Answer to a question from a reader

Why is SASSA demanding my late husband's death certificate when he died twenty years ago?

The short answer

SASSA needs proof, but Home Affairs should help you.

The whole question

I am 73 years old. My husband passed away nearly 20 years ago. When applying for Sassa they asked for his death certificate, which I do not have anymore. Why do they need a death certificate of my late husband that passed away so many years ago?

The long answer

Thank you for your email about SASSA wanting your late husband’s death certificate which has been lost, since your husband passed away almost 20 years ago.

It must seem absurd to you that they need the death certificate when so many years have passed since his death, but unfortunately SASSA cannot take anyone’s word for anything – they do require proof.

You can apply for a copy of the death certificate at your nearest Home Affairs office by completing form B1-132. Home Affairs does not say whether there is a fee involved in issuing a copy of the death certificate, but there may well be.

If you need more advice, you can contact the Black Sash on their advice hotline. The number is 072 66 33 739. If you have no airtime, you can send them a “please call me”.

Answered on Jan. 27, 2020, 10:28 a.m.

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