The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has issued an urgent call for beneficiaries of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant who lack smartphones, computers, or internet access to visit their nearest SASSA offices for in‑person biometric identity verification to ensure timely grant payments.
Biometric verification is a mandatory identity check in the SRD grant process intended to confirm that grants are paid to the right people and reduce fraud.
However, many beneficiaries have struggled with online verification due to limited access to digital devices or data.
To address this, SASSA has equipped all local offices with on‑site biometric kiosks, official laptops and guest Wi‑Fi so that applicants can complete the process without needing their own technology.
“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 for SASSA.
Beneficiaries who do not complete biometric checks risk delayed payments, particularly if their identity status remains incomplete in the agency’s system.
Why This Matters
The R370 SRD grant is a critical monthly support for millions of South Africans, many of whom rely on this assistance for basic living expenses.
Since the start of the biometric identity requirement, delays and access issues have been widely reported, particularly among those without digital connectivity.
By encouraging in‑person verification, SASSA aims to bridge the digital divide and help beneficiaries avoid frustrating hold‑ups in grant payment schedules.
Important Tips for Beneficiaries
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Bring your original South African ID when visiting a SASSA office for verification.
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Check your SRD status online before heading to the office, if possible.
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If your application has been declined, you have a right to lodge an appeal through the official SASSA appeals process.
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Be on the lookout for scammers and never share your personal or bank details with unofficial contacts.
With SASSA’s push for beneficiaries to visit local offices for biometric identity verification, eligible applicants without digital means now have a clear path to complete their checks and avoid delays in receiving the R370 SRD grant.
Timely compliance will help ensure financial support continues uninterrupted for those who need it most.
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