SASSA new ID verification process For July 2024
Beneficiaries who want to change their mobile number or who have been identified by SASSA as needing verification are expected to contact SASSA to request identity verification. They will be sent an SMS link to an internet page. They are then expected to take a photo of their face and send it back. They will then be notified if the process was successful or not.
- For beneficiaries who do not have smartphones which can take photos, or who do not have access to the internet, this can be a problem, says Raiters.
- Asked what will happen to the SRD beneficiaries who do not complete the ID verification process, Letsatsi said, “Their grants will remain suspended”.
- He did not say how many people might be affected. The number of SRD grant beneficiaries varies between 7.5-million and 8.5-million as recipients are subjected to monthly means tests.
- Even some beneficiaries who do have the technology to complete the verification process are concerned that this additional step will delay their grant from being paid on time in June.
Sassa SRD Verification Update Raises Concerns Over Accessibility and Delays
The Sassa SRD grant sees millions of South Africans receive R370 every month. Now, Sassa has introducted a new ID verification method but this has raised concerns about potential exclusion for some applicants.
The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) offers a vital lifeline for millions of South Africans in need. Their Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant provides temporary financial assistance to those struggling to meet their basic needs.
Sassa has introduced a new verification process for SRD grant recipients, sparking concerns from stakeholders and beneficiaries alike. This measure, intended to ensure grant distribution reaches the intended individuals, utilizes facial recognition technology.
New Verification Process Raises Concerns
Sassa’s verification system involves randomly selecting applicants for additional checks. These individuals receive two SMS messages, with the second containing a link for facial recognition verification.
The link remains valid for only 72 hours, raising concerns for those without immediate access to smartphones or internet connectivity.
A recent GroundUp report highlights the struggles faced by hundreds of SRD grant applicants due to the new verification process.
Here Are Ways To Track SRD Grant Applications
How To Check Your Grant Status Online
- Visit the Sassa SRD grant website.
- Scroll down to ‘Application status’.
- Select ‘Click here to check online’.
- Fill in the required fields.
- You should then be able to see the status of your R350 grant application.
How To Check Your Status On The Phone
- Call 0800 60 10 11.
- Follow the prompts.
How To Check Your Status On WhatsApp
- Add 082 046 8553 to your phone.
- Send a message to that number.
- Follow the instructions.
Sassa has reminded applicants that their system is processing millions of applications, so it may take some time before their social grant application status is available.
