SASSA Grant Approved But Not Paid (2025 Guide)

Introduction – SASSA Grant Approved

Many South Africans face the frustrating situation where their SASSA grant is approved, but the money does not reflect in their account. This can be stressful, especially for those relying on grants like SRD R350, child support, or old-age pensions.

In this guide, we’ll explore why this happens, what steps you can take immediately, and practical tips to ensure you receive your money, with examples and insider tips not widely shared online.

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1. Verify Your Grant Status

Even if you received approval notification, it’s crucial to check the grant status officially:

• SASSA SRD Website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
• SASSA Balance Check USSD: Dial 120 (for Postbank grants) or 134 (for SRD grants) depending on your grant type.
• Mobile Apps & WhatsApp: Some beneficiaries can check their SRD grant via official WhatsApp numbers.

Tip: Keep screenshots of your approval messages—they may be needed if you have to escalate.

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2. Common Reasons Approved Grants Aren’t Paid

a) Bank Verification Delays

• If your banking details were incorrect, outdated, or your bank account could not be verified, the grant may be delayed.
• Solution: Verify your bank account on the SASSA website. Update the details if needed.

b) Postbank Cash Send Issues

• Many grants are distributed via Postbank Cash Send. Delays can occur due to:
  • Incorrect phone numbers.
  • Agent or system backlog.
• Solution: Confirm your registered phone number and check your SMS notifications for payment reference codes.

c) Technical or System Glitches

• SASSA’s systems sometimes experience delays, especially during peak periods.
• Solution: Wait 2–3 days, then check your account again.

d) Fraud/Multiple Applications

• If multiple applications exist under your ID, SASSA may freeze the payment pending verification.
• Solution: Contact SASSA via their official email or call center to resolve duplicates.

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3. Step-by-Step Action Plan if Payment Is Missing

Step 1: Gather Your Proof

• Approval notification SMS/email.
• ID copy and bank account info.
• Any screenshots of failed payment notifications.

Step 2: Contact SASSA Through Official Channels

• SASSA SRD Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
• Email: srd@sassa.gov.za
• Local SASSA Offices: Check your province.

Pro Tip: Always document the date, time, and representative you spoke to.

Step 3: Update or Verify Bank Details

• Use the SASSA SRD online portal to confirm bank account numbers and branch codes.
• For Postbank Cash Send, verify your mobile number registered with SASSA.

Step 4: Escalate If Needed

• If after 7–10 days you still haven’t received your payment, escalate to:
  • SASSA Regional Manager (contact via email/official phone)
  • SASSA complaints line: 0800 60 10 11

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4. Prevent Future Payment Issues

• Keep your ID and banking details updated
• Register for SMS notifications for all grants
• Avoid multiple applications or using different accounts
• Monitor SASSA announcements during peak payment periods

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5. Alternative Methods to Access Your Grant

• Postbank Cash Send: Some people have to physically collect funds if the transfer fails.
• Bank Transfers: Ensure your bank account is correctly linked for SRD payments.
• Family/Guardian Collection: Only with official authorization for dependent grants.

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6. What NOT to Do

• Don’t fall for social media scammers promising to “release your grant immediately.”
• Don’t pay anyone to “unlock” your SRD payment. SASSA grants are free and government-regulated.
• Avoid sharing your banking PINs or OTPs online.

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7. Why Your SASSA Payment Might Take Longer

• High application volumes: During new grant cycles, millions apply simultaneously.
• Verification backlogs: SASSA cross-checks applicants against other databases to prevent fraud.
• Technical issues with banks: Some banks take 1–3 extra days to process government payments.

Conclusion

Not receiving your SASSA grant even after approval is frustrating, but most delays will get a fix by:

1. Checking your status properly
2. Verifying or updating banking details
3. Contacting SASSA through official channels
4. Escalating when needed

By following these steps, you can ensure your payment arrives safely and avoid common pitfalls like scams or duplicate applications.