SASSA Gauteng alarmed by misleading practices targeting beneficiaries
Beneficiaries are urged to remain vigilant after SASSA flagged reports of deceptive practices linked to unauthorised grant deductions.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Gauteng has raised concerns over allegations that beneficiaries are being misled into signing documents that result in unauthorised deductions from their social grants.
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According to Lungelo Mkamba, senior manager for communication and marketing in the SASSA Gauteng region, the agency noted reports – including a TikTok video – in which a senior citizen claims she was deceived into completing documents that led to such deductions.
Mkamba said the allegations are taken seriously, as they point to possible exploitation of vulnerable beneficiaries and undermine trust in the social assistance system. He emphasised that SASSA does not partner with insurance or funeral companies to enrol beneficiaries into financial products without their full knowledge and informed consent.
SASSA Gauteng continues to receive enquiries about unexplained deductions, often linked to insurance or funeral service providers. Mkamba stressed that any deductions must be lawful, transparent and based on informed consent.
In terms of Regulation 29 of the Social Assistance Act, only one deduction – not exceeding 10% of a grant – is permitted for a funeral policy issued by a registered insurer, and only with valid consent. 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 they were misled or did not consent to deductions are urged to report the matter at their nearest SASSA office. Deductions can also be disputed by sending an SMS to 34548, including an ID number and the name of the service provider. Beneficiaries are further encouraged to contact the relevant company directly to cancel any unauthorised policies.
Mkamba said SASSA Gauteng remains committed to protecting beneficiaries from fraud and unethical practices, with awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagements being strengthened to educate the public about their rights.
He urged beneficiaries to exercise caution when asked to sign documents and to seek clarity before agreeing to any arrangements related to their grants. Members of the public are reminded that SASSA operates from official offices and does not send officials door-to-door.
