible.

These age parameters aim to target the SRD grant towards unemployed, working-age adults between 18 and 59 who have suffered substantial income losses due to the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic or other recognized disasters. 

The grant is not intended for minors or elderly individuals who might be eligible for other specialized social grants.

Understanding the “Age Out of Range” Status Code

When your SRD grant application is rejected or deemed unsuccessful with the status indicated as “Age Out of Range,” it indicates that your age falls outside the defined qualifying bracket of 18 to 59 years old.

This status arises in two scenarios:

1. Applicants Below 18 Years Old

If you are 17 years old or younger, you are considered ineligible for the SRD grant program. SASSA’s automated application system will automatically decline applications and flag the “Age Out of Range” status for applicants below 18.

2. Applicants Aged 60 Years or Older

Once you reach your 60th birthday and are 60 years or older, you exceed the set upper age limit for temporary SRD grant eligibility. Any applications submitted at the age of 60 or above will be automatically rejected and marked with the “Age Out of Range” status code.

Alternative Social Grant Options Available

If your SRD grant application is unsuccessful, and you receive the “Age Out of Range” rejection status due to your age, you might still be eligible for other specialized SASSA social grants instead.

Aged 17 Years or Younger

  • A parent or legal guardian can apply on your behalf for the Child Support Grant until you reach the age of 18. This grant provides up to R470 per month in financial assistance for eligible children. 
  • Foster Child Grants are also available through a foster care order application if you are a minor legally placed in foster care due to safety risks.

Aged 60 Years or Older

  • Submit an application for the Older Person’s Grant for South Africans aged 60 and above. This grant provides up to R1990 per month for eligible elderly applicants. 
  • If you have a confirmed severe permanent or temporary disability, you can apply for the Disability Grant worth up to R1970 per month. 
  • War veterans over 60 who meet requirements can also apply for the War Veteran’s Grant provided by SASSA.

Next Application Steps If You Fall Outside the Age Range

If SASSA informs you that your SRD grant application was unsuccessful and marked as “Age Out of Range,” follow the steps below:

  • Verify your actual age to ensure the accuracy of the status code.
  • If you are under 18 years old, have an adult parent or legal guardian apply for the Child Support Grant on your behalf.
  • If you are 60 years or older, submit an Older Person’s Grant application promptly as your new alternative.
  • Gather all the necessary documents, proofs, and information required for your new grant application.
  • Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the age-specific social grant you are applying for.
  • Submit your complete grant application through SASSA’s online portal, at your nearest SASSA office, or via email, following the preferred application channel.
  • Promptly follow up with SASSA if your new grant application faces rejection for any reason. Inquire about the specific reasons and resolve them where possible.

The Bottom Line

Meeting the defined age requirements, specifically falling between 18 and 59 years old, is crucial for qualifying for South Africa’s special Social Relief of Distress grant program. Failing to meet the minimum or maximum age cut-offs results in automatic rejection with the status “Age Out of Range.” However, alternative social grants are still accessible through SASSA for both younger and older age groups, provided you meet the relevant eligibility criteria.