Gauteng SASSA has raised an alarm over allegations that some beneficiaries are being misled into signing documents that result in unauthorised deductions from their social grant payments.

SASSA stated that the concerns arise from reports, including a widely circulated social media video in which a senior citizen alleged she was deceived into signing documents that led to deductions linked to insurance or funeral policies.

The agency has described these allegations as serious, warning that such practices may exploit vulnerable beneficiaries and undermine confidence in the social assistance system.

“The agency has reiterated that it does not partner with insurance or funeral companies to enrol beneficiaries into financial products without their full knowledge and informed consent.”

“According to SASSA, any deductions from social grants must comply with the law and be clearly authorised by the beneficiary.

“In terms of Regulation 29 of the Social Assistance Act, only one deduction of no more than 10 per cent of a grant is permitted for a funeral policy issued by a registered insurer, and only where valid consent has been provided.”

SASSA emphasised that no deductions are allowed on child-related grants, including the child support grant, foster child grant, temporary disability grant and care dependency grant.

Beneficiaries who suspect unauthorised deductions are encouraged to report the matter at their nearest SASSA office for investigation.

They may also dispute deductions by sending an SMS to 34548, including their ID number and the name of the service provider.

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The agency has urged beneficiaries to contact service providers directly to cancel any policies that were not authorised.

“The agency continues to intensify awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements to educate beneficiaries about their rights and to prevent fraud, misinformation and unethical practices,” said SASSA.

SASSA has cautioned the public to exercise vigilance when approached to sign documents and to seek clarity before agreeing to any financial arrangements linked to their social grants.

The agency reminds the communities that its services are provided through recognised offices and that officials do not conduct door-to-door visits.

“Through these measures, SASSA Gauteng aims to safeguard beneficiaries and ensure that social grants remain a reliable source of support for vulnerable individuals and households,” concluded SASSA.