The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to students in South Africa.
However, if you’re a SASSA grant beneficiary, you might be concerned about unauthorized deductions from your grant.
Unwanted deductions from SASSA grants are a growing concern, especially among older person grant recipients.
Stop unauthorized SASSA deductions
Unauthorized deductions from SASSA grants can be a significant problem for beneficiaries who rely on these payments to meet their basic needs.
These deductions can be for various services, including airtime, data, bank charges, funeral policies, life insurance, loan repayments, retail store accounts, and membership fees ¹.
Steps to Stop Unauthorized Deductions
To stop unauthorized deductions from your SASSA grant, follow these steps:
Identify the Source
First, identify the source of the deductions if you don’t know who is making them. You can do this by:
- Calling SASSA on 0800 601 011
- Visiting a SASSA office near you
Send an SMS to Q-Link
You can also stop unwanted deductions by texting to 34548 with the following details:
- Your full names and surname
- ID number
- Financial Service Provider (FSP) responsible for the unauthorized deductions
- Duration and reason for disputing the deduction
Update Your Banking Details
Visit a SASSA office to update your banking details to prevent further unauthorized deductions.
Beware of Scams
Be cautious of scammers who may try to deceive you into sharing your account pin or signing documents you haven’t read.
Never share your account information with anyone, and always read documents carefully before signing.
Common Unauthorized Deductions
Some common unauthorized deductions from SASSA grants include ¹:
- Airtime and data deductions
- Bank charges
- Funeral policies
- Life insurance
- Loan repayments
- Retail store accounts
- Membership fees
How to Check for Unauthorized Deductions
To detect unauthorized transactions, regularly check your account balance and transaction history:
- Dial the USSD code 12069277# or 1203210#
- Use your SASSA card to check your balance at an ATM or retailer
- Send a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number +27820468553
- Visit a SASSA office or partnered pay point
Can SASSA Grant be Stopped?
Yes, SASSA grants can be stopped due to various reasons, including unauthorized deductions.
If you’re experiencing unauthorized deductions, follow the steps above to stop them.
Can I Cancel SASSA Grant Online?
You can contact SASSA to cancel your grant, but the process may vary depending on your specific situation.
It’s best to contact SASSA directly for guidance on canceling your grant.
SASSA Contact
For more information or to report unauthorized deductions, contact SASSA at ²:
- Phone: 0800 60 10 11
- WhatsApp: +27820468553
- Email: Grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Website