The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has responded to public concerns regarding delays in the distribution of social grants.
Grant payments are not delayed, SASSA assures
In a statement released on Monday, 14 July 2025, SASSA clarified that all approved grants remain active and that no payments have been suspended.
The clarification follows a surge in confusion over the timing of grant payments. SASSA confirmed that it is currently conducting a nationwide review of beneficiary eligibility.
According to the agency, this is a legal requirement under the Social Assistance Act to ensure that only qualifying individuals continue to receive financial support.
As explained by SASSA, the review process began in April 2025 and targets beneficiaries flagged for possible changes in financial, marital, or employment status.
“These are targeted reviews to ascertain the eligibility of beneficiaries for whom we’ve obtained information that their circumstances have changed,” the agency stated.
What you must know about the review process
While most beneficiaries continue to receive their grants between the 2nd and 5th of each month, a fourth payment date was added for individuals under review.
These recipients are paid on the 4th day of the month following the completion of their assessments.
SASSA also addressed operational issues affecting access to its offices, noting a marked increase in foot traffic during July.
“We are constantly monitoring the numbers, and we will adjust our plans accordingly to ensure that it remains within our capacity,” the agency said.
To verify applicants’ employment and income claims, SASSA now works closely with credit bureaus. Information from these institutions helps the agency identify discrepancies, such as when beneficiaries claim to be unemployed during grant applications but present a different financial status to obtain credit.
The agency reminded beneficiaries of their legal obligation to report any changes in income or personal circumstances after being approved for a grant.
Failure to comply could result in the suspension or permanent cancellation of the grant. SASSA may also reclaim funds that were incorrectly paid.
On the issue of communication, SASSA acknowledged that many beneficiaries may not have received notices due to outdated contact details.
Over 140,000 SMS messages have been sent as part of the notification process. Beneficiaries who did not receive any such notice and are still being paid on normal dates are not required to take further action.
SASSA stated it is working on improving service delivery by expanding office hours, hiring more staff, and introducing digital self-service options.
Plans are also underway to implement biometric identification systems to combat fraud.
The review process, SASSA stressed, is not only a legal duty but also part of cost-saving measures directed by the National Treasury.
These conditions are meant to ensure that public funds are used efficiently and reach only those who meet the required criteria.
