SASSA denies double grant payment rumours for June

THE South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has rejected rumours claiming that double grant payments will be made in June, describing the reports as completely false and misleading.

This comes following reports that claimed that grant recipients would receive double payments next month, a message that has been spreading rapidly, particularly on social media.

In a statement issued to the media this week, the agency said it was "concerned about the mushrooming and the rapid spread of fake news and disinformation targeting the Agency and its services almost daily".

SASSA further said that the spread of such misinformation is intended to mislead, cause panic, and create false hope among beneficiaries and the public at large.

"SASSA can make it categorically clear that there has been no announcement made for double grant payment in June. These reports are untrue and should be rejected with the contempt they deserve".

The agency's spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi, urged beneficiaries not to expect any double payment in June as stated in various fake news reports.

“We appeal to our beneficiaries not to expect any double payment in June as stated in various fake news reports, particularly on social media platforms. In line with the Ministry of Finance’s Policy Statement in March, grant increases were announced and came into effect in April, and there will be another increase again in October. Any other increase not announced by credible and relevant authorities should be treated as lies," he said.

Letsatsi also dismissed reports suggesting that the agency would be introducing new rules that could potentially impact pensions starting on June 10.

"Furthermore, reports have been spreading like wildfire that SASSA has announced 'New Rules Could Affect Your Pension' from 10 June. The report has even gone further and announced various dates for different provinces. This is not an official announcement from SASSA".