SASSA calls on R370 beneficiaries for in-person biometric verification to ensure timely payments
SASSA offices are equipped to assist R370 grant beneficiaries with biometric verification, ensuring timely payments and safeguarding against fraud.
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THE South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has called on all beneficiaries of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant who lack access to smartphones, laptops, or data to visit their nearest SASSA offices for in-person assistance with biometric identity verification.
SASSA has confirmed that all its offices are fully equipped to assist beneficiaries in completing the verification process using on-site kiosks, official laptops, and guest Wi-Fi. This initiative aims to ensure that eligible applicants receive their grants promptly and without unnecessary delays.
“The Agency is doing this to ensure that all qualifying beneficiaries receive their grant at the right time, to avoid unnecessary delays and eliminate frustrations,” said Xolela Mpambani, Acting Regional Executive Manager (AREM) for SASSA.
Biometric verification is a crucial component of the SRD grant system, designed to confirm identities and reduce instances of fraud. However, SASSA acknowledges that many beneficiaries struggle to complete this process due to a lack of digital tools or connectivity.
Mpambani also addressed the reasons behind some declined applications.
“Beneficiaries must note that the application of the SRD grant can be declined if the system discovers that the beneficiary has a source of income," she explained.
"This is discovered through the external sources databases, including financial institutions (banks).”
Importantly, those whose applications are declined are not without recourse.
“The declined beneficiary has a right to appeal the decision, which occurs when the beneficiary is not satisfied with the reasons stated in the system,” she added.
SASSA further cautioned the public to remain vigilant against scammers targeting grant recipients.
“SASSA is warning beneficiaries to protect their personal details since scammers are on the lookout for vulnerable beneficiaries. Recipients must not share any sensitive details and always verify who is asking for information,” the agency said.