The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has urged all applicants of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant — currently valued at R370 — to make sure they apply using cellphone numbers registered in their own names.
In a statement issued on Thursday, SASSA said both the cellphone number and banking details are vital for the success of an application. Using a registered number allows the agency to send important updates, verification requests, and payment notifications directly to the applicant.
“All applicants and beneficiaries must be aware that using your own number will assist in monitoring, checking the progress of the application and receiving notifications that might need your attention,” the statement said.
SASSA also reminded beneficiaries that without completing the verification process, applications will not be approved and no grant payments will be made.
Verification Crucial to Prevent Fraud
According to the agency, the verification step ensures that the grant is paid to the right person and helps prevent fraudulent activities.
“When the banking details do not belong to the applicant, the system will not verify the payment,” SASSA explained. “Once the banking details have been verified and confirmed, the grant will be paid from the next pay run.”
The agency urged applicants to double-check their personal information before submitting an application to avoid unnecessary delays.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
Eligible individuals can apply for the SRD grant by visiting the official SASSA website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
Once there, applicants should select the correct option — either South African ID Holders or Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders — and follow the on-screen instructions to complete their application.
For any assistance or queries, applicants can contact SASSA’s toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11, available Monday to Friday during working hours.
Why It Matters
This reminder comes as many SRD applicants continue to face delays and verification challenges, often due to mismatched cellphone numbers or incorrect banking details.
By using the correct registered number, applicants can ensure smoother communication with SASSA and faster access to their monthly R370 payments.
