Applying for the free, subsidised TV decoder

Applying for the free, subsidised TV decoder – All you need to know

With the deadline set for 31 March 2025, those who qualify for the free, government-subsidised TV decoder are urged to apply.

South Africans without digital television can apply for the free government-subsidised TV decoder before the deadline. Image: Pexels

South Africans who qualify to receive the free, subsidised TV decoder have only a few weeks to apply before the deadline.

The date for all homes to migrate from analogue to digital has been set for the end of March. Failure to do so could result in millions of households being without access to television at the end of this month.

So, here’s all the information you need to know to apply for the free decoder – and find out if you qualify.

WHO QUALIFIES TO APPLY FOR THE FREE, SUBSIDISED TV DECODER?

Before applying for the free, subsidised TV decoder, also called the set-top box, individuals first need to know if they qualify for one.

According to the South African Post Office (SAPO), there are two requirements to qualify. These are as follows:

Households with a family income of R3 500 or less per month
SASSA grant beneficiaries

NOTE: Those who meet these requirements also need to have a working television to be able to receive the free TV decoder.

WHAT IF YOU DON’T QUALIFY?

Households that don’t qualify for a free, subsidised TV decoder have the choice to purchase it at the Post Office at a once-off cost.

They can also buy one with no monthly subscription at certain retailers. For more information contact the Go Digital call centre at 0800 111 188.

HOW TO APPLY FOR THE FREE, SUBSIDISED TV DECODER?

After confirming qualifying for the free, subsidised TV decoder, individuals can go ahead and apply. Applying requires providing certain documents to the Post Office. The documents that are needed are as follows:

A South African Identity Document
Proof of address
An affidavit confirming that the household has a working television
A bank statement or affidavit to confirm family income

South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries don’t need to provide proof of income, only proof that they receive a grant.

Also, if you will require an affidavit to prove having a working television set, your household income and address, this can be obtained at the Post Office. Most branches have standard affidavits.