SASSA urges R370 beneficiaries to visit offices for biometric verification to avoid payment delay
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has called on all R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant beneficiaries who do not have access to smartphones, laptops or data to visit their nearest SASSA offices for in-person assistance with biometric identity verification.
SASSA says all its offices are fully equipped to help beneficiaries complete the process using on-site kiosks, official laptops and guest Wi-Fi.
The move is aimed at ensuring eligible applicants receive their grants on time and without unnecessary delays.
“The Agency is doing this to ensure that all qualifying beneficiaries receive their grant at the right time, to avoid unnecessary delays and eliminate frustrations,” said Ms Xolela Mpambani, Acting Regional Executive Manager (AREM) for SASSA.
Biometric verification is a key part of the SRD grant system, designed to confirm identity and reduce fraud.
However, SASSA acknowledged that many beneficiaries struggle to complete the process because they lack digital tools or connectivity.
Ms Mpambani also clarified why some applications are declined.
“Beneficiaries must note that the application of the SRD grant can be declined, whereby the system discovered that the beneficiary has a source of income,” she said.
“This is discovered through the external sources databases inclusive of financial institution (Banks).”
She added that those who are declined are not without recourse.
“The declined beneficiary has a right to appeal the decision, this happens when the beneficiary is not satisfied with the reasons stated in the system.”
SASSA further warned the public to be vigilant against scammers targeting grant recipients.
“SASSA is warning beneficiaries to protect their personal details since the scammers are on lookout for vulnerable beneficiaries. Recipients must not share any sensitive details and always verify who is asking for information,” the agency said.
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