The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has issued a warning to beneficiaries aged 75 and older, as another scam has come to light. These individuals are often targeted due to their vulnerability.
The latest scam offers an extra R500 to Sassa grant beneficiaries. However, Sassa has warned beneficiaries not to fall for this and to keep their personal information safe.
Sassa has warned senior citizens aged 75 and above, including people living with disabilities, to be aware of a social media scam claiming they will receive an additional R500 payment.
The only grant that will see beneficiaries receive a boost is the Grant-in-Aid, set at R530 per month. This allows an additional grant to be paid to an existing Sassa beneficiary to pay the person who provides full-time care to an individual who is unable to care for themselves.
Sassa's Mpumalanga spokesperson, Senzeni Ngubeni, said: "The applicant must receive an Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, or a War Veteran’s Grant, and require regular attendance by another person due to their physical or mental disabilities; they must not be cared for in a state-subsidised institution."
To qualify for the Grant-in-Aid, beneficiaries must undergo a medical or functional assessment or provide clinical information or a referral form confirming their disability.
Sassa Grant-in-Aid
Sassa provides the grant through different payment options:
- Cash collection at a designated pay point on a specified date
- Electronic deposit into a bank or Postbank account (note that bank charges may apply)
- Payment through an institution managing the grant, such as a welfare organisation
The amount will be paid alongside the social grant. If beneficiaries cannot collect the grant themselves, they can authorise someone to do so by appointing a procurator at a Sassa office or granting power of attorney.
Beneficiaries are urged not to share their personal details with anyone and to be vigilant against those posing as Sassa officials. They should call the police if they suspect any fraudulent activity.
