Sassa is urging SRD grant beneficiaries without digital access to visit their nearest office for biometric identity verification assistance to avoid grant delays.
Image: File
THE SOUTH African Social Security Agency (Sassa) is urging beneficiaries of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant who lack access to digital tools to visit their nearest Sassa office for assistance with biometric identity verification.
Sassa offices are equipped with kiosks, official laptops, and guest wi-fi to help beneficiaries complete the verification process.
"All qualifying beneficiaries must receive their grant at the right time, to avoid unnecessary delays and eliminate frustrations," said Xolela Mpambani, Acting Regional Executive Manager for Sassa.
Biometric verification is a crucial component of the SRD grant system, designed to confirm identities and reduce instances of fraud. However, Sassa acknowledges that many beneficiaries struggle to complete this process due to a lack of digital tools or connectivity.
Sassa also reminded beneficiaries that applications can be declined if income sources are detected through external databases, including financial institutions. Beneficiaries who are declined are not without recourse, as they have the right to appeal the decision if they are not satisfied with the reasons stated in the system.
The agency warned recipients to be vigilant and protect their personal details, as scammers are targeting vulnerable beneficiaries.
"Sassa is warning beneficiaries to protect their personal details since scammers are on the lookout for vulnerable beneficiaries. Recipients must not share any sensitive details and always verify who is asking for information," the agency said.