How to Claim SASSA Funeral Benefits?
Death is an unavoidable part of life, and arranging a proper funeral can be financially challenging, especially for low-income families. In South Africa, the mortality rate stands at 12.03 deaths per 1,000 inhabitants (Statista), making funeral expenses a common burden.
To support vulnerable families, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides financial assistance to cover funeral costs if the deceased was a registered SASSA grant beneficiary. This support helps families conduct dignified funeral and burial ceremonies without the additional financial strain.
This guide will explain who is eligible for SASSA funeral benefits, the policies involved, and how to apply for financial assistance.
What are SASSA Funeral Benefits?
SASSA funeral benefits are financial aids provided to the families of deceased grant recipients. The support comes in the form of an unclaimed grant payment, which the beneficiary was entitled to before their passing.
SASSA does not offer a separate funeral grant, but families can claim the last due payment of the deceased’s grant to assist with funeral expenses.
Who is Eligible for SASSA Funeral Benefits?
To claim the funeral benefits, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- The deceased must have been a registered SASSA grant recipient.
- The deceased should not have received their last SASSA payment before passing away.
- The claimant must be the next of kin, legal representative, or a family member responsible for the funeral arrangements.
- The claim must be submitted within six months of the death.
SASSA Funeral Benefit Policies
Before claiming the funds, it is crucial to understand SASSA’s policies regarding funeral benefits:
- No Separate Funeral Grant: SASSA does not provide a distinct funeral grant but allows the deceased’s last unpaid grant payment to be used towards funeral expenses.
- Six-Month Claim Period: The claim for the outstanding grant must be submitted within six months after the beneficiary’s death. Failure to do so results in forfeiture of the funds.
- Payment Order: The funds are usually paid to the person who handled funeral expenses or the next of kin.
- Bank Account Closure: If the grant was paid into the deceased’s bank account, the family must apply for an unclaimed grant payment before the account is closed.
Required Documents for Claiming SASSA Funeral Benefits
To process the claim, the claimant must submit the following documents:
- Certified Death Certificate of the deceased (issued by the Department of Home Affairs)
- Certified Copy of the Deceased’s ID
- Certified Copy of the Claimant’s ID (Next of Kin or Legal Representative)
- Proof of Relationship with the deceased (e.g., Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate)
- Proof of Funeral Costs (Funeral invoices or receipts)
- Proof of Bank Account Details (if the claimant prefers direct deposit)
- Grant Payment Card or Bank Statement showing the last grant transaction (if available)
- SASSA Completion Form for unclaimed benefits (collected from a SASSA office)
How to Apply for SASSA Funeral Benefits?
Follow these steps to claim the funeral benefits from SASSA:
Step 1: Gather All Required Documents
Ensure you have all the necessary documents listed above before approaching SASSA to avoid delays.
Step 2: Visit the Nearest SASSA Office
Take all the documents and visit your nearest SASSA office or designated service center.
Step 3: Fill Out the Unclaimed Benefits Form
Request and complete the SASSA unclaimed benefits application form from an officer at the service desk.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Hand over the application form along with the required documents to the SASSA official for verification and processing.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Payment
- SASSA will verify the information and process the claim, which may take up to 30 days.
- If approved, the funds will be released through the preferred payment method (bank deposit or SASSA payment centers).
- If rejected, SASSA will provide reasons for denial, and the claimant may appeal if necessary.
Alternative Funeral Assistance Programs
If SASSA funds are insufficient, families can explore other government and non-governmental assistance programs:
- Municipal Funeral Assistance: Some municipalities offer burial assistance for indigent families.
- Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant: Eligible families can apply for SRD grants to cover urgent financial needs.
- Private Funeral Insurance: If the deceased had funeral cover, the family can claim the insurance payout.
- Religious and Community Organizations: Some religious groups and NGOs offer financial help for funeral arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does SASSA directly pay funeral homes?
No, SASSA does not pay funeral parlors directly. The unpaid grant amount is given to the claimant who handled the funeral expenses.
Can I claim funeral benefits for a deceased family member who was not a SASSA grant recipient?
No, only the unpaid grant of an eligible SASSA beneficiary can be claimed. Non-beneficiaries do not qualify for any SASSA funeral benefits.
How long does it take to receive the funds?
Processing time varies, but generally, it takes up to 30 days after submission.
What happens if no one claims the funeral benefits?
If no one claims the unclaimed grant within six months, the funds are forfeited and returned to the government.
Can funeral benefits be claimed online?
Currently, SASSA requires claimants to visit their nearest office to submit claims in person. Online applications are not available for funeral benefits.
Conclusion
Losing a loved one is emotionally and financially challenging. SASSA provides unclaimed grant payments to help eligible families cover funeral costs. Understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process ensures that you can claim the benefits smoothly and timely.
For more information, visit your nearest SASSA office or contact the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who may need assistance in claiming SASSA Funeral Benefits.
