SASSA SRD Status Declined
Even if your SASSA SRD grant application gets declined, you can still contest the decision. During your SASSA Status Check, you may encounter the “SASSA status declined” message, although you qualify according to eligibility standards. SASSA grant applications may be declined because of processing errors, missing information, and system overloads.
Positive news exists as the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) allows you to contest the decision you received. Through this procedure, you receive another opportunity to have your application reviewed to obtain the R370 grant payment you deserve.
This article explains the reasons behind SASSA application rejections and outlines the procedures for appealing, along with actions to take when your appeal remains pending.
What is the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA)?
The Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) is a judicial body established to ensure the fair and impartial resolution of disputes related to social assistance benefits. ITSAA provides individuals dissatisfied with decisions made by social assistance authorities an opportunity to have their cases reviewed by an independent entity.
The tribunal operates separately from the agencies that administer social assistance, ensuring that appeals are assessed objectively, without bias or influence. This process is crucial for upholding the rights of beneficiaries, offering a transparent and accessible means to challenge decisions and seek justice in matters affecting their social welfare.
Submit an SRD Grant Appeal for Reconsideration to the Independent Tribunal
After receiving the rejection from the SASSA regarding your SRD grant application, you need to prepare for the appeal. Here is the complete and simple guide to appeal online.
1- Review your Application Details on the SRD DSD Appeal Electronic Platform
It is a very important first step in the appeal process that you must check your details on the SRD application. You must ensure that the details you have written on the SRD DSD Appeal Electronic Platform are accurate and current. Never sleep on this step, as it can delay and even cause rejection of your grant application.
2- Update Your Details (If Needed)
If you need to update any personal information on your SRD application, visit the official SASSA website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/contact. Enter your 6-digit Application ID (AppID) and 13-digit South African ID numbers to verify your identity. Once verified, you can easily update or change your details through the platform.
3- Accept the Declaration and Consent Documents
After updating your details, you’ll be automatically redirected to the appeal page. You’ll need to review and accept all the declaration and consent documents on this page to proceed.
4- Submit the SASSA Grant Appeal
Click the submit button once you’re ready to appeal for your declined SASSA grant. A confirmation message will appear on the screen to let you know your appeal has been successfully submitted.
Check the SASSA Appeal Status to Make Sure You Are Approved
Need to check your SASSA appeal status daily after submitting a reconsideration request? Don’t worry; staying updated on your SRD grant appeal status is crucial to ensure you’re on track for approval. If you’re unsure how to check your SASSA SRD appeal status online, here’s a clear and simple guide to help you through the process.
- Head to the SASSA appeal and appeal status check portal at “https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/appeal.”
- Begin to provide your South African ID number in the first space. This is your Identity Number, printed on the front side of your ID card.
- The second requirement is the South African or mobile phone number that the applicant used during the SRD grant application.
- Now click on the send PIN button.
- Wait for the PIN to be received on your phone via SMS.
- Verify the PIN and get your appeal status.
Why does SASSA decline an SRD Grant Application?
Here are the main reasons you must avoid if you want to get approval for the SRD grant.
1. Means Income Source Identified Undefined
This rejection occurs when an applicant fails to provide adequate information about their income source. SASSA requires detailed income data to verify that an applicant is unemployed and needs financial assistance. Without clear and accurate information about income sources, SASSA cannot determine eligibility, leading to the rejection of the application. Applicants need to disclose all sources of income, even if they are minimal, to avoid this issue.
2. Identity Verification Failed
SASSA relies on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) database to verify the identity of all SRD grant applicants. If there is a mismatch between the personal information provided in the application and the data stored in the DHA records, the application will be declined. This could happen if the applicant’s details, such as name, ID number, or date of birth, are incorrect or outdated in the DHA database. Applicants must ensure their personal information is updated with the DHA to prevent identity verification failures.
3. UIF Registered
Applicants receiving Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) payments are ineligible for the SRD grant. The SRD grant temporarily relieves those not receiving other social assistance. Since UIF is a form of financial aid for unemployed individuals, those who are already beneficiaries of UIF can also not receive the SRD grant. SASSA cross-checks applications with UIF records to prevent dual benefits, leading to automatic rejection if an applicant is found to be on the UIF payroll.
4. Alternative Income Source Identified
SASSA sets a strict monthly income threshold of R624 for SRD grant eligibility. This threshold ensures that only individuals with minimal or no income receive the grant. If an applicant’s income exceeds this amount or SASSA identifies multiple income sources, the application will be rejected. This rule applies even if the additional income is from a part-time job, small business, or other source. This criterion aims to direct the SRD grant to those most financially vulnerable and genuinely in need of support.
5. Government Payroll/Pension Beneficiary
Government employees and individuals who receive a salary or pension from the government are not eligible for the SRD grant. This policy ensures that the limited resources of the SRD program are reserved for individuals who are not receiving any other form of financial support from the government. SASSA automatically rejects applications from individuals on the government payroll or pension beneficiaries, as they are considered to have sufficient financial security.
6. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) Beneficiary
Applicants receiving financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) are also ineligible for the SRD grant. NSFAS provides substantial financial support to students, covering tuition, accommodation, and other essential expenses. As a result, NSFAS beneficiaries are not considered to need the SRD grant. This rule is in place to prevent the overlap of benefits and to ensure that the SRD grant is allocated to those without other financial aid options.
SASSA Payment Dates for Grant Appeal
SASSA does not provide fixed payment dates for appeal approvals. Applicants must check their status regularly to know when they will receive their grant.
Remember, you must file a reconsideration request each month. Stay updated on your SRD R370 payment date, whether you receive your grant through cash or direct bank deposit. You can also check your payment and balance status live.
F.A.Q
What should you do after receiving the SASSA status declined report?
You need to visit the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals portal online. Then, follow the appeal application guide to submit your appeal application.
Who determines that this SRD application should be declined?
The SASSA officials make the final decision to approve or disapprove an SRD grant application. There is no other person or department that can make this decision.
What is the time limit for submitting the appeal?
You will have 30 days after the rejection date of your grant application to submit the appeal.
How long does the SASSA appeal take?
The appeal process can take 60 to 90 days to reach a decision.
Can I appeal for the SRD appeal status to be declined?
If your appeal is declined, you should not immediately reapply, as the system may automatically reject it. Instead, carefully review and correct any issues before submitting another appeal.