The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has assured beneficiaries that no social grants have been suspended amid ongoing eligibility reviews currently underway.

Kempton Express reports that Sassa confirmed that while some grants may experience momentary delays during the review process, this does not amount to a suspension. The review aims to confirm eligibility, prevent fraudulent claims and ensure public funds are used responsibly.

“This review is not a punitive measure to deliberately exclude any deserving beneficiary,” says Sassa CEO Themba Matlou. “It is intended to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds.”

Why the review is happening

The review process helps SASSA:

• Confirm changes in beneficiaries’ financial, medical or legal circumstances
• Prevent grants from being paid to deceased individuals or those who have relocated without updating records
• Detect cases where individuals receive grants while appearing on other payroll systems.

Matlou says beneficiaries have a legal obligation to disclose all sources of income during their initial application and to report any changes in their financial circumstances. Failure to do so may lead to corrective action.

What should affected beneficiaries do?

Beneficiaries affected by the review process are urged to visit their nearest Sassa office with the following documents:

• Valid SA ID (green barcoded ID or smart ID card)
• Proof of income (eg, payslips, pension slips or affidavits if unemployed)
• Bank statements for the past three months for all active accounts
• Proof of residence (eg, utility bill)
• Medical referral report (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)
• Relevant documents for the grant type (eg, birth certificates for Child Support Grants).

If a beneficiary is bedridden, a procurator can be appointed to represent them. Contact your local Sassa office for assistance in appointing one.

Sassa has urged beneficiaries to comply with review requests promptly. Failing to respond to official communication may result in delays in payments, suspension or lapsing of grants, and possible legal action.

Sassa is working to automate the review process by introducing online self-service platforms to ease the burden on local offices and reduce queues.

Updated asset and income thresholds as of April 1

Older persons, disability, and war veterans’ grants:

• Single asset threshold: R1 524 600
• Married asset threshold: R3 049 200
• Annual income limit: R107 880 (single), R215 760 (married)

Child Support Grant:

Annual income limit: R67 200 (single), R134 400 (married)

Care Dependency Grant:

Annual income limit: R277 200 (married)

Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant:

R624 monthly means test remains applicable.

For more information, beneficiaries are encouraged to visit their nearest Sassa office or visit www.sassa.gov.za.

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