How to Claim SASSA Funeral Benefit: Complete Guide

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers a funeral benefit to qualifying individuals who receive SASSA grants.

This benefit helps ease the financial burden on families during a difficult time.

This guide will explain everything you need to know about claiming the SASSA Funeral Benefit, including who qualifies, the required documents, and the application process.

Who Qualifies for the SASSA Funeral Benefit?

The SASSA Funeral Benefit is available to South African citizens who are receiving one of the following SASSA grants:

  1. Older Persons Grant
  2. Disability Grant
  3. Foster Care Grant
  4. Child Support Grant

It’s important to note that the deceased beneficiary must have been receiving their SASSA grant at the time of death for the benefit to be payable.

What Documents Do I Need to Claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit?

To claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit, you will need to gather the following documents:

  1. Death Certificate: This is a certified copy of the death certificate issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
  2. South African ID Card of the Deceased Beneficiary: You will need the original ID book (green book) of the deceased.
  3. Your ID Card (the Person Claiming the Benefit): You will need your original South African ID book to prove your identity.
  4. Proof of Relationship to the Deceased (if Applicable): If you are not the spouse or biological child of the deceased, you will need to provide documentation proving your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.
  5. Receipt or Invoice Showing Funeral Expenses: You will need original receipts or invoices that detail the funeral expenses incurred.

How to Claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit

There are two ways to claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit:

  1. In-Person at a SASSA Local Office: This is the most common way to claim the benefit. Here’s what you need to do:
    • Find your nearest SASSA local office using the branch locator tool on the SASSA website.
    • Visit the office during their operating hours and take a queue ticket.
    • When your number is called, inform the SASSA representative that you are there to claim the Funeral Benefit.
    • Submit all the required documents mentioned above.
    • The SASSA representative will process your claim and provide you with an estimated timeframe for receiving the payment.
  2. By Phone: You can also claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit by calling the SASSA toll-free number at 0800 117 669. Be sure to have all the required documents ready, as the call centre agent may ask you for details from them.

How much is the SASSA Funeral Benefit?

The current SASSA Funeral Benefit amount is R12,000.

Is there a deadline to claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit?

There is no official deadline to claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit.

However, it is recommended that you submit your claim as soon as possible after the death of the beneficiary.

What happens if my claim is rejected?

If your claim is rejected, you will receive a notification from SASSA explaining the reason for the rejection.

You can then address the issue and resubmit your claim.

Can someone else claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit on my behalf?

Yes, someone else can claim the SASSA Funeral Benefit on your behalf.

However, they will need your written authorization and a copy of your South African ID book.

What if I lose the death certificate?

If you lose the death certificate, you can apply for a certified copy from the Department of Home Affairs.

There is a fee associated with obtaining a replacement death certificate.