SASSA goes ahead and cancels fraudulent Covid-19 SRD grant payouts

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The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that it has made a major crackdown on fraudulent Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant payments.

As such, in a move to ensure that financial support reaches only deserving South Africans, SASSA confirmed that it will be automatically cancelling all fraudulently acquired R370 SRD grants.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SASSA RECIPIENTS

SASSA has asked those who have had their grants cancelled not to panic.

The agency said that affected beneficiaries are allowed to reapply. “This step is just part of the Agency’s efforts to combat fraud and safeguard public funds,” said SASSA spokesperson, Senzeni Ngubeni.

SASSA is urging South Africans to protect their personal information, especially identity numbers, as these are often used by fraudsters. “We encourage all beneficiaries to ensure their identity numbers are not shared with strangers to avoid aiding fraudulent activities,” said Ngubeni.

HOW TO SPOT ISSUES WITH YOUR GRANT

Beneficiaries checking their grant status and seeing “referred” are urged to act quickly. According to SASSA, this status means the system suspects fraudulent activity on the account. Immediate contact with SASSA can help resolve the issue.

For assistance, beneficiaries can contact SASSA on their toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 during weekdays or via WhatsApp at 082 046 8553.

DELAYS CAUSED BY FREQUENT CHANGES

SASSA has also cautioned beneficiaries against frequently changing their banking details and contact numbers, as this could delay payments.

The Agency assured the public that it has skilled officials handling SRD grant cases. “This team is dedicated to addressing concerns and ensuring the grants are paid to eligible beneficiaries.

“If you suspect fraudulent activity on your grant or have questions, reach out to SASSA immediately. Protecting your personal information and promptly addressing issues can prevent disruptions to your grant payments,” the agency said.

The Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was specifically designed in 2020 to help South African citizens, refugees, asylum seekers, and special permit holders who are between 18 and 60 years old and face financial hardship.

This grant is available to those who do not receive any other social grants, are not contributing to or eligible for Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) payments and have no financial support from any other source.

The SRD grant is administered under Section 32 of the Social Assistance Act, 2004 (Act No. 13 of 2004), with approval from the Minister of Finance.