If you’ve applied for a grant from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), especially the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant, you’re likely wondering how to check your SASSA status. Knowing your status helps you stay informed on whether your application has been processed, approved, declined, or is still pending. This article is the most detailed and up-to-date guide to understanding every aspect of SASSA status checking, including step-by-step tutorials, status definitions, tips to fix issues, fraud warnings, and frequently asked questions.
What Is a SASSA Status Check?
A SASSA status check shows the progress of your grant application with the South African Social Security Agency. Whether you applied for the SRD R350 / R370 grant, child support grant, old age pension, or disability grant, the status check will tell you whether:
- Your application has been approved
- It is still pending review
- It has declined
- A decision has been made, and your payment details are ready
Checking your status regularly is essential because it helps you stay up to date on payment dates and whether you need to take action (such as updating your details or lodging an appeal).
Why Checking Your SASSA Status Matters
Your SASSA status tells you where your application stands. Here are some reasons why this check is important:
- It helps you know when your payment will be made.
- It shows if there are missing or incorrect details that need fixing.
- It helps you avoid delays caused by mistakes or missing verification.
- It lets you understand why an application was declined and whether you can appeal.
For many South Africans, especially those relying on the SRD grant for living expenses, knowing their status provides peace of mind and helps withfinancial planning.
How to Do a SASSA Status Check: Step-by-Step Methods
There isn’t just one way to check your SASSA status. Below are the official and alternative methods most people use.
1. Online Status Check (Official Government Website)
This is the most precise and updated method.
Steps:
- Go to the official SASSA SRD status check page:
- → https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Application Status”.
- Enter your 13-digit South African ID number.
- Enter the mobile number you used when applying.
- Click Submit.
- Your current application status will be displayed instantly.
This method shows the most accurate result because it’s directly connected to the government database.
2. SASSA Status Check via WhatsApp
If you prefer messaging over websites, WhatsApp is a convenient option.
How to check via WhatsApp:
- Save the official SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553
- Open a chat with that number.
- Type and send: Status
- Follow prompts to enter your ID and cellphone number.
- You’ll receive your status in the chat.
This method works well if you don’t want to use the website’s data.
3. Using USSD (No Internet Needed)
For people without internet or smartphones:
- Dial: *134*7737#
- Follow on-screen prompts.
- Enter your ID number.
- You will receive an SMS with your SASSA status.
This is handy in areas with limited connectivity or no data.
4. Phone Call to SASSA
If you want to speak to a person:
- Call the toll-free SASSA help line: 0800 60 10 11
- Follow the voice instructions to request a status update.
- Be ready with your ID number.
Phone lines can be busy, especially during high-demand months, so patience is key.
5. In-Person at a SASSA Office
If online or phone options don’t work:
- Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID.
- Ask a representative to check your status.
This method is useful if your application shows errors that need to be fixed in person.
What Different SASSA Status Messages Mean
After you check your status, you’ll see one of the following replies. Knowing what they mean helps you understand the next steps:
Status MessageMeaning
| Approved | Your grant application has been accepted. You will get payment soon. |
| Pending | Your application is still under review and being verified. |
| Declined | Your application was rejected — details may be wrong or you don’t qualify. |
| Approved, Not Paid | Application is accepted, but the payment hasn’t been processed yet. |
| Identity Verification Pending | SASSA hasn’t verified your ID with Home Affairs. |
| Referred | SASSA is reviewing your application with additional checks. |
Each message has a specific action you might need to take — such as providing more information or appealing a declined outcome.
Common Reasons Why Status Is “Pending”
It’s normal for a status to remain pending for some time, especially when many applications are being processed.
Possible causes:
- Many applications being reviewed at once.
- Bank verification not complete.
- External checks with tax or employment databases.
- Small mistakes in your application details.
If your status stays “pending” for weeks, contact SASSA support or visit an office to confirm nothing is blocking your application.
What to Do If Your Status Is Declined
A declined status doesn’t always mean no hope. Here’s what you can do:
- Review your application details – check ID number and phone number.
- Confirm eligibility requirements – sometimes small financial details impact qualification.
- File an appeal – SASSA allows you to appeal a decision if you think it’s wrong (usually online via the appeals portal with your ID).
- Contact SASSA support for guidance.
Some declines happen because of incorrect income details or mismatched bank details — both of which you can fix before reapplying or appealing.
Tips for a Smooth SASSA Status Check
To make sure you receive accurate and quick results:
✔ Always use the same mobile number you registered with.
✔ Double-check your ID number when submitting.
✔ Keep your phone switched on for SMS updates.
✔ Save the official WhatsApp number to avoid scams.
How SASSA Pays Approved Grants
Once approved, SASSA distributes funds through several methods:
- Bank account deposit (if you provided banking details)
- Postbank collection
- Cash collection at partner stores such as supermarkets (depending on grant type).
Payment dates vary by grant type and month, so checking your status frequently helps you know exactly when you’ll receive funds. Wirst SEOToolzz for more information
Recognizing and Avoiding SASSA Scams
Unfortunately, scammers often target people waiting for grants. Here’s how to stay safe:
Never share your ID number with anyone asking by SMS/WhatsApp
Never pay anyone to speed up your SASSA application
Ignore links claiming to check status outside official portals
Official communication from SASSA will never ask for bank PINs or money. If you receive suspicious messages, report them to SASSA or fraud helplines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I check someone else’s SASSA status?
Yes, only if you have their ID number and mobile number and have permission to use it. Privacy matters — don’t check without consent.
Why does my status show “Approved but Not Paid”?
This means your application has passed, but SASSA is still processing the payment. Once complete, you’ll get an SMS with details.
What if the website is slow or not loading?
Try the WhatsApp method or USSD code if the official site is slow. Many people use these due to heavy traffic.
Does SASSA status checking cost money?
No — official status checks are always free. If someone asks for money, it’s a scam.
SASSA Status Check 2026 and Beyond – What You Should Know
There are updates to grant values and how the system works. In 2026, the SRD grant amount was reported to be R370 per month, and additional measures, such as E-KYC verification, were introduced to enhance system security and accuracy.
Whether it’s the SRD grant or another social grant, SASSA continues to improve its status checking systems and outreach to help beneficiaries stay connected and informed.
