What Does “Application Submitted” Mean on SASSA?

When you opt for the SASSA status check and find an outcome with the statement “Application Submitted” you need to understand what it means.

In this detailed article, I am going to explain what is the meaning behind this application status and what you should do in this phase. Whether you need to wait or you need to go for another application. Get all the answers in this post.

What Does “Application Submitted”?

This statement means “SASSA has received your SRD grant application successfully. Now one of the officials will review your application soon.”

So it means, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has received your application but there is a lot of work that needs to be done yet. The team of SASSA will check your application and cross-check your information and eligibility.

What Happens After Your Application is Submitted?

Once your application is marked as “Application Submitted,” the process is far from over. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens next:

Verification of Information

SASSA officials will thoroughly review the details you provided in your application. This includes verifying your South African ID number, contact information, and any supporting documents you uploaded. They ensure that all the information aligns with the eligibility criteria.

If any inconsistencies are found, it may delay the process or result in a declined application. Therefore, it’s crucial to double-check your information at the time of application submission to avoid potential delays.

Cross-checking with Other Databases

After verifying your information, SASSA cross-checks it with various databases to confirm your eligibility. These databases include:

• Home Affairs: To validate your identity and citizenship status.
• UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund): To check if you are currently receiving unemployment benefits.
• National Treasury and Financial Records: To ensure you are not receiving other social grants or income that disqualifies you.

This step is vital to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that only eligible individuals receive the SRD grant.

Eligibility Assessment

SASSA will then assess your eligibility based on the criteria set for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. These criteria include:

• You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee registered with Home Affairs.
• You must be unemployed and not receiving any form of income or government grant.
• You must be between the ages of 18 and 59.
• If you meet all these requirements, your application will move to the next stage.

Should You Wait or Take Action?

At this stage, patience is key. However, there are some proactive steps you can take to ensure your application progresses smoothly:

Monitor Your SASSA Status Regularly

Keep an eye on your SASSA application status through the official portal, WhatsApp, or Moya app. Status updates can help you stay informed about the progress of your application.

Ensure Contact Information is Correct

Double-check the phone number and email address you provided during the application process. SASSA may use these to contact you if they require additional information or documents.

Respond Promptly to Requests

If SASSA contacts you for further verification or additional documents, respond immediately. Delays in your response could result in your application being put on hold or declined.

Avoid Submitting Multiple Applications

Submitting multiple applications can confuse the system and potentially delay the processing of your grant. Stick to one application and follow up on its progress.

Common Delays and Issues in the “Application Submitted” Phase

Unfortunately, delays can occur during this stage. Below are some common reasons for delays and how you can address them:

Incomplete Information

If your application lacks critical information, it might remain in the “Application Submitted” phase for an extended period. Ensure that you’ve provided all the required details accurately.

System Backlogs

Due to the high volume of applications, SASSA’s system may experience backlogs. This is especially common at the start of a new grant cycle or during periods of high unemployment.

Database Errors

Errors during the cross-checking process can also cause delays. For instance, discrepancies between your application details and the records in government databases might require manual intervention.

Incorrect Banking Details

If you provided incorrect or invalid banking details, SASSA will not be able to process your payment even if your application is approved. Always ensure your banking information is accurate and up-to-date.

When Will You Receive an Update?

The duration of the “Application Submitted” phase varies. While some applications progress quickly, others may take several weeks due to the reasons mentioned above. Typically, you can expect an update within 7 to 14 business days after submission. However, during peak times, it may take longer.

If your status remains unchanged for an extended period, consider reaching out to SASSA for clarification. You can contact their helpline at 0800 60 10 11 or visit your nearest SASSA office for assistance.

Final Thoughts

The “Application Submitted” status is just the beginning of your process toward receiving the SASSA SRD grant. While the process can be slow, understanding each step and knowing what actions to take can significantly improve your chances of success.