SASSA Warns: Only Personal Numbers for SRD Applications

On Thursday, November 6, 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) announced an important warning. This was related to the SRD grant. SASSA calls all the SRD grant applicants to use their own phone numbers for the SRD grant application process.

So if you are an applicant for the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant (R370), you should read this news and take the appropriate steps right now.

Also, SASSA explains that we are strictly enforcing the SASSA application rules related to cell phone numbers and banking details.  Now every applicant has to pass the verification for both phone number and bank information to get the grant approval.

During the press release, the agency said:

“All applicants and beneficiaries must be aware that using your number will assist in monitoring, checking the progress of the application, and receiving notifications from the Agency that might need the applicant or beneficiary’s attention. 

These notifications include the messages to do the verification process. Without exercising the verification process, the application will be unsuccessful, and no grant will be paid.”

SASSA Wants to Make the SRD Application System Crystal Clear

SASSA has been dealing with continuous fraudulent grant applications. In June 2025, more than 200,000 people was flagged as fake applicants and were receiving the grant payment. However, the agency has to take a strict step to stop this. That is why they have announced that we are going to check each and every applicant’s banking information and their phone numbers.

It is now mandatory for the applicants to use a cell phone number and a bank account registered in their names.

The agency emphasizes that these measures protect applicants and ensure the right people receive the grant. SASSA warns that any attempt to bypass the rules could result in permanent disqualification from the grant program.

How Verification Works

When you apply for the SRD grant, SASSA will send a verification message to the cell phone number you provide. You must respond to this message and follow all instructions. If you ignore it, your application will fail.

Similarly, SASSA checks the banking details you submit. The bank account must match your name exactly. If it does not, SASSA will not process the payment. Only after successful verification will your grant payment be scheduled in the next pay run.

SASSA explains that the verification process is a simple but important step. It helps the agency to prevent fraud, avoid payment errors, and make sure that grants reach the rightful recipients.

Why Using Personal Numbers Matters

Using your own cellphone number has several advantages. First, it allows SASSA to send updates about your application directly to you. You will know when your application is approved, declined, or requires additional information.

Second, the number ensures that SASSA can contact you for urgent verification messages. Some applicants reported missing grant payments because they used someone else’s number or an inactive number. SASSA wants to stop these problems.

Third, using your personal number improves security. Fraudsters often use fake numbers to try to receive grants illegally. By enforcing personal numbers, SASSA can reduce fraud and protect honest applicants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

SASSA warns applicants about common mistakes that can delay grant approval:

• Using a phone number registered in another person’s name.
• Providing bank account details that do not match your ID.
• Ignoring verification messages from SASSA.
• Giving incorrect personal information during the application.

Avoiding these mistakes will make the process faster and smoother. SASSA advises applicants to double-check all their details before applying.

How to Apply Correctly

Applicants can apply for the SRD grant at the official website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za.

Once on the website, you must select your category: either South African ID Holders or Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders. Follow the instructions carefully. Fill in your personal details, bank account information, and cellphone number.

After submitting your application, watch for a verification message on your registered number. Complete the verification as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Support for Applicants

SASSA provides support for applicants who face difficulties. You can call their toll-free number at 0800 60 10 11 during working hours from Monday to Friday. Staff will help with questions about the application process, verification, and banking issues.

SASSA also urges applicants not to share personal information with third parties, promising faster approval. The agency warns that scammers are active, and some may ask for bribes or fake services. Only trust official communication from SASSA.

SASSA’s Efforts Against Fraud

Fraud in grant applications has been a major issue. Some people submit multiple applications using false details to receive more than one grant. Others use stolen identities or fake bank accounts.

SASSA’s new rules on personal cellphone numbers and bank verification aim to stop this. By enforcing these rules, the agency ensures the grant reaches the people who truly need it.

The SRD grant provides R370 per month for eligible individuals who face financial hardship due to COVID-19. This amount may seem small, but it helps families buy food, pay for transport, and cover basic needs.

Final Advice for Applicants

• Use a cellphone number registered in your name.
• Provide bank account details that match your official ID.
• Complete all verification messages promptly.
• Avoid sharing personal information with anyone outside SASSA.
• Double-check all application details before submitting.

Following these steps ensures a smooth application process. Applicants who meet all requirements can expect to receive payments on schedule.

SASSA urges all eligible South Africans to follow these guidelines carefully. The agency reassures the public that these measures protect honest applicants and fight fraudulent activities.

Applying correctly now will save you time and stress later. Make sure your information is accurate, your phone number is personal, and your bank account is correct. Then, you can receive your SRD grant without any problems.

Original source: https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/sassa-urges-use-registered-cellphone-numbers-srd-grant