The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) disburses various grants to eligible citizens.
Applying for these grants can be a lifeline for many South Africans, and naturally, applicants are eager to know the status of their application.
If you’ve checked your status and it says “SASSA Pending Status,” this article will guide you through what it means and potential solutions.
What Does SASSA Pending Status Mean?
A SASSA Pending status on your application means that your application has been received but not yet processed or approved.
SASSA conducts various verification checks before granting any benefit.
These checks include: verifying your identity with the Department of Home Affairs, cross-referencing your ID number with other government databases like the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), and assessing your eligibility based on income and other factors.
How long does SASSA pending status take?
Unfortunately, there’s no set timeframe for how long a “Pending” status might last.
Processing times can vary depending on the workload at SASSA and the complexity of your application.
Can I check my SASSA status online?
Yes. You can conveniently check your SASSA application status online by visiting the official SASSA website.
You’ll need your South African ID number and mobile phone number to initiate the status check. SASSA will send a one-time PIN (OTP) to your phone for verification.
What if my SASSA application gets rejected?
If your SASSA application is rejected, you’ll typically receive an SMS notification with a reason for the rejection.
You can then rectify any errors or provide missing information and reapply for the grant in the following month.
How do I contact SASSA?
There are several ways to contact SASSA.
You can call their national toll-free number at 0800 601 160 or visit your nearest SASSA local office in person.
SASSA also has a regional WhatsApp line at 060 604 1166, but response times might be slower compared to phone calls.
How to fix a SASSA Pending Status
While you can’t directly influence SASSA’s processing time, here are some steps you can take if your application seems stuck in “Pending” status for an extended period:
- Double-Check Your Application: Ensure all the information you provided in your application is accurate and complete. Typos or missing details can delay processing.
- Verify Bank Details: If you’re applying for a grant that requires bank deposits, ensure you’ve submitted the correct bank account information. Incorrect details will prevent successful disbursement of funds.
- Contact SASSA: If you’ve verified your application details and the status remains “Pending” for an unreasonable time, consider contacting SASSA. Explain your situation clearly and politely. While they might not be able to expedite the process, they can offer insights into potential delays.