The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, a lifeline for many South Africans, has been plagued by delays in November 2024, leaving countless families in financial distress.
Beneficiaries approved in October 2024 are still waiting for their R370 payments, with no clear resolution in sight.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) attributes the delays to extended verification processes but has yet to provide definitive pay dates. Let’s break down the reasons behind the delays and their impact.
SRD Grant Payments Delays
SASSA’s Verification Processes
SASSA’s spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi, confirmed that stricter verification measures were introduced due to rising cases of fraud. These checks include identity verification, fraud investigations, and payment schedule adjustments.
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Although these measures aim to protect the integrity of the grant system, they have led to substantial delays for legitimate beneficiaries.
Payment Run Adjustments
SASSA removed several approved beneficiaries from its October payment run as part of its verification process.
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While this action was intended to curb fraudulent claims, it left many recipients in financial limbo, awaiting their funds without a clear timeline.
Impact
Financial Struggles
For households relying on the SRD grant, the delay has been devastating. Beneficiaries like Monique Mtembu and Alvina Swartz shared how the lack of payment has caused immense stress, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities for their families.
These grants are often the sole source of income for many, making the delays a critical issue.
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Uncertainty
Even after completing previous identity verification steps, beneficiaries are facing new delays. Some reported that payment dates initially scheduled for late October were removed without explanation, leaving their financial situations precarious.
Fraud Prevention Challenges
While SASSA’s intention to prevent fraudulent claims is valid, the process has inadvertently penalized genuine beneficiaries.
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The system prioritizes thorough checks over immediate disbursement, which delays essential support for vulnerable families. The lack of timely communication from SASSA has only worsened frustrations.
Verification Steps Causing Delays
| Verification Step | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Identity Verification | Confirms beneficiary identity against official records. |
| Fraud Investigation | Blocks suspicious accounts to prevent misuse. |
| Payment Run Adjustments | Alters payment cycles based on verification outcomes. |
Calls for Improvement
Organizations like #PayTheGrants and affected individuals have called for immediate changes to avoid future delays. Some suggested improvements include:
- Clear Timelines: SASSA must provide accurate payment schedules for approved beneficiaries.
- Streamlined Procedures: Simplify verification for individuals who have already been vetted.
- Better Communication: Regular updates on payment statuses can ease frustrations.
The SRD grant is meant to be a safety net for South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens, but delayed payments undermine its purpose.
Swift action from SASSA, including better communication and faster verification, is essential to restore trust in the system and ensure timely support for those in need.
I would enjoy to received the R370.00 amownd,that I never received since the beginning prommis.
Is srd grant approved or not
Hi sir. Were so strgyring out or plan for as the forieng in dis country SA to find 370.00
I want to do business
I want to do business
I didn’t resive my sassa grand for November
I didn’t reseve my sassa grand for November.
Good day Srd Grant we are not getting money from October antil know I am not working I was dipending on that grant garvement plz fix it this thing so that can eat December like arethere people kunzima shem asazi sizothathani sihlanganisenani nkosi uwe owaziyo
I got declined this month and dont know for what reason because i have been a recipient throughout the year and their reason for that is that i am “nsfas registered” this isnt right because most of us depend on this money its not much but it makes a difference
Yoh I’ve just got declined and I’ve been getting it I don’t even have that sauce of income they’re talking about i rely on it and child support grant yoh I’m shattered 😪 😭 💔
By no 4eceiving the srd 350 put a lot of strain amongst us 🤞🤞
My nephew has made this identity verification, call and went to sassa offices but with no help since October.He has been told to wait for an sms which doesn’t seem that he will ever receive and it’s being more than five months that he hasn’t be paid.He is frustrated cause they always tell him to wait for this sms when he call or visit sassa offices.
Hello Henwood Sibeko,
Have you talked to senior officers?