Many beneficiaries of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant have reported significant delays in receiving their ID verification links from the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa). These delays have caused frustration and anxiety among beneficiaries who rely on the grant for financial support.
Sassa introduced a biometric identity verification system to reduce the risk of social grant fraud, particularly targeting the SRD grant. However, the move has sparked significant concerns among advocacy groups and beneficiaries.
Sassa explained that the biometric verification process is required for all SRD grant applicants who want to update their mobile numbers or banking details. Individuals who are suspected of identity theft will also be subject to biometric verification.
However, many beneficiaries are complaining that they have not received their ID verification links. The primary cause of the delays appears to be difficulties in verifying identities for those who possess the older green ID books.
It’s suspected that the photos on the older green ID books are often not clear enough for Sassa's new facial recognition system. While Sassa has said that a smart ID is not essential for verification, they have acknowledged that those with green ID books face a higher likelihood of verification failure.
One affected beneficiary, who wished to remain anonymous, despite numerous efforts to get a verification link, has been unsuccessful.
I have been trying to verify my identity with Sassa for over a week now. Despite several requests and even obtaining a HANIS (Home Affairs National Identification System) report from Home Affairs, I have yet to receive a verification link. I sent a copy of my ID to Sassa, but there has been no response.
Smart ID Applications
Sassa’s reliance on smart ID cards for their facial recognition system has led many beneficiaries to apply for ID cards. Beneficiaries can apply for a smart ID either in person at a Home Affairs office or online.
The Home Affairs Call Centre, reachable at 0800 60 11 90 or via email at [email protected], is available for those who encounter issues with the online application.
Home Affairs offers the smart ID card free of charge to 16-year-olds applying for the first time, while all other applicants must pay R140. However, due to an overwhelming number of applications, Home Affairs is experiencing processing delays, potentially affecting grant recipients who may not receive their new IDs in time for the next payment cycle.
Sassa has urged beneficiaries to follow up on their verification requests persistently. The agency can be contacted through various channels:
- Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Hotline: 0800 601 011
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Sassa Grants
Beneficiaries are also advised to keep detailed records of their communications with Sassa, including the names of representatives, information provided, and contact dates, to facilitate potential escalations.
