Reasons Why SASSA Grant Applications Are Declined
Is your SASSA grant status showing something unexpected? If your SRD R350 grant or any other SASSA benefit isn’t approved yet, it’s okay—this guide will help you understand why and what to do next. With the right steps, your application can be successfully reviewed and activated.
We’ll walk you through the common reasons, how to check your status, and how to respond effectively to keep your grant moving in the right direction.
What It Means If a SASSA Grant Is “Not Approved” or “Paused”
Sometimes, an application may show as “not approved” or “under review.” This simply means SASSA is making sure your information matches its records and eligibility rules.
If your grant is temporarily paused, it means SASSA needs to confirm an update in your details.
Both outcomes are normal parts of the process and are often resolved with quick actions from your side.
You can check your real-time grant status here: SASSA SRD Status Check
Top Reasons Why SASSA Applications Need Review
Here are the most common and easy-to-fix reasons a SASSA grant may show “not approved” or “pending”.
1. Your Income Information Was Recently Updated
If your income has changed or was reported from another source, your grant may be placed under review.
Solution: Submit updated income proof if your current income qualifies under the SASSA threshold. You’re allowed to reverify at any time.
2. Some Documents May Be Missing or Incomplete
Sometimes, blurry uploads or expired documents cause delays in verification.
Solution: Double-check that your documents are clear, current, and match your ID. You can easily re-upload them online or take them to your nearest SASSA office.
3. You’re Already Receiving Another Form of Assistance
If SASSA sees you’re receiving UIF, NSFAS, or another social benefit, your grant will be reviewed for eligibility.
Solution: If that support has ended or was misreported, provide supporting documents showing your eligibility for the SRD grant.
4. Details Don’t Match with Home Affairs Records
If there’s a typo in your name, ID number, or date of birth—or if you’re listed as “deceased” due to a system mismatch—SASSA will pause the application until it’s confirmed.
Solution: Visit your local Home Affairs office to update your records, then resubmit your details to SASSA for review.
5. Your Bank and ID Details Aren’t Aligned
To protect your payments, SASSA requires that your bank account match the name and ID on your application.
Solution: Log in to your SASSA profile and update your banking information to match your official ID.
6. A Duplicate Application Was Detected
If multiple applications were submitted with the same ID or phone number, the system may pause all of them until the real one is verified.
Solution: Ensure you only have one active application. Contact the SASSA helpline for help merging or updating your record.
7. Your Application is in a System Review Cycle
At times, SASSA runs scheduled checks or updates, which may temporarily hold applications.
Solution: Wait a day or two, then recheck your status. If needed, reach out via the helpline for a progress update.
| Common Reasons Why SASSA Grant Applications Are Declined | ||
| Reason | Explanation | Suggested Action |
| Income Exceeds Limit | Applicant’s earnings are above the eligibility threshold | Submit income verification if the situation has changed |
| Incomplete or Mismatched Documents | Missing, unclear, or inconsistent documents | Re-upload clear and correct documents |
| Receiving Another Grant | Applicant already benefits from UIF or another government support | Submit proof if other benefits have ended |
| Details Don’t Match Home Affairs | Errors in ID, name, or birthdate, or marked as deceased | Visit Home Affairs to update records |
| Banking Details Don’t Match | ID does not match the registered bank account | Update banking information on the SASSA portal |
| Duplicate Application Detected | Multiple applications submitted with the same ID or contact info | Keep one clean application, and call the helpline if flagged |
| System Recheck or Update | Temporary pause for verification or scheduled update | Check again later or wait for auto-correction |
What to Do If Your SASSA Grant Shows “Not Approved”
Here’s a simple plan you can follow to get things sorted quickly and positively:
Step 1: Check Your Grant Status
Use the official SASSA portal: Check Status Online
Enter your ID number and phone number. The reason for the delay or pause will appear on the screen.
Step 2: Update Your Application Info
Ensure your name, ID, address, and banking details are correct. Clear any mismatches between your documents and your personal information.
Step 3: Submit a Reconsideration Request (For SRD Grants)
If you’re confident that you’re eligible for the R350 SRD grant, you can file a reconsideration request easily:
Attach new or corrected documents with a short explanation, and SASSA will take another look.
Step 4: Contact or Visit SASSA for Extra Help
Call 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free) for real-time support, or visit your nearest SASSA branch.
The staff is always ready to guide you and help you get your grant processed.
How to Keep Your SASSA Grant Active Going Forward
To avoid delays in the future, follow these quick tips:
- Keep your ID and banking details consistent
- Upload clear and recent documents
- Use a single application per grant type
- Notify SASSA when your personal or financial situation changes
- Check your status every month for updates
These steps help ensure your grant remains active and error-free.
FAQs About Reasons Why SASSA Grant Application Declined
Why does my SASSA status say not approved?
It could be due to updated income, mismatched documents, or bank account issues. All of these can be fixed.
Can I appeal if I believe I still qualify?
Yes! You can appeal within 90 days using the reconsideration page.
How long does it take to resolve a declined status?
Once updated, most applications are processed in 60 to 90 days, or sooner if documents are complete.
Can I receive other grants and the SRD together?
The SRD grant is income-tested. If other support has ended, submit proof to SASSA and request a review.
Will SASSA notify me when my grant is ready?
Yes! You’ll receive an SMS or see your updated status online.
Conclusion: Your Grant Is Still Within Reach
Having your SASSA grant paused or pending is just a part of the system making sure everything matches. It’s not a rejection, but rather a chance to confirm your eligibility and strengthen your application.
Take the time to review your details, upload any needed documents, and reach out for help if needed.
SASSA is here to support you, and with a few simple actions, your grant approval is absolutely possible.