SASSA Payment Not Received: If your SASSA payment was not received, don’t panic just yet—but don’t ignore it either. While many delays are harmless and linked to system errors or verification backlogs, there is a more worrying reason that’s becoming increasingly common in South Africa: identity theft and grant fraud. In 2025, thousands of grant beneficiaries have reported suspicious deductions or missing payments that point directly to criminal activity.
Understanding the causes behind missing grants and knowing the right actions to take can help you protect your money and recover stolen payments. This comprehensive guide is designed for first-time applicants, long-term grant recipients, and even professionals helping others navigate SASSA issues. Whether you receive an SRD R370, Child Support, Old Age, or Disability Grant, here’s how to protect what’s rightfully yours.
SASSA Payment Not Received
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | SASSA payment not received or missing |
| Possible Cause | Identity theft or grant fraud by unauthorized parties |
| Common Grant Types Affected | SRD R370, Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant |
| How to Check Status | Via SASSA SRD portal or call 0800 60 10 11 |
| Official Reporting Channels | SASSA offices, toll-free line, WhatsApp at 082 046 8553 |
| Steps to Resolve | Verify grant status, report fraud, update details, visit SASSA branch if needed |
| Important | Don’t share ID number or OTP with anyone you don’t trust |
If your SASSA payment is not received, it’s important to act fast. It could be an innocent delay—but it could also be the result of identity theft or fraud. Check your application status, report any anomalies, and avoid sharing sensitive details. With vigilance and timely action, you can secure your funds and restore any stolen grants. Use only official SASSA channels, and never hand over your OTP to anyone.
Why Was My SASSA Payment Not Received?
If your SASSA grant hasn’t arrived, the reason could be as simple as a bank delay or as serious as theft. Here are some common reasons:
- Your banking details changed but were not updated in the system.
- Technical issues with SASSA, Postbank, or your personal bank account.
- Application status flagged due to irregularities (e.g., “referred”).
- Fraudulent activity, where someone else has accessed or redirected your grant.
In early 2025, SASSA issued a public warning about rising fraudulent claims, especially involving the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant. These scams often involve criminals using stolen ID numbers or mobile numbers to redirect money to their own accounts.
What Does “Referred” Status Mean on SASSA?
If your grant status displays the word “referred”, it means that SASSA has flagged your application for further verification. This could be due to:
- Duplicate applications under one ID number.
- Suspicious banking or contact details.
- Reports of identity theft or data mismatches.
You may not receive any payments until this status is cleared. In some cases, applicants are required to submit affidavits or visit a local branch to resolve the issue. Ignoring this status will result in continued payment interruptions.
How to Check Your SASSA Grant Status
Staying informed is the first step toward fixing a missing payment. Follow this step-by-step guide based on your grant type.
For SRD Grants (R370 per month):
- Go to the official SASSA SRD portal.
- Enter your South African ID number and mobile number used during registration.
- Wait for the One Time Pin (OTP) to arrive via SMS.
- Enter the OTP to gain access to your grant dashboard.
- Review the application status for each month—look for “approved”, “declined”, or “referred”.
For Permanent Grants (Old Age, Child, Disability):
- Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.
- Send a message to WhatsApp 082 046 8553.
- Or visit your nearest SASSA office in person with your ID.
Tip: If you’ve recently changed your phone number or banking information, this might delay updates in their system.
What to Do if Your SASSA Grant Is Stolen
If you suspect fraud or discover that someone else has claimed your grant:
Step 1: Report It Immediately
- Call SASSA at 0800 60 10 11.
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za with a full description of the issue.
- Use the official WhatsApp helpline: 082 046 8553.
Step 2: Visit a SASSA Office
Bring the following:
- Your original ID card or booklet.
- A police affidavit reporting the fraud.
- Proof of bank account ownership (like a bank statement).
Step 3: Apply for Reinstatement
SASSA may begin a reassessment process. Once fraud is confirmed, they’ll likely ask you to submit a formal reapplication or correction form, which allows for reinstatement of the stolen payments.
In most confirmed cases, affected recipients are reimbursed the full amount, often in lump sum or staggered payments.
How to Prevent SASSA Grant Fraud
Criminals often exploit weak digital practices. Here’s how to prevent being targeted:
Keep Your ID, SIM, and OTP Secure
- Never give out your ID number, bank PIN, or SASSA OTP.
- Be skeptical of calls claiming to be from SASSA—verify before acting.
Register a Personal Bank Account
- Ensure the bank account receiving your grant is in your name only.
- Avoid using accounts belonging to friends, employers, or money lenders.
Watch Out for SMS or Email Scams
- If a message promises a bonus or threatens grant cancellation, it’s likely a scam.
- Always cross-check information using official SASSA platforms.
Update Contact Details Promptly
- Log into the SRD portal to update phone or bank details.
- If you lose access to your SIM card, notify SASSA and your mobile provider.
Real Story: How One Woman Fought Back Against Grant Theft
In February 2025, Nomvula, a 56-year-old pensioner in Limpopo, visited her local ATM only to find her Old Age Grant was missing. She assumed it was a bank delay. But when she visited the SASSA office, she was told her grant had been redirected to a new account. She had never authorized the change.
Nomvula filed a police report, submitted an affidavit, and worked with a caseworker at her local SASSA office. Within three weeks, her account was verified, the fraudulent account was closed, and her grant was reinstated with full backpay.
What If I Accidentally Gave My OTP to Someone?
Unfortunately, this is a common mistake. But all is not lost:
- Call SASSA immediately to block suspicious activity.
- Visit your mobile network provider to recover or change your phone number.
- File a fraud case with your local police station and bring the affidavit to SASSA.
- Request a reinstatement or grant audit through SASSA.
Your OTP is your key to secure grant access. Once shared, unauthorized parties can change your details or reroute your money.
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FAQs About SASSA Payment Not Received
1. How long does a reinstatement process take?
Typically 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how quickly you provide supporting documentation and how complex the fraud case is.
2. Will SASSA refund stolen grants?
Yes. If fraud is proven, SASSA generally offers full backpay of stolen grants. In rare cases, they may conduct a review if there’s a dispute.
3. What if my SIM card is stolen?
You must report it immediately to your network provider and update your number with SASSA to prevent OTP interception.
4. Is the SRD grant still active in 2025?
Yes. The SRD R370 continues to be paid monthly to eligible individuals. Stay updated via the SRD portal.
5. Can I change my SASSA payment method?
Yes, and you should if your current method is insecure. Update it via the portal or at a SASSA office. Only use accounts in your name.
6. Are Postbank cards still valid?
Yes, but many users have reported technical issues. Linking a personal bank account is often faster and more reliable.
