The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) confirmed that more than 10 million people submit applications for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant monthly. However, approximately only 8 million are approved for SRD grant payments.
If you applied for the SRD Grant, you can perform a Sassa status check. This check not only informs you whether your application has been approved but also provides guidance on further actions depending on your status. It will also indicate when you will be paid during the SRD grant payment cycle.
How To Do An Online Sassa Status Check
- Visit the official Sassa SRD website.
- Select the "Application Status" section.
- Enter your South African ID number and the phone number used during your application.
- Click "Check Status." You may receive a one-time PIN (OTP) via SMS.
- Enter the OTP to view your application status.
Understanding Your Sassa Status
- Pending: If your application is marked as pending, it means it is under review. Processing times can vary, so patience is required during this stage.
- Approved: Once your application is approved, you will receive an SMS notification. You can collect your SRD Grant at Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, or Boxer stores. Alternatively, the amount can be deposited directly into your bank account if applicable.
- Declined: If your application is declined, don't be discouraged. You have the right to appeal the decision.
Sassa will then provide you with a pay date. The agency reminded beneficiaries that their money may take between two and three days before it is reflected in their bank accounts. Once the money is reflected in their bank account, they can begin using tier grant money.
Funds will take about 2-3 working days to reflect in the client’s account after payment has been processed.
Who Qualifies for the SRD Grant?
Applicants must meet specific criteria to qualify for the SRD Grant in South Africa. This includes being a South African citizen, resident, or special permit holder. Beneficiaries cannot receive other government support, such as Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) benefits, National Student Financial Aid Scheme funding or other Social Gratns and must have a bank balance below R624.
Appealing a Declined Application
If you meet the eligibility criteria but your application is rejected, you can submit an appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
Each month that your application is rejected requires a separate appeal. The ITSAA aims to finalise appeals within 60-90 days. Their decision is final, but applicants can request a judicial review within 180 days of receiving the ITSAA decision.
Grant beneficiaries are reminded to use only official channels to check their status. Beware of fake websites.
