Sassa has confirmed that the delays affect individuals who must verify their personal details and financial circumstances. This is part of an effort to correct inclusion errors and ensure that Sassa grants are only paid to eligible recipients.
Who Is Affected?
The delays apply to beneficiaries using alternative identification methods instead of the standard 13-digit South African ID number. A recent review, conducted in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, found that many of these individuals do in fact have valid 13-digit IDs on record - but these were not captured in the Sassa system.
These clients must present themselves at Sassa offices so their 13-digit ID numbers can be correctly recorded,
The agency warned that those who fail to verify their details will face a suspension of their Sassa grants.
Failure to do so may result in suspension of grants, and if uncorrected, the grant may eventually lapse.
Means Test Verification
In addition, Sassa is following up with beneficiaries flagged during a recent bulk means test. This process identified individuals who may have undisclosed income in other bank accounts, potentially making them ineligible for continued support.
These beneficiaries must also visit their local Sassa office to verify their financial information.
Under Regulation 30 of the Social Assistance Act, grants may be reviewed at any time if there is reason to believe that a beneficiary's financial situation has changed.
A person might have qualified for a grant at the time of application but may no longer be eligible if their financial situation has improved.
Combating Fraud and Strengthening Oversight
Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi said that in the 2025/2026 financial year, the agency will step up its efforts to ensure all beneficiaries regularly confirm their eligibility.
We will identify clients monthly and request that they come into our offices to verify their personal details,
Letsatsi also noted that the process will help expose internal corruption.
We will also investigate possible collusion by Sassa officials who may be working with outsiders to defraud the system.
Sassa is urging all grant recipients to cooperate with the verification process to prevent payment disruptions and to support a fair and transparent Sassa grants system.
