Important warning for those who got a Sassa grant notice

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has urged beneficiaries not to ignore SMS notifications calling them in for social grant reviews, warning that a failure to respond could result in the lapsing of grants and non-payment. The agency said beneficiaries who receive an SMS must act immediately. “Upon receipt of the SMS the beneficiary must utilise the opportunity to visit Sassa offices to avoid the lapsing of the social grant and non-payment,” Sassa said.

Sassa said social grant reviews are legislated in terms of the Social Assistance Act to ensure that the correct grants are paid to “a deserving and eligible beneficiary”. Beneficiaries are required to undergo the review process to verify their continued eligibility for social assistance. The process also seeks to prevent fraud and duplicate claims.

Sassa warned that fraudulent or duplicate claims could result in the misuse of public funds, which “is an offence”. Currently, grant reviews are conducted at designated Sassa offices or service centres. However, the agency indicated that changes may be on the horizon.

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“In future, the agency may introduce online review options to help reduce congestion at physical offices and minimise travel costs for beneficiaries,” it said. Sassa also called on beneficiaries to ensure that their contact details are up to date on its system. “Having updated details will confirm the eligibility and life certification, including strengthening the communication between the beneficiary and the agency,” Sassa said. Updated contact information allows beneficiaries to receive “important notifications which affect the status of the social grant”.

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