The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced a major update that will impact how grant beneficiaries verify their identity and maintain their grant status. Starting from 5 May 2025, SASSA will introduce a compulsory biometric enrolment and identity verification process for clients who use alternative forms of identification, not the standard 13-digit South African ID number.
This new rule aims to enhance the security of social grants, improve system integrity, and strengthen measures against fraud.
Who Must Enrol for Biometric Verification?
The mandatory biometric process applies to:
- New SASSA applicants without a South African ID
- Existing clients making changes to their personal information or undergoing reviews
Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA Spokesperson, confirmed that the rollout follows Regulation 13(1) of the Social Assistance Act and is critical to preventing fraudulent activities.
“This initiative is about ensuring that the right person receives the right social grant at the right time and place,” Letsatsi said.
If you are checking your SASSA status in May 2025 or applying for a new grant, you may need to complete biometric enrolment as part of the process.
How SASSA Is Preparing for a Smooth Rollout
To ensure readiness across all provinces, SASSA’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) team, in partnership with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), has trained ‘super-users’ in each region.
These super-users are responsible for training local staff through a Train-the-Trainer program, ensuring that every SASSA office is fully equipped by 5 May 2025.
SASSA also plans to deploy additional officials at service points to support the biometric enrolment, helping reduce waiting times for clients.
Impact on SASSA Status Checks and Grant Applications
Grant beneficiaries using alternative IDs should be aware:
- Future SASSA status checks may require biometric confirmation
- New applications and reviews will include biometric data verification
- Failure to complete the biometric process could delay grant approval or renewal
SASSA emphasized that the system upgrades are part of their commitment to safeguard social grants and to protect the most vulnerable citizens.
Key Takeaways for Grant Beneficiaries
- If you use an alternative ID (not a SA ID number), prepare for biometric registration starting 5 May.
- Make sure your information is updated and ready for verification when checking your SASSA status.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office early to avoid delays.
For more information on how to check your status, visit SASSA SRD Status Check and stay updated on official announcements.
Thank you for this step up cause I was recently scammed out of my 370 for April tymebank consultant stole my money and I have no idea when I will or if I will receive my money
We are so sorry you had to experience such an unfortunate situation
I am 67 ys old. I have a South African id. Currently receiving old age pension Do I have have to go your Sassa offices to update . Most people are confused with the media coverage. Thank you
Yes you have to visit the nearest SASSA office