Ask Athalie Banner

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.

Topic: Sassa  |  Show questions and answers for all topics

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

Will SASSA back pay the grant money I was supposed to get if I lost my application number after I was approved?

SASSA does not explain how or if successful applicants whose grants haven't been paid will be back paid.

Read more

Why was my SASSA grant stopped in December and January?

SASSA suspended SRD grants to beneficiaries suspected of fraud.

Read more

If my SASSA card expires, can I still receive money but not be able to withdraw? Or will the money not be paid at all?

SASSA will not stop paying your grant money, but if you do not draw your grant for three months, the grant will lapse.

Read more

IĀ tried to register my son a month after her turned 18 for an SRD grant butĀ the website says his ID and grant is already active. What can we do?

SASSA says that if you suspect wrongdoing like that, you must immediately contact their fraud hotline at 0800 601Ā 011, and give them the ID number.

Read more

Why is SASSA not sending me an ID verification link?

It could be that they are struggling to verify your identity because you have a green ID book and your photo is not clear enough.

Read more

If SASSA approves my appeal of a social grant application, will they pay me the money for all the months since I applied?

Yes, SASSA will pay for the months you didn’t receive payment if your appeal succeeds.

Read more

Do I qualify for UIF if I continued working while receiving a SASSA pension?

No. While you can qualify for the SASSA pension if your income falls below the cut-off point, you cannot qualify for UIF if you are getting a SASSA pension.

Read more

Is it legal for an old age care facilities to take the residents' SASSA cards to buy them things not provided by the facility?

No. SASSA says unequivocally that no one should give their SASSA cards to any other person.

Read more