The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in a press statement wished to reassure grant recipients that no social grants have been suspended, following public concern over the agency’s current beneficiary review process.

In the statement, SASSA clarified that the reviews are routine and legally required, aimed at verifying continued eligibility, especially in cases where beneficiaries may have additional income sources that were not previously disclosed.

“This review is not a punitive measure,” SASSA’s CEO, Themba Matlou said.

“It is meant to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds.”

Why are reviews happening?

According to Matlou, the Social Assistance Act requires all applicants to declare their full income when applying for grants and to report any changes in financial circumstances thereafter.

He emphasised that failure to do so may lead to corrective action.

“The review of social grants helps identify beneficiaries who may no longer qualify due to changes in financial, medical, or legal circumstances,” he explained.

SASSA also uses the review process to verify that grants are not being paid to deceased individuals or those who have moved without updating their records.

In some cases, reviews have uncovered individuals listed on other payroll systems, public or private, while still receiving grants.

What beneficiaries should know

SASSA confirmed that no grants are being suspended, but some payments may be temporarily delayed if a beneficiary does not respond to a review request or fails to submit updated documentation in time.

Matlou also noted that efforts are underway to improve capacity at local SASSA offices to deal with high volumes of in-person visits.

Documents needed for review

Beneficiaries contacted for a review are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA local office with the following documents:

• Valid South African ID (13-digit barcoded ID or smart card)
• Proof of income (e.g., payslips, pension slips, or affidavit if unemployed)
• Last 3 months’ bank statements (for all active accounts)
• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or letter from a local authority)
• Medical referral report (if applicable, for disability or care dependency grants)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if applicable for dependents or spouse)

• Additional documents relevant to your grant (e.g., birth certificates, school attendance records)

If a beneficiary is bedridden or immobile, a procurator can be appointed to assist.

SASSA encourages beneficiaries in such situations to contact their local office for help in arranging this.

Self-service platforms on the horizon

SASSA says it is working toward automating the review process to reduce queues and improve convenience.

Plans are underway to launch online self-service options that will allow beneficiaries to update their information and submit supporting documents digitally.

Final reminder to beneficiaries

SASSA strongly urges all affected individuals to respond promptly to any official communication.

Failure to comply may result in delays in future payments, and in some cases, suspension or legal action.

“This process is about protecting public funds and ensuring support goes to those who truly need it,” Matlou concluded.

For any questions or to confirm your review status, beneficiaries should visit or contact their nearest SASSA office.