JOHANNESBURG – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed that it is conducting a targeted review of grants to verify continued eligibility among recipients suspected of having alternative income sources not previously declared.
This follows the agency’s extensive audit of its beneficiary database and payment systems, aimed at rooting out ineligible recipients and enforcing compliance with the Social Assistance Act.
“In its efforts to ensure that the right grant is paid to the right person, SASSA will continue to review social grants of targeted beneficiaries suspected to have other alternative sources of income that were not disclosed to SASSA,” the Agency shared in Wednesday (July 2).
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What the review entails
Identified beneficiaries must report to their nearest SASSA local office for a full eligibility review. The review focuses on:
- Individuals active in the labour market
- Those whose income exceeds the means threshold
- Recipients who failed to disclose secondary income or additional bank accounts
“These targeted beneficiaries are expected to present themselves at a SASSA Local Office where their eligibility will be reviewed… Beneficiaries who fail to comply with this process risk having their grants suspended. Continued non-compliance may lead to the permanent lapsing of their grants.”
No suspensions yet — but time is running out
SASSA clarified that no grants have been suspended yet, but payment schedules have been amended for those called in for review. This means some recipients will see delayed payments this month, not outright stoppages.
“It is also important to note that no grant has been suspended yet. SASSA has only amended the payment schedule for those beneficiaries who have been requested to come in for a review.”
A key challenge is that many beneficiaries don’t update their contact details, resulting in missed notices.
“From previous reviews, SASSA has become aware that most clients do not maintain their contact details with SASSA… While it is a legislative obligation for all beneficiaries to ensure that their contact details are always up to date.”
Deadline and risk of permanent cancellation
If no contact is made within two months, the grant will be suspended. Affected recipients will then have one month to appeal. Failure to respond will lead to permanent cancellation and may result in a fraud investigation.
“During the time of suspension, the beneficiary has one month to approach SASSA should they believe they still qualify. After this period, the grant will be permanently cancelled and depending on their circumstances, a fraud investigation opened,” said SASSA’s National Spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi.
Legal obligation to report all income
All beneficiaries are legally required to disclose all income at the time of application and update SASSA on any changes. Non-compliance may result in corrective action.
“Failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a violation of the Social Assistance legislation and may result in corrective action.”
Fraud prevention and ID upgrades
SASSA reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on fraud. Beneficiaries still using green barcoded ID books are urged to upgrade to smart ID cards to reduce fraud risk.
“SASSA encourages all beneficiaries to disclose any alternative sources of income and to report any additional bank accounts not previously declared.”
📞 Contact information for reviews
For reviews or assistance, beneficiaries can contact:
- Toll-Free SASSA Line: 0800 60 1011
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Or visit their nearest SASSA office
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