When people in South Africa apply for social grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), sometimes their applications get declined. This can happen for several reasons, like not meeting the eligibility criteria or not providing the right documents. Having a SASSA status declined means that the person will not receive the financial assistance they were hoping for, which can be very stressful and challenging, especially for those who rely on these grants to support themselves and their families.
In this article, I will show you how to get out of this frustrating situation and get back your SASSA SRD R350 payments. Also, there are three most common SASSA statuses, Status Failed, Status Declined, and Status Pending.
What is SASSA Status Declined?
When your SASSA application status is marked as “declined,” it means your application for the SASSA R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has been rejected. This can happen for several reasons, typically related to eligibility criteria or errors in your application. Here are some common reasons why your application might be declined:
Identity Verification Issues: If the personal information you provided doesn’t match the records at the Department of Home Affairs, your application will be flagged for identity verification failure.
Existing Benefits: If you are already receiving another SASSA grant, unemployment insurance benefits, or financial aid from NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme), your application will be declined. The SRD grant is intended for individuals without other forms of government assistance.
Income Criteria: SASSA checks your financial status, and if they identify any alternative income sources exceeding R595 per month, your application will be rejected.
Age Restrictions: Applicants must be between 18 and 59 years old. Applications from individuals outside this age range are automatically declined.
Employment Status: Being employed in a government institution disqualifies you from receiving the SRD grant, as it indicates a stable income source.
Fraud Prevention: If there’s any suspicion of fraudulent activity, such as discrepancies in the information provided or a history of fraud, your application will be declined.
If your application is declined, you have the right to appeal the decision within 90 days. You can do this by visiting the SASSA website and following the instructions to request reconsideration, where you can correct any errors or provide additional information to support your claim.
What to Do Next for SASSA Status Declined?
If your SASSA grant application status is marked as “declined,” it means your application was not approved due to specific reasons. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:
1. Identify the Reason for the Decline
First, you need to understand why your application was declined. Common reasons include:
- Identity Verification Issues: Your personal information doesn’t match the Department of Home Affairs records.
- Existing Benefits: You are already receiving another SASSA grant, UIF benefits, or NSFAS support.
- Income Criteria: You have alternative income sources exceeding R595 per month.
- Age Restrictions: You are not within the age range of 18 to 59 years.
- Employment in Government: You are employed in a government institution.
- Fraud Prevention: There are suspicions of fraudulent activity or discrepancies in your information.
2. Verify and Correct Your Information
After identifying the reason:
- Identity Verification: Ensure that all personal information matches official records. Correct any discrepancies by updating your information and resubmitting necessary documents.
- Income and Benefits: Confirm that you do not receive other forms of financial aid that would disqualify you. If there are errors in the records, contact SASSA to correct them.
- Documentation: Double-check that all documents submitted are complete and accurate. Make sure to include current and correctly filled forms.
3. Submit a Reconsideration Appeal
If you believe your application was incorrectly declined, you can request reconsideration:
- Visit the SASSA SRD Website: Go to the SRD section of the SASSA website (SRD Status Check).
- Reinstate Your Application: Select “reinstate my canceled grant application” from the options.
- Provide Required Information: Enter your mobile number and ID number to receive an OTP (One-Time Pin). Verify this pin and submit the reason for reconsideration.
- Supporting Documents: Attach any new evidence or corrected information that supports your appeal.
4. Check the Results
After submitting your appeal:
- Keep Track: Regularly check the status of your appeal on the SASSA website or by contacting their helpline.
- Timely Response: Ensure you submit your reconsideration request within 90 days of the initial decline.
F.A.Q
Why was my SASSA application declined?
Your application might be declined due to reasons like identity verification failure, existing benefits, income above the threshold, incorrect information, or age restrictions.
How can I find out the specific reason my SASSA application was declined?
You can check the reason for the decline by logging into the SASSA SRD website or contacting their helpline for detailed information.
What should I do if my application is declined due to incorrect information?
Correct the errors in your application and resubmit it. Ensure that all personal details and documents are accurate and up to date.
Can I reapply for the SASSA grant after being declined?
Yes, you can reapply. First, correct the issues that led to the decline, then submit a new application or request reconsideration through the SASSA website.
How do I appeal a declined SASSA application?
To appeal, visit the SASSA SRD website, select the reconsideration option, provide the required information, and submit supporting documents within 90 days of the decline.
What happens if my reconsideration appeal is also declined?
If your appeal is declined, you may contact the Appeals Tribunal for further review. Ensure all supporting documents and corrected information are included in your appeal.
