SASSA Calls on R370 Grant Recipients to Complete Identity Checks in Person to Prevent Delays

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has issued an urgent appeal to recipients of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant who are facing difficulties with the digital verification process. The agency is encouraging those who do not have access to reliable data, smartphones, laptops, or internet connectivity to visit their nearest SASSA office for help with biometric identity verification.

Biometric checks which include fingerprint and facial recognition are now a central requirement in the SRD grant system. They are intended to confirm that applicants are who they claim to be and to reduce fraudulent claims while protecting public funds.

However, SASSA acknowledges that not all beneficiaries have the necessary digital tools or internet access to complete the process online. To address this, every local SASSA office has been equipped with on-site kiosks, official laptops, and guest Wi-Fi. Staff at these offices are ready to assist applicants to complete the verification process without needing to rely on personal devices or data.

In a statement, Acting Regional Executive Manager Xolela Mpambani emphasised that the agency’s priority is to make sure all qualifying beneficiaries receive their grant payments on schedule. She noted that incomplete biometric verification can result in delayed payments an outcome that SASSA is keen to avoid for vulnerable applicants.

The agency also highlighted that in some cases, SRD grant applications may be declined not for technical reasons but due to information from external data sources such as banking records showing that the recipient has a source of income. In such instances, beneficiaries have the right to appeal the outcome if they believe it to be incorrect.

SASSA further warned recipients to remain vigilant about fraudulent activity. Scammers are reportedly targeting grant recipients by attempting to obtain personal information under false pretences. Beneficiaries are urged not to share sensitive details with anyone and to verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent the agency.

By promoting in-person biometric verification, SASSA aims to close the gaps created by digital exclusion and to ensure that the R370 SRD grant continues to reach those who depend on it without unnecessary disruption.