Clarification issued on 17-million SASSA SRD applications for 2024

The South African Social Security Agency has denied claims that it received 17 million SASSA SRD applications in September 2024. The agency is responsible for disbursing the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant to the neediest residents in the country living below the poverty line.

However, last week, The South African reported that only one-third of 2024 SASSA SRD applications were successful in their bid for government support. Credible sources quoted SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi in a Newzroom Afrika report. It was inferred that the massive spike in applications was due to an uptick in ‘chancers and fraudsters’ trying to gain access to the SASSA grant system.

2024 SASSA SRD APPLICATIONS

However, following widespread reports of 17-million applications, the agency is now changing its tune, reports The Citizen. SASSA issued a statement this week saying: “SASSA wishes to clarify that the figure of 17-million applications represents the cumulative number received since the last major application process in April 2022.” To clarify, that’s not just in the month of September 2024 alone, as implied by Letsatsi.

“We want to emphasise that 17 million reflects the overall applicant pool, not just the applications in a single month. We evaluate all applications on a monthly basis, meaning that all valid applications from previous months are also considered,” clarified SASSA. Somewhat confusingly, the agency also advises beneficiaries that they don’t need to reapply each month. It is this assessment of applications and reapplications that adds to the large overall workload. However, following a 2024 SASSA SRD application online, you must still confirm your SRD status through the official website.

KNOW YOUR SASSA SRD STATUS

October SRD will be paid between Friday 25 October and Tuesday 29 October 2024. Funds may take between 2-3 days to reflect in your account. Here’s a quick guide to the following responses you may receive from SASSA regarding your SRD status:

• COMPLETE – Your application is received but is not approved yet. There is nothing more you need to do here.
• PENDING – SASSA is in the process of verifying your application. No further action is needed.
• APPROVED – Congrats, SASSA has approved your grant application for the month. The agency will inform you when your next payment date is.
• BANK DETAILS PENDING – If SASSA does not have your banking details or a chosen payment method, you need to update this.
• REAPPLICATION PENDING – This means you need to submit a reapplication for the SRD grant (this must be done every month).
• DECLINED – SASSA has declined your application because you did not meet all the criteria. The reason why will be listed.
• CANCELLED – If you have a job, no longer meet the requirements and the agency believes you receive other income. To clear any issues around potentially fraudulent activity – like your account being hacked – email: referred@sassa.gov.za