SASSA Urges Full Support for August Grant Reviews to Protect Vulnerable Groups

The reviews come at a time when SASSA is facing increased public scrutiny due to congestion at local offices and delays in service delivery during previous review periods.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has issued a strong call for collaboration and leadership involvement as it prepares to implement extensive social grants reviews in the August 2025 payment cycle, a critical effort aimed at preserving the integrity of South Africa’s social welfare system.

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou has appealed for an “all hands-on deck” approach across the agency’s operational and management tiers to ensure that the review process for identified beneficiaries proceeds smoothly, efficiently, and with dignity.

“We are intent in our drive to assist all our clients to have their grants reviewed as seamlessly as possible. No one should leave our offices without being assisted or burdened with back-and-forth,” Matlou stated.

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Grant Review Push: No Room for Tardiness

The reviews come at a time when SASSA is facing increased public scrutiny due to congestion at local offices and delays in service delivery during previous review periods. To address this, Matlou is urging senior managers and executives to step out of boardrooms and engage directly with beneficiaries.

He emphasized that their physical presence at offices will not only boost operational capacity but also show SASSA’s commitment to serving the public in times of peak demand. This visibility is particularly important in addressing concerns about the fourth payment date and ensuring timely, professional handling of enquiries.

“The ongoing social grants reviews have tested our capacity, and we are proactively responding to operational shortcomings we identified in recent months,” Matlou noted.

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Payment Dates and Operational Readiness

The August grant payments are scheduled to be disbursed between 5–7 August 2025. While most beneficiaries will receive their grants without issue, SASSA is paying close attention to those selected for review. These individuals must comply with the review process to prevent the suspension or delay of their payments.

Matlou has assured the public that SASSA has enhanced its systems and personnel planning in preparation for this period and is working to avoid any bottlenecks that may disadvantage vulnerable beneficiaries.

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Why Grant Reviews Matter

The grant review process is a critical tool in protecting the government fiscus, according to Matlou. It ensures that grants are received only by those who meet the eligibility criteria. This not only upholds fairness in the system but also prevents fraud and mismanagement.

“Social grant reviews are essential to maintaining the trust and sustainability of the grant system. They allow us to update personal information and remove ineligible claims, ultimately safeguarding public resources,” he added.

These reviews align with SASSA’s broader strategy to strengthen compliance, transparency, and accurate beneficiary data.

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What Beneficiaries Need to Know and Bring

Beneficiaries selected for review have been urged not to panic but to respond promptly by visiting their nearest SASSA local office. To complete the review process, they must bring the following documents:

• Valid South African ID (13-digit green barcoded book or smart ID card)

• Proof of income, such as payslips, pension documents, or an affidavit if unemployed

• Bank statements from the last three months for all active accounts

• Proof of residence, such as a utility bill or letter from a local council

• Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable)

• Death certificate for deceased spouse or dependents (if applicable)

• Supporting documents based on the grant type:

  • Birth certificates and medical reports for Child Support Grants

  • School attendance records for Foster Care Grants

  • Disability-related documents for Disability Grants

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Public Advisory and Contact Details

SASSA has also warned against non-compliance, stressing that failure to participate in the review process may result in temporary suspension or termination of the grant. Beneficiaries have been advised to stay informed via official channels and ignore misinformation on social media.

For accurate updates and assistance, SASSA encourages beneficiaries to:

• Visit the website: www.sassa.gov.za

• Call the toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11

• Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za

Additionally, a support desk has been set up within SASSA to assist with queries and escalate concerns related to the review process and upcoming payment dates.

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A Message of Assurance and Reform

Matlou concluded by affirming that the grant review exercise is not an attempt to deny anyone their due support but a way to enhance the credibility and reach of the social grants system.

“Our mission is to ensure that no deserving beneficiary is left behind and that every cent from the public purse reaches its rightful recipient. Our review campaign is not about exclusion—it’s about integrity and fairness,” he stated.

With over 18 million South Africans relying on social grants for daily sustenance and security, SASSA’s approach this August will be closely watched as a measure of its capacity to blend compassion with accountability.