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Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email info@groundup.org.za.

Is it possible for me to go check on my mother's RDP/BNG house application on her behalf?

Yes, as long as you have a document authorising you to do so.

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I didn't know my government house was approved, and when I checked I saw someone else is staying there.

Go to the municipality with your proof of application and ID, tell them what happened, and ask them to help you.

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Why did my Workmen's Compensation pension suddenly stop in 2024? How can I get the money?

It could be that you did not submit a "Confirmation of Life" in time, as per the notice issued by Acting Commissioner, Farzana Fakir in 2023. You should try to reach the Commissioner to rectify this.

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As a permanent residence holder, will I still qualify for citizenship by naturalisation if I get divorced?

To qualify for citizenship by naturalisation, you must have had a permanent residence permit for at least five years.

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If I was a baby when my father died, do I qualify for the Government Employees Pension Fund even if my mother was the only one nominated as a beneficiary?

Dependents under the age of 22 qualify for GEPF benefits. If you were not nominated, the GEPF has the right to overrule the list of beneficiaries to include you.

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Are there any government housing projects I could qualify for if I previously owned a home?

Yes, you may still qualify for the Community Residential Units and Housing Programme if you have previously benefitted from a government housing programme or owned property.

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When I tried to apply for a SASSA grant, I was told it is already active. What should I do?

It is possible that someone is fraudulently using your details to collect a social grant. You should contact SASSA as soon as possible.

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What should I do if I forgot the cellphone number I used to apply for my government house?

As your old cellphone number will be in the housing database, you should visit the municipal office where you made your application to update your details.

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If my SASSA grant is paid directly into my bank account, do I need to get a black card?

No. You only need to get a black card if you have been using a gold card to withdraw your grant money.

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I have tried everything to confirm my identity (without my biological parents). Now a laboratory has requested I do another DNA test, but I can't afford it.

Perhaps you should get legal advice to see if you can circumvent a second DNA test.

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