The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has announced that some social grant payments for May 2025 will be delayed, affecting a specific group of beneficiaries. The agency urges those impacted to visit local Sassa offices to verify their personal details and update financial information to avoid suspension of payments.
Why Are May 2025 Grant Payments Delayed?
According to Sassa, the delay is part of a broader strategy to improve the integrity of the social grant system. The agency has identified that some beneficiaries are using alternative forms of identification rather than the standard 13-digit South African ID number.
Following a recent review conducted with the Department of Home Affairs, it was discovered that many of these individuals do possess valid ID numbers, but these were not recorded correctly in the Sassa system.
“These clients must present themselves at Sassa offices so their 13-digit ID numbers can be correctly recorded,” said Sassa.
What Happens If You Don’t Verify Your Details?
Beneficiaries who fail to complete this verification process risk having their grants suspended. If unresolved, the grant may eventually lapse.
“Failure to do so may result in suspension of grants, and if uncorrected, the grant may eventually lapse,” the agency warned.
Who Is Affected?
You may be affected if:
- You receive a social grant using alternative ID formats
- Your grant was flagged during a recent bulk means test by Sassa
- You have unreported income or changes in financial status
Sassa Means Test Follow-Up
Sassa recently conducted a bulk means test to identify beneficiaries who may have undisclosed income in alternative bank accounts. These individuals will also be required to verify their eligibility in person.
The agency cited Regulation 30 of the Social Assistance Act, which allows Sassa to review grants if there is reason to believe a beneficiary’s financial situation has changed.
“A person might have qualified for a grant at the time of application but may no longer be eligible if their financial situation has improved,” Sassa explained.
Strengthening the Fight Against Fraud
Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi confirmed that, beginning in the 2025/2026 financial year, the agency will intensify efforts to ensure all grant recipients regularly verify their eligibility.
“We will identify clients monthly and request that they come into our offices to verify their personal details,” said Letsatsi.
He added that this process is not only aimed at ensuring compliance by beneficiaries, but also at rooting out internal fraud.
“We will also investigate possible collusion by Sassa officials who may be working with outsiders to defraud the system,” he added.
What Beneficiaries Should Do
- Visit your nearest Sassa office immediately if you’ve received notice or suspect you’re affected
- Bring your 13-digit South African ID and proof of income or banking details if requested
- Do not delay — failure to comply can result in suspension or cancellation of your grant
- Avoid third-party interference — complete the process yourself to protect your personal information
Final Word
While these measures may be inconvenient in the short term, they are designed to ensure that the right people receive the right support. Sassa urges all beneficiaries to cooperate fully with the verification process to maintain the integrity and fairness of South Africa’s social grant system.
For official updates and grant support, visit: https://www.sassa.gov.za