The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has warned that approximately 210,000 social grant recipients risk suspension or permanent cancellation if they fail to disclose all sources of income. The agency is intensifying efforts to ensure grants reach eligible beneficiaries, targeting those suspected of having undisclosed earnings.
SASSA’s review process, ongoing as of July 2025, focuses on individuals who appear active in the labour market or have incomes near or above the means threshold. Beneficiaries under review must visit their nearest SASSA office to confirm eligibility. Non-compliance may lead to grant suspension, and continued failure to respond could result in permanent cancellation and potential fraud investigations.
“No grants have been suspended yet,” said the agency’s spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi. “We’ve adjusted payment schedules for those under review and provided an additional payment date.” Beneficiaries have two months to respond to review notifications, with a further one-month period post-suspension to prove eligibility. Failure to act may lead to permanent grant cancellation.
Under the Social Assistance Act, beneficiaries are legally required to report all income sources and changes in financial circumstances. Many fail to update contact details, missing critical notifications, which SASSA stresses is the beneficiary’s responsibility.
To curb fraud, the agency encourages beneficiaries to declare additional income or bank accounts and replace green bar-coded ID books with smart ID cards. “We have a zero-tolerance approach to fraud,” Letsatsi added, noting that colluding officials face disciplinary and legal action.
Affected beneficiaries should contact SASSA’s toll-free line at 0800 60 10 11, email GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za, or visit a local office for assistance.
