If you receive any grant from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), keeping your banking details accurate is vital to avoid payment delays.
Whether you’ve switched banks, closed an old account, or prefer a different payment method, SASSA allows you to update your banking details online in just a few steps. This 2025 guide explains how to do it safely and correctly.
Why You Might Need to Change Your Banking Details
There are several reasons why beneficiaries may want to update their banking information:
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You’ve opened a new bank account.
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Your previous account was closed or compromised.
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You want to move from a cash send or retail collection to direct bank deposit.
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You noticed an error in the previously submitted details.
Whatever the reason, updating your information ensures SASSA deposits your grant into the correct, verified account each month.
Before You Start: What You’ll Need
To change your banking details online, make sure you have:
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Your South African ID number (13 digits).
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The cellphone number you used to apply for your grant.
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Your new bank details — account number, bank name, account type, and branch code.
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Access to your phone to receive a one-time password (OTP) or secure link.
If any of these details have changed (especially your cellphone number), you’ll need to contact SASSA first before you can update your banking details.
Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Banking Details
Step 1: Visit the Official SASSA Website
Go to the official SRD website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za. This is the only legitimate SASSA platform for grant applications and updates. Avoid links from unofficial sites or social media pages.
Step 2: Enter Your ID Number
Scroll down the homepage until you find “How do I change my banking details?” Enter your ID number in the space provided.
Step 3: Receive an SMS from SASSA
After submitting your ID, SASSA will send an SMS to your registered phone number. The message will contain a secure link unique to your application.
Step 4: Follow the Secure Link
Click on the link in the SMS. It will take you to a secure page where you can submit your new banking information. Be sure to complete the process on a trusted device with a stable internet connection.
Step 5: Enter and Confirm Your New Bank Details
Provide your updated account number, bank name, and account type. Double-check every field before submitting. Incorrect information will delay payments.
Step 6: Wait for Verification
Once submitted, your new details will go through a verification process with your bank. This may take a few working days.
SASSA will notify you once the account has been successfully verified and linked to your grant.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Verification typically takes three to seven working days, depending on your bank’s processing time. During this period, your payment may still be sent to your previous account if verification isn’t complete by the cutoff date.
If You Can’t Access the Portal
If you no longer have access to the cellphone number registered with SASSA or experience technical issues, you can still update your details in person.
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Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID and a bank confirmation letter or statement.
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Call the SASSA helpline: 0800 60 10 11 for guidance.
They’ll assist you with manual verification and updating your information.
Common Issues and Solutions
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No SMS received: Check your network coverage or restart your phone. Retry the process after a few minutes.
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Verification failed: Ensure the account holder name matches your ID. Joint or third-party accounts may not be accepted.
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Portal not loading: Try again later during non-peak hours or use a different browser.
Security Precautions
Protect your personal and banking information at all times.
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Only use the official SASSA website.
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Never share your OTP or banking password.
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SASSA will never ask for your PIN or login credentials.
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Report any suspicious SMS or emails immediately to your bank or SASSA.
Final Thoughts
Updating your SASSA banking details online in 2025 is a simple yet crucial process that ensures your grant payments arrive safely and on time.
By following the official steps, verifying your information, and avoiding scams, you can maintain uninterrupted access to your funds.
For the latest updates or to check your payment status, always use the official portal — https://srd.sassa.gov.za.