All your SASSA questions answered (2025)

Status & SRD

1) How do I check my SRD status online?

To check your SRD grant status, go to the official SASSA SRD website: srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status. On that page you will see two boxes. Enter your South African ID number in the first box, and the cellphone number you used when you applied in the second box. After you click submit, the website will show your monthly results. Each month will say either Pending, Approved, or Declined. This is the only official way to see your SRD status online.

2) Can I check SRD status on WhatsApp?

No, you cannot check your SRD status on WhatsApp. SASSA does have WhatsApp (for information only) at 082 054 0016, but this number is only for giving you information and answering common questions. It will not tell you if your grant is approved or declined. To check your real SRD status, you must always use the official website: srd.sassa.gov.za.

3) My SRD status says Approved but there’s no pay date - what does that mean?

If your SRD status shows “Approved” but does not give you a payment date, it means that SASSA has approved your grant but has not yet assigned your payment batch. Payments are not released all at once - they are processed in groups near month‑end (see SRD payment dates window). Once your payment batch is ready, a date will show on your status page. This usually happens between the 25th and the last day of the month. After the date appears, it may take 2 to 3 working days for the money to show in your bank account.

4) My SRD status has been Pending for weeks - is that normal?

Yes, this can happen. “Pending” means SASSA is still checking your information. They look at your income, bank accounts, and other databases each month. Sometimes this takes longer, especially in the middle of the month. Most “Pending” cases update near the end of the month, around the 25th. If your status stays “Pending” even after the month has ended, then you should check that your contact details and banking information are correct, and use the SRD status check to confirm updates.

5) Why was my SRD application Declined?

There are several reasons your SRD might be declined. The most common reason is that SASSA found income of more than R624 in your bank account for that month. Another reason is if you are receiving other support like UIF or NSFAS. Sometimes the system shows a decline if your ID number does not match with Home Affairs records. When you are declined, the status page should give you a reason. If you believe it is wrong, you can submit an appeal — see the SRD appeal guide for steps and documents.

6) Do I need to reapply for SRD every month?

No, you do not need to reapply every month. Once your application is accepted, it stays active (see our SRD help hub). However, SASSA will check your details every month to see if you still qualify. That is why your status may say “Approved” in one month and “Declined” in another. You only need to reapply if SASSA tells you to, or if your application was closed. Always keep your contact and banking details up to date.

7) Can I change my phone number for SRD OTPs?

Yes, you can. If you lost your old number or got a new SIM card, you can change your phone number on the SRD website. Log in with your ID number, then look for the option to update your contact details. You will have to confirm the new number with a one-time PIN (OTP). Make sure the number is registered in your name and can receive SMS messages.

8) I changed my bank account - how long will payment take?

When you change your bank details, it usually takes one full payment cycle before the new account is used. This means if you changed your bank in the middle of October, your October payment may still go to your old account or be delayed, and the new account will only be used in November. Always use a bank account in your own name to avoid rejection. For steps and timing, see our SRD banking changes guide.

9) I missed SASSA SMS messages - how can I fix it?

If you are not getting SMS messages from SASSA, first check that your cellphone number is correct on the SRD website. If you got a new number, update it online. Make sure your SIM card is active and RICA registered. If you still miss messages, log in to the SRD website to check your status directly — or use our SRD status check guide to confirm your result.

10) Does SRD pay on weekends or public holidays?

No, SASSA does not process SRD payments on weekends or on public holidays. If your pay date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, your payment will be moved to the next working day. This is why most SRD payments are batched between the 25th and the last weekday of the month (see SRD payment dates window).

Payment Dates & Collections

11) What are the SASSA payment dates for September 2025?

There are four main payment dates: one for Older Persons Grants, one for Disability Grants, one for Children’s and other Grants, and a separate payment window for SRD. For the exact days, see SASSA payment dates - September 2025.

12) Can I collect after the payment date?

Yes, you can collect after the official date. Once the money is deposited into your account, it stays there until you withdraw it. There is no time limit for withdrawing your funds. This means you do not have to rush to the ATM or retailer on the first day. It is often better to wait a few days to avoid long queues.

13) What if there’s a public holiday on my date?

If your payment date falls on a public holiday, SASSA usually moves the payment to the working day just before or just after the holiday. For example, if your date is 16 December, which is a holiday, you might be paid on 15 December instead. Always check the SASSA payment dates page to see if any changes have been announced.

14) How can I avoid long queues at retailers like Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Usave, or ATMs?

The best way to avoid long queues is not to collect on the very first day. Many people rush to withdraw money as soon as it is available, which makes shops and ATMs very busy. If you wait a few days, the crowds will be smaller. Try going mid-week, early in the morning, or later in the evening if the store is still open. Using your bank card to pay directly in shops also helps reduce the need for large cash withdrawals.

15) If I am not paid by my date, when should I worry and who should I contact?

If your money has not arrived 2 or 3 working days after your scheduled payment date, first check your SRD or grant status online. Make sure your bank details are correct. If your payment is still missing after 5 working days, you should call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11. You can also visit your local SASSA office for help.

16) Can someone else collect on my behalf?

Yes, another person can collect your grant on your behalf, but you must give them written permission. This is called a power of attorney. The person must take their own ID, your ID, and the letter of permission to the pay point. SASSA must approve this arrangement. This rule is in place to protect you from fraud.

17) Do funds expire if I don’t withdraw them?

No, your funds do not expire. Once SASSA has paid the money into your account, it will stay there until you use it. You can wait days, weeks, or even months before withdrawing, and the money will still be there.

Banking & Payments

18) How do I change bank details for SASSA grants?

The process depends on which grant you receive. For the SRD grant, you can change your bank details online at srd.sassa.gov.za. Enter your ID number, and SASSA will send a one-time PIN to confirm. For other permanent grants, you need to fill out an Annexure C form (see our banking details guide). This form must be stamped by your bank, and then you must submit it at a SASSA office. Always use a bank account in your own name.

19) What causes bounced payments and how do I fix them?

A bounced payment means SASSA tried to pay you but the money was sent back. This can happen if your bank account is closed, if the account name does not match your ID, or if there is a technical error. To fix it, make sure you have an active account in your name only. For SRD, see the SRD banking changes guide. For other grants (Annexure C), see our banking details guide. Once corrected, your payment will usually go through in the next cycle.

20) Can I use a third-party account to receive my grant?

No. SASSA only pays into accounts that are in your own name. They do this to prevent fraud. If you try to use someone else’s account, the payment will bounce. If you do not have a bank account, you can collect in cash at approved retailers or ATMs using your SASSA/Postbank card.

21) What if I do not have a bank account? Can I still get my grant?

Yes, you can still receive your grant even if you do not have a bank account. You can use cash collection at Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Usave, or Postbank ATMs with your SASSA card and ID. However, it is safer and faster to open a low-fee bank account in your own name. That way, you avoid long queues and reduce the risk of carrying cash.

Appeals & Reviews

22) How do I appeal an SRD decline?

If your SRD application is declined, you can appeal within 90 days. Go to srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals, enter your ID and cellphone number, select the month you are appealing, and upload supporting documents. For example, if your application was declined because of “income detected,” you can upload a bank statement showing you had no income. The Independent Tribunal reviews appeals, and if you win, the money is back-paid.

23) How do I appeal a non-SRD grant decision?

For grants like Old Age, Disability, or Child Support, you must appeal through SASSA and the Department of Social Development (DSD). If your application was declined, visit your local SASSA office with your ID, your application reference number, and any supporting documents. Ask to lodge an appeal with the DSD Tribunal - see our non‑SRD appeals guide for steps and timelines. Keep copies of everything you submit.

24) What happens during a review of my grant?

Reviews are checks to make sure you still qualify for your grant. SASSA may ask for updated documents such as proof of income, medical reports, or proof of residence. If you do not respond, your grant may be suspended. Always reply quickly to review requests to avoid problems.

25) Will I get back-pay if my appeal is successful?

Yes, if your appeal is successful, SASSA will pay you for the months you missed. For example, if your grant was wrongly declined for June and July, and your appeal is approved in August, you will receive June, July, and August all together.

Eligibility & Applications

26) Who qualifies for the Old Age Grant?

60+, live in SA, citizen/PR/refugee, pass means/asset tests (see the Old Age Grant guide for full rules), not receiving another personal grant. Bring ID, income proof, and residence proof.

27) Who qualifies for the Child Support Grant?

You must be the primary caregiver of a child under 18. This could be a parent, grandparent, or another caregiver. The child must live in South Africa. You must pass the means test, which sets limits on your yearly income (see the Child Support Grant guide). In 2025 the grant pays R560 per child, with an extra R280 top‑up for orphans.

28) Who qualifies for the Disability Grant?

18–59 with a medical condition making you unfit for work; medical report not older than 3 months (see the Disability Grant guide). Temporary (6–12 months) or longer with reviews.

29) Who qualifies for Care Dependency, Foster, or War Veterans Grants?

• Care Dependency Grant: for a caregiver of a child under 18 with a severe disability needing full-time care. See Care Dependency.
• Foster Child Grant: for court-appointed foster parents caring for a child under 18. See Foster Child.
• War Veterans Grant: for veterans of WWI, WWII, or the Korean War who are over 60 or disabled. See War Veterans.

30) Can refugees, asylum seekers, or special-permit holders apply for grants?

Yes. If you are living in South Africa legally with valid documents such as refugee status or a special permit, you may apply. You must meet the same income and eligibility rules as citizens.

Security & Scams

31) Is there an official app for SRD status?

No, there is no official SASSA mobile app. The only real website is srd.sassa.gov.za. If you see apps or links asking for your ID or bank details, do not use them. They may be scams.

32) What are the most common SASSA scams?

Some people try to trick beneficiaries by saying you must pay a fee to apply. All applications are free. Others send fake SMS or WhatsApp messages claiming you will get “double payments” or “extra bonuses.” Scammers may also ask for your PIN or your card. SASSA and Postbank will never ask for your PIN or card.

33) How can I report SASSA card theft or fraud?

If your card is stolen, call Postbank right away to block it. Then report the theft to SASSA on 0800 60 10 11. You can replace your card at a Post Office or SASSA office. If you think someone used your grant fraudulently, also report it to the police.

Odds & Ends

34) How do grant increases work?

SASSA grants usually increase twice a year - in April and October (see Grant Amounts & Increases (2025)). The exact increase depends on the national budget and inflation. For example, in April 2025, the Old Age and Disability Grants increased to R2,315, while the Child Support Grant increased to R560.

35) Can I switch from cash collection to a bank account, or back again?

Yes, you can. To switch to a bank account, submit Annexure C at SASSA (see banking details guide) or, for SRD, update on the official site (see SRD banking changes). To switch back to cash collection, you must inform SASSA. It may take a payment cycle for the change to show.

36) What should I bring to a SASSA branch, and when is the best time to go?

Always bring your ID and any documents SASSA requested. If you are applying, bring proof of income, bank details, and proof of residence. The best times to go are mid‑week mornings, usually Tuesday to Thursday, when offices are less busy (see our SASSA branch finder).

37) Does the status check show the exact pay date or just approval?

The status check shows both. First, it shows if your application for that month is approved or declined. If approved, it later shows your exact pay date once SASSA has batched your payment - you can check the date on our SRD status check guide. At first you may only see “Approved” without a date, but the date usually appears closer to the end of the month.

38) How long does KYC or e-KYC take, and what if it fails?

KYC (Know Your Customer) is when SASSA checks your ID and bank details with databases. It normally takes a few days. Sometimes it takes longer, which is why you see “Pending.” If KYC fails, you may need to correct your details online or at a branch. Always make sure your ID and bank info are correct and in your own name.

39) Where can I get official help with SASSA?

The best way is to call the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11. You can also email GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. Online, the only official websites are sassa.gov.za and srd.sassa.gov.za. SASSA also posts updates on its verified social media pages, such as Facebook (@SASSANews) and Twitter/X (@OfficialSASSA).

Need help? Toll‑free helpline: 0800 60 10 11. Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. Official sites: sassa.gov.za and srd.sassa.gov.za.