How Long Does it Take for SASSA to Approve an Application?

The SASSA grant is a lifesaver for many households in South Africa. The SRD grant, in particular, was one of the best-performing grants in 2025. The grant was started in 2020 to combat the COVID-19 disasters. However, it was extended due to its popularity and distribution scheme.

If you have just submitted your SASSA grant application for the SRD grant, you need to wait until it is approved. But when will it be approved? This article will inform you about the exact date of your grant approval.

How Long Does it Take for SASSA to Approve an Application?

The simple answer is that you must wait at least 90 days before taking any action. The official time is three months. However, if you submitted your application more than 90 days ago and haven’t received a response, you can take further steps.

Why My SRD Grant Application is Still Pending?

If your SRD grant application is still pending after a long time, there could be several reasons for the delay. Here are some common reasons:

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Information
   If you did not fill out the application form correctly or left out important details, SASSA may need more time to verify your information. For example, if you provide the wrong ID number, bank details, or contact information, it can cause delays.

2. High Volume of Applications
   SASSA receives a large number of applications, especially for the SRD grant. During peak times, the system may get overloaded, which can slow down the approval process.

3. Verification Process
   SASSA must verify your details with other government databases, such as the Department of Home Affairs and SARS. If there are discrepancies or delays in these checks, your application may take longer to process.

4. Bank Account Verification Issues
   If you provided bank details for payment, SASSA must verify that the account belongs to you. If there are issues with the bank account (e.g., the name does not match your ID), your application may remain pending until you correct the information.

5. Outstanding Information or Documents
   Sometimes, SASSA may need additional documents or proof to confirm your eligibility. If you did not submit the required documents, your application will stay pending until you provide them.

6. System Errors or Technical Glitches
   Technical issues on the SASSA website or system can also cause delays. For example, if the system fails to process your application due to a glitch, it may remain pending until the issue is resolved.

7. Eligibility Concerns
   SASSA checks if you meet the criteria for the SRD grant. If there are concerns about your eligibility (e.g., you may have other sources of income or already receive another grant), your application may take longer to process while they investigate.

8. Appeals or Reapplications
   If you are reapplying for the grant or appealing a previously declined application, the process may take longer because SASSA needs to review your case again.

What Can You Do If Your Application Is Pending for Too Long?

If your application has been pending for more than 90 days, you can take the following steps:

1. Check Your Application Status
   Visit the SASSA SRD grant website and use your ID number to check the status of your application. This will help you see if there are any issues or updates.
2. Contact SASSA Directly
   Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 or visit your nearest SASSA office to inquire about your application. Make sure you have your ID number and reference number ready.
3. Correct Any Errors
   If you find out that there are errors in your application, such as incorrect bank details or missing documents, correct them as soon as possible.
4. Submit Required Documents
   If SASSA requests additional documents, submit them immediately to avoid further delays.
5. Follow Up Regularly
   Keep following up with SASSA until your application is resolved. Be patient but persistent.

How Does the SASSA Application System Work?

The SASSA application system is designed to help South Africans apply for social grants, such as the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant, in an efficient and organized way. 

The system ensures that applications are processed, verified, and approved according to the rules and requirements set by SASSA. 

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how the SASSA application system works:

1. Application Submission

• Online Application: Most SASSA grants, including the SRD grant, can be applied for online through the official SASSA website or WhatsApp. Applicants need to fill out an electronic form with their personal details, such as their ID number, contact information, and banking details.
• Alternative Methods: For those without internet access, applications can also be submitted via WhatsApp or by visiting a SASSA office in person.

2. Data Capture and Initial Screening

Once you submit your application, the SASSA system captures your details and performs an initial screening. This step checks for:

• Basic Eligibility: The system verifies if you meet the basic criteria for the grant (e.g., age, income, and citizenship requirements).
• Duplicate Applications: The system checks if you have already applied for the same grant to avoid duplicates.

3. Verification Process

This is the most important step in the SASSA application system. SASSA verifies your information with other government databases to ensure accuracy and eligibility. The verification process includes:

• ID Verification: SASSA checks your ID number with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm your identity and citizenship.
• Income Verification: Your income status is verified with SARS (South African Revenue Service) and other databases to ensure you qualify for the grant.
• Bank Account Verification: If you provided bank details for payment, SASSA verifies that the account belongs to you and is active.
• Other Grants Check: The system checks if you are receiving any other social grants or government support to avoid double-dipping.

4. Approval or Rejection

After the verification process, SASSA will either:

• Approve Your Application: If all your details are correct and you meet the eligibility criteria, your application will be approved. You will receive an SMS or notification confirming the approval.
• Reject Your Application: If you do not meet the requirements or there are discrepancies in your information, your application will be declined. You will receive a notification explaining the reason for the rejection.

5. Payment Process

If your application is approved, SASSA will process your payment. Here’s how it works:

• Payment Method: You can choose to receive your grant through a bank account, cash send, or the South African Post Office (SAPO).
• Payment Schedule: Payments are usually made monthly, and you will receive an SMS notification when the money is available.
• Collection: If you choose cash send or SAPO, you will need to follow the instructions provided to collect your payment.