GrantAdvance: SASSA Social Grant Cash Advance with TymeBank in 2025

For millions of South Africans relying on SASSA social grants, unexpected expenses can create financial strain before the next payment arrives. TymeBank’s GrantAdvance offers a practical solution, allowing eligible SASSA grant recipients to access up to R1,000 of their grant early, interest-free, and with no hidden fees.

This service is designed to provide quick financial relief, ensuring you can manage urgent needs without stress. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how GrantAdvance works, who qualifies, how to apply, and why TymeBank is a smart choice for managing your SASSA payments in 2025.

Quick Answer

What is TymeBank’s GrantAdvance?

GrantAdvance is an interest-free cash advance service offered by TymeBank for eligible SASSA grant recipients. You can access up to R1,000 of your grant between the 20th and 29th of each month, repaid automatically from your next grant payment.

Eligibility:

• Active TymeBank account holder.
• Receive a general SASSA grant (e.g., Child Support, Older Persons, Disability) paid into your TymeBank account.
• Not available for SRD R370 grant recipients.

How to Apply:

• Via TymeBank App: Check eligibility, apply, and receive funds instantly.
• Via USSD Code: Dial 120543#, select option 4, choose GrantAdvance, and get funds immediately.

Repayment: Automatically deducted from your next SASSA grant payment, with no interest or fees. 

What is TymeBank’s GrantAdvance?

TymeBank’s GrantAdvance is a financial lifeline for SASSA grant recipients facing urgent expenses. Unlike traditional loans, it’s not a loan but an advance on your upcoming grant, meaning you borrow against your next payment without interest or fees. You can access up to R1,000 (previously R500 in some cases, updated for 2025) between the 20th and 29th of each month, depending on your grant type. This service is exclusive to TymeBank account holders receiving general SASSA grants like Child Support, Older Persons, or Disability grants. Unfortunately, SRD R370 grant recipients are not eligible due to the grant’s lower amount.

Key Features of GrantAdvance

• Early Access: Get funds 10 days before your grant payment date.
• No Cost: Zero interest or fees, ensuring you keep more of your grant.
• Quick Process: Apply via the TymeBank app or USSD code and receive funds instantly.
• Hassle-Free Repayment: The advance is automatically deducted from your next grant payment.

Who Can Apply for GrantAdvance?

To qualify for GrantAdvance in 2025, you must meet the following requirements:

Eligibility Criteria

• TymeBank Account: You must have an active, biometrically verified TymeBank EveryDay account in good standing.
• SASSA Grant Recipient: Eligible grants include:
  • Child Support Grant
  • Older Persons Grant
  • Disability Grant
  • Care Dependency Grant
  • Foster Child Grant
  • Note: The SRD R370 grant is not eligible.
• Grant Payment Method: Your SASSA grant must be paid into your TymeBank account, with at least one prior payment received.
• Application Window: Available only from the 20th to 29th of each month.

Why These Requirements?

TymeBank ensures the advance is secure and sustainable by limiting it to verified account holders with predictable grant payments. This protects both the bank and beneficiaries from financial risk.

How to Apply for GrantAdvance in 2025

Applying for GrantAdvance is straightforward, with two convenient methods. Before applying, ensure you’re a TymeBank account holder and your SASSA grant is routed to your TymeBank account.

Method 1: Apply Via TymeBank Mobile App

1. Log In: Open the TymeBank app (available on iOS and Android).
2. Navigate: Go to the “GrantAdvance” section.
3. Check Eligibility: Tap “Check Eligibility” to confirm you qualify.
4. Apply: If eligible, select the advance amount (up to R1,000) and tap “Apply.”
5. Receive Funds: The advance is deposited into your TymeBank account instantly.

Method 2: Apply Via USSD Code

1. Dial: Open your phone’s dialer and dial *120*543#.
2. Select Option: Choose option 4 (SASSA Grant Advance).
3. Choose Amount: Select the eligible advance amount.
4. Confirm: Follow prompts to confirm, and funds are deposited immediately.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Ensure your TymeBank account is active and linked to your SASSA grant.
• Apply within the 20th–29th window to avoid rejection.
• Keep your phone number updated with TymeBank for USSD access.

How Does GrantAdvance Repayment Work?

Repaying your GrantAdvance is automatic and stress-free. Here’s how it works:

• Automatic Deduction: The advance amount (e.g., R1,000) is deducted from your next SASSA grant payment when it’s deposited into your TymeBank account.
• No Action Needed: You don’t need to manually repay or set reminders.
• No Extra Costs: TymeBank charges no interest or fees, ensuring your grant remains intact beyond the advance repayment.

Example

If you take a R1,000 advance and your next Child Support Grant is R510, TymeBank deducts the R1,000, and you receive the remaining balance (if applicable, depending on your grant type). This transparency eliminates financial stress.

Why Choose TymeBank for SASSA Grant Payments?

TymeBank is a digital-first bank designed for affordability and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for SASSA grant recipients. Here’s why:

Benefits of TymeBank for SASSA Payments

1. Instant Fund Access: Use your grant immediately via the app, USSD, or at retailers like Pick n Pay and Boxer.
2. No Monthly Fees: Keep your full grant with zero account maintenance charges.
3. Data-Free USSD Service: Check balances, transfer funds, or pay bills without internet access by dialing *120*543#.
4. User-Friendly App: The TymeBank app offers a simple interface, secure transactions, and real-time balance updates.
5. Free Withdrawals: Withdraw cash for free at Pick n Pay or Boxer stores, saving on ATM fees.
6. Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, ensuring you maximize your grant.
7. Reliable Support: Contact TymeBank’s customer service via the app, USSD, or call center for assistance.

Real-World Impact

As someone who’s explored banking options for grant recipients, I’ve seen how TymeBank’s no-fee model and early access features like GrantAdvance empower users. For example, a parent receiving a Child Support Grant can cover school supplies mid-month without resorting to high-interest loans.

How to Switch Your SASSA Grant to TymeBank

To use GrantAdvance, your SASSA grant must be paid into a TymeBank account. Switching is simple and takes 7–10 days for SASSA to process. Follow these steps:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open a TymeBank Account:
   • Visit a TymeBank kiosk at Pick n Pay, Boxer, or TFG stores, or register online at TymeBank’s official website.
   • Complete biometric verification for security.
2. Confirm SASSA Grant Status:
   • Ensure you’re an active SASSA grant recipient. If not, apply at a SASSA office or via
     .
3. Download Bank Statement:
   • Use the TymeBank app or a kiosk to download your account statement as proof of an active account.
4. Visit a SASSA Office:
   • Submit your TymeBank statement and request to update your payment method to TymeBank.
   • Verify all details (e.g., account number) to avoid delays.
5. Confirm the Switch:
   • Allow 7–10 days for SASSA to update your details.
   • Check your SASSA status online at
     or contact SASSA at 0800 60 10 11.

Pro Tip

Use TymeBank’s Minute Switch app to streamline the process. Download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, follow the prompts, and submit your details to SASSA electronically.

Pros and Cons of TymeBank GrantAdvance

Pros

• Quick Funds: Access up to R1,000 instantly for emergencies.
• No Costs: Interest-free and fee-free, unlike predatory loans.
• Convenient: Apply via app or USSD, no paperwork needed.
• Financial Control: Helps avoid debt from high-interest lenders.

Cons

• Limited Window: Only available from the 20th–29th of each month.
• Grant Reduction: The advance reduces your next grant payment, requiring careful budgeting.
• Excludes SRD Grant: Not available for R370 SRD recipients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get GrantAdvance for the SASSA SRD R370 grant?

No, GrantAdvance is only available for general SASSA grants like Child Support, Older Persons, or Disability grants, not the SRD R370 grant.

What is the TymeBank GrantAdvance USSD code?

Dial *120*543#, select option 4, and choose GrantAdvance to apply.

When can I apply for GrantAdvance?

You can apply between the 20th and 29th of each month.

Is TymeBank’s GrantAdvance a loan?

No, it’s an interest-free advance on your next SASSA grant, not a loan, with no additional fees.

Conclusion

TymeBank’s GrantAdvance is a game-changer for SASSA grant recipients needing urgent funds without the burden of interest or fees. By accessing up to R1,000 early, you can handle emergencies while maintaining financial control. Switching your SASSA grant to TymeBank unlocks this feature, plus benefits like no monthly fees, free withdrawals, and a user-friendly app.

Follow the steps above to apply, and take advantage of this transparent, cost-effective solution in 2025. For more details, visit https://www.tymebank.co.za/personal-banking/services/grantadvance/ or contact SASSA at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/.