What to do When SRD Status Comes as “Referred SAFPS”?

When your SRD (Social Relief of Distress) application status reads “Referred SAFPS,” it might appear mysterious. However, this status signifies that your application has been referred to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) for further verification. 

This step is taken to ensure the integrity of the relief system and to safeguard against potential fraudulent activities. Understanding what to do next is crucial to navigate through this process effectively and ensure that you receive the support you need.

Learn about how to get out of this situation and what you need to do right now.

What is the Meaning of “Referred SAFPS”?

“Referred SAFPS” indicates that SASSA has detected a potential issue related to social grant fraud linked to your ID number. To ensure the integrity of the application process, SASSA collaborates with SAFPS to scrutinize applicants’ details for any fraudulent activity. If your status reflects this, it suggests that there may have been a past incident involving social grant fraud associated with your ID. 

If you believe there’s been a mistake, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can lodge an appeal with the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) to review your case and provide a fair resolution.

Why Does My SRD Grant Status Marked as “SAFPS”?

If your SRD grant status is marked as “SAFPS,” it indicates that your application has been referred to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service for further verification.

Here are the Possible Reasons:

• Discrepancies or Inconsistencies: Your application details may have raised concerns due to discrepancies or inconsistencies found during the application process.
• Previous Fraudulent Activity: Detection of a prior instance of social grant fraud linked to your ID number or personal details could prompt SASSA to refer your application to SAFPS for scrutiny.

Purpose of SAFPS Verification:

The SAFPS verification process is implemented by SASSA to ensure the integrity of the social relief system and prevent fraudulent activities.

No Implication of Wrongdoing

If your status is labeled as “SAFPS,” it doesn’t necessarily imply wrongdoing on your part but signifies a routine check to ensure that only eligible applicants receive assistance.

How to Appeal for Falsely Labeled SRD Grant Result for SAFPS?

Suppose you believe your application has been erroneously flagged, or wish to contest the decision. In that case, you can appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) to formally review your case.

Here is what you need to do:

1. Visit the Appeal Website: Go to the official appeal website of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/.
2. Log In or Register: If you have an existing account, log in using your credentials. If not, you’ll need to register for an account on the website.
3. Access Appeal Form: Once logged in, navigate to the section dedicated to appeals. Here, you should find the appeal form specifically designed for SRD grant applications.
4. Fill Out the Appeal Form: Provide all the required information accurately on the appeal form. This typically includes personal details, application reference number, reasons for appeal, and any supporting documentation.
5. Explain the Grounds for Appeal: Clearly articulate why you believe your application was falsely labeled and why you disagree with the decision. Provide any evidence or documentation that supports your claim of innocence or error.
6. Submit the Appeal: After completing the appeal form and attaching any necessary documents, submit it through the designated portal on the website.
7. Await Review: The Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) will review your case and decide based on the information provided. This process can take 60 to 90 days, so be patient and check for updates regularly.

What Can Happen When Someone Accused of Social Grant Fraud?

Providing false or misleading information and documents for the SASSA social grant is a crime. It has a very serious impact on the applicant. Here are some of the actions that SASSA can take against the fraudulent individuals.

• SASSA can file a lawsuit against a false claiming SASSA grant individual. The minimum sentence is 10 years in prison.
• The government of South Africa can fine the person up to R40,000.
• SASSA has the right to ban the individual from any type of social grant from now to ever.

So be careful and only apply for SASSA social grants when you are 100% eligible for it. Please try to make your profile record clean and do not involve any kind of crime.

What is My SASSA Grant Appeal Declined?

If your SASSA grant appeal is declined, and you firmly believe in the legitimacy of your claim, you may choose to pursue legal action by taking a lawsuit against SASSA. Here’s what you can do:

Consult with Legal Counsel: Seek advice from a qualified attorney who specializes in social assistance law or administrative law. They can assess your case, provide legal guidance, and represent you in court proceedings.

Gather Evidence: Compile all relevant evidence supporting your eligibility for the grant. This may include documents such as identification, proof of income, employment status, bank statements, and any correspondence related to your application and appeal.

Prepare Court Documents: With the assistance of your legal counsel, prepare the necessary court documents to initiate legal proceedings against SASSA. This typically involves drafting a summons or notice of motion outlining the grounds for your lawsuit and the relief sought.

File Lawsuit: File the lawsuit at the appropriate court jurisdiction, which is typically the High Court or a relevant Magistrate’s Court depending on the nature of the case and the amount of relief sought.

Serve SASSA: Ensure that SASSA is properly served with the court documents following legal requirements. This notifies them of the legal action being taken against them and allows them to respond.

Attend Court Proceedings: Attend all scheduled court hearings and proceedings as required. Your legal counsel will represent you and present your case before the court, arguing for the recognition of your eligibility for the grant.

Provide Proof of Eligibility: During the court proceedings, be prepared to provide evidence and testimony demonstrating your eligibility for the grant. This may involve presenting documentation and witnesses to support your claims.

Await Court Decision: The court will review the evidence and arguments presented by both parties and make a decision based on the merits of the case. If the court rules in your favor, SASSA will be required to reconsider your grant application or appeal.

Comply with Court Orders: If the court grants relief in your favor, ensure that SASSA complies with any orders issued by the court, such as reconsidering your grant application or providing the necessary assistance.