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.
Why is it important to write a will?
It is the only way for you to control who should look after your children or inherit your estate.
Why hasn't SASSA paid my R350 Covid grant since May 2022?
Under the new regulations, you need to re-apply for the R350 grant.
How can I apply for the late registration of a birth certificate?
It depends during which stage of lockdown the baby was born.
Can I get permanent residency if my parent does, and I have lived in SA for more than five years?
Yes, if you are a dependent of a permanent residence holder and are aged under 21 years. But there is a massive backlog at Home Affairs.
How can I claim my deceased parent's SASSA funeral cover?
SASSA should know who the insurance company is and help you to make the claim.
Can I apply for an ID if my parent's ID is blocked?
If there is no other available parental ID but the blocked one, it could take a very long time for Home Affairs to resolve the problem.
How can you get a late registration of birth certificate and ID if you are an orphan with no family?
You need to find some proof that you were born in South Africa and that at least one of your parents was South African.
Can a fiancé claim from their deceased partner's intestate estate?
Yes, life partners "in a relationship intended to be permanent" should be regarded as spouses in terms of inheriting intestate estates.