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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.

What can I do if someone fraudulently applied for a disability grant on behalf of someone else, and is collecting the money, without their knowledge?

The true beneficiary can officially revoke the power of attorney that the person has assumed, and report the fraud to SASSA.

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How can I get a permanent disability grant? I have not been able to work since 2018.

When you apply for a disability grant, you will undergo a medical assessment to determine whether you should qualify for a temporary or permanent grant.

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How can I remove my V-list code J status?

For V-list Code J, there are two possible appeals that you can submit to the Director-General of Home Affairs.

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If someone is paying me back for a loan, should I declare it as income when I apply for a social grant?

SASSA will likely count the repayments as income. Because the grant value works on a sliding scale, I suggest you let SASSA know when the loan has been paid off.

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I was chased from my home by my abusive husband. Now I don't qualify for an RDP house. Is there anything I can do?

Given your circumstances, you could try contacting your local housing office and ask them to help you. Depending on your circumstances, you might qualify for a different housing programme.

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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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