The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) introduced the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant during the Covid-19 pandemic to provide much-needed assistance to vulnerable individuals. However, despite being approved for the grant, SASSA status check can be frustrating for some recipients as they sometimes do not receive payment dates promptly. While missing or incorrect banking details are often the primary culprits, several other factors contribute to delays in R350 grant payments. These include the workload on SASSA and occasional technical glitches within the SASSA system.
Why the grant is approved but Payments are Missing,
The R350 grant has been a lifeline for millions of unemployed South Africans. It bridges the gap for those who remain ineligible for other SASSA grants. However, the journey from approval to payment date can be a lengthy one, leaving recipients anxious and uncertain.
Incorrect Banking Details
One of the most common reasons for delayed SASSApayment dates is incorrect or missing banking details. If you’ve been approved for the R350 grant but haven’t received a payment date, consider updating your banking information. SASSA encourages recipients to visit their SRD website and update their details to fast-track payments. If you don’t have a bank account, I will recommend you to open a new one. Having your own account ensures that you take ownership of your funds and facilitates smoother grant disbursements.
Cashsend Option
Initially, there were teething issues with the Cashsend payment option when the grant was introduced. However, SASSA has resolved these issues, and Cashsend remains a viable payment method for eligible recipients.
High Demand and Processing Times
SASSA received an overwhelming number of applications for the R350 grant. By the end of January, over 13.5 million applications had flooded in, with more than 716,000 applicants being graduates. The agency approves between 7.4 million and 7.8 million applications each month. The sheer volume of requests contributes to processing delays.
Exceeding Means Test Criteria
One potential reason for delayed R350 grant payments is having a bank account balance that exceeds the means test criteria. To avoid this, ensure that your bank balance remains below the specified threshold, and refrain from receiving large payments recently.
Incorrect Contact Details
While rare, incorrect contact details can also contribute to payment delays. Always verify that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date to prevent any communication gaps.
Additional Verifications by SASSA
Occasionally, SASSA may require further verification of your documents or other details. Keep an eye on your registered phone number for any notifications related to additional verification.
Technical Glitches in the SASSA System:
In addition to the reasons mentioned earlier, payment delays may also occur due to technical issues within the SASSA system. Fortunately, if the delay is caused by a technical glitch, it typically resolves automatically within a few hours.
These were some of the common factors contributing to delayed payment dates.
Solutions to Expedite Payments even when Grant is Approved
Update Your Banking Details
If you’ve been approved for more than a month and still lack a payment date, take action. Visit SASSA’s SRD website and ensure your banking details are accurate. This step can significantly speed up the payment process. You can follow the steps written below
Log in to the SASSA services web portal at SASSA Services.
Navigate to the banking details section.
If you haven’t provided your banking details yet, add your bank account information and select “Bank” as your payment method.
If you’ve already submitted your bank details, double-check for any errors. Correct any inaccuracies in the account number.
Save your updated bank details.
Allow Time for Processing
After updating your details, allow up to 7 days for the system to process the changes.
Revisit the portal to check your status and payment dates. The issue should be resolved.
Remember, accurate banking details are very important for timely grant disbursements. Stay informed and take proactive steps to ensure a smoother payment experience.
Verify Your Bank Balance
If your banking details are accurate, check your bank balance.
Ensure that your balance falls below the minimum SASSA eligibility limit.
Review transactions from the previous month. Look for any unusually large transactions.
Exceeding Limits
If your balance or previous transactions exceed the limits, this could be the cause of the payment date issue.
If these transactions are part of your regular income, you may not receive payments.
However, if they result from other reasons and do not reflect your true income, consider contacting SASSA.
Update your Contact details
If your bank details are accurate and there are no transaction-related issues, consider checking your contact information. Sometimes, outdated or incorrect contact details can lead to communication gaps.
Here’s what you can do:
Log In to the SASSA Services Portal:
Visit the SASSA services Portal.
Verify your identity by providing your 13-digit South African identity number and the 6-digit Application ID (AppID) issued by SASSA during your application or reapplication.
Note that you can submit only one request to update your contact details within a 24-hour period.
Update Your Contact Details:
If your information needs correction, update your cellphone number and/or email address.
After making changes, allow up to 7 days for the system to reflect the updates in your account.
Remember, accurate contact details ensure timely notifications and smoother communication with SASSA
Contact SASSA to Identify the Exact Reason
If you’ve already verified your banking details, ensured they meet the criteria, and confirmed your contact information, yet still face payment delays, consider other factors. The workload on SASSA plays a significant role, as processing payments for millions of recipients takes time, especially during peak periods.
For precise insights into the delay, reach out to the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11. A SASSA representative will request your identity card number and may seek additional information for verification. Once verified, they will explain the exact reason behind the payment date delay and provide an estimate for your next payment.
If phone calls aren’t your preference, consider visiting your nearest SASSA office. Remember to bring your identity document for verification. SASSA ensures that grant-related information is shared only with the rightful grant recipient.
Alternatively, you can also contact SASSA via WhatsApp at their number: 082 046 8553.
Remember, SASSA is committed to assisting you through various channels, whether it’s phone calls, office visits, or digital communication.
The Road Ahead
President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that the R350 SRD grant will be extended and improved. While the grant has been a vital safety net, discussions around a Basic Income Grant continue. The R350 grant has demonstrated its impact, not only providing immediate relief but also contributing to education outcomes and overall well-being.
Remember, your financial well-being matters, and SASSA is committed to making the process smoother for all recipients. Keep an eye on official announcements and stay connected to reliable sources for updates.
