Municipal Indigent Register — Free Basic Services for Low-Income Households
South Africa's Constitution guarantees basic services, and municipalities are required by law to provide free basic services to households that cannot afford to pay. The indigent register is the official database of qualifying low-income households. Once registered, you receive free basic electricity, water, refuse removal, and a property rates rebate. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, what documents you need, and how to renew your registration.
What Is the Indigent Register?
The indigent register is maintained by each municipality to identify households that qualify for free basic services under the government's Free Basic Services (FBS) policy. The policy was introduced to give effect to the constitutional right of access to basic services.
Municipalities receive national government funding (the Equitable Share) specifically to subsidise these free services. Without being on the register, you cannot access these benefits.
What Free Services Do You Receive?
| Service | Standard Benefit |
|---|---|
| Electricity | 50 kWh per month (some municipalities give 6 kWh per day) |
| Water | 6 kilolitres per month |
| Refuse removal | Free weekly collection |
| Property rates | Rates rebate or full exemption (varies by municipality and property value) |
| Sanitation | Free basic sanitation in many municipalities |
Who Qualifies for the Indigent Register?
- The primary account holder must be the property owner or registered tenant.
- The household's total monthly income must fall below the municipality's threshold — typically equal to twice the Old Age Pension amount (approximately R4,380 per month in 2026, but varies by municipality).
- Income includes all sources: wages, social grants, pensions, and rental income.
- Only the primary/main account holder per property qualifies — not multiple members separately.
- The property must be used for residential purposes (not a business or commercial property).
How to Apply
- Contact your municipality — either visit a customer service centre or call the main municipal number.
- Ask for an indigent registration form (sometimes called a Social Package application).
- Complete the form with your personal details and household income information.
- Submit the completed form with supporting documents.
- The municipality will verify your information — some municipalities do home visits.
- If approved, your account will be updated to show the free services credit within 1–4 weeks.
Documents Required
- South African ID book or Smart ID card (the account holder's ID).
- Proof of residence: a utility bill, lease agreement, or affidavit confirming your address.
- Proof of income: recent payslips, pension letter (SASSA letter), or an affidavit signed before a Commissioner of Oaths confirming no income.
- Your municipal account number (shown on your monthly account statement).
- Completed indigent application form (available from the municipality).
- Proof of property ownership (if applicable): title deed or rates notice.
Annual Renewal
Indigent registration is not permanent. Most municipalities require annual renewal to confirm that you still qualify. If you do not renew, your free services will stop.
The municipality will notify you when renewal is due — usually 1 month before expiry. Renew at any customer service centre with the same documents as the initial application.