Why People Get Denied for SRD Grants

For unemployed people living in South Africa, the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is an astounding means of support.

Unfortunately, too many applicants get denied, which leaves them angry and confused. Knowing the reasoning behind these denials is key to improving almost any possible chances of success.

Reasons Why You Could Be Denied an SRD Grant

Your application could be denied based on multiple reasons. Here are some common concerns:

  1. Employment and Income Tax Contributions: You have been employed at some point, and you have made income tax contributions.
  2. Mismatched Personal Details: Your particulars do not meet with the Department of Home Affairs records.
  3. Current Social Grant Recipient: You are receiving a Social grant apart from the child grant.
  4. NSFAS Registration: You are registered with the National Student Fund Aid Scheme and are an active recipient of NSFAS.
  5. UIF Benefits: You are qualifying for UIF benefits, or you are receiving Unemployment Insurance Fund benefit.
  6. Government Employment: You work within a government institution.
  7. Age Requirement: You are either under age or over the age of 60.

Reasons for SRD Grant Decline

  1. Dead Registration: The Department of Home Affairs has you in their systems marked as deceased.
  2. Exceeding Income Threshold: A balance of more than R624 exists in your bank account during the month.

Steps to Take When Your SRD Grant Application Has Been Declined

SASSA has advised applicants with a rejected application not to apply again right away. Rather:

  • The SRD grant appeal process is meant for people who feel they have been unfairly declined.

To appeal:

  1. Go to the SASSA appeals webpage.
  2. Fill in your ID number and mobile number.
  3. Upload the relevant evidence which supports your appeal.
  4. Complete the steps on the webpage for appealing.

Checking the Status of Your Appeal

If you’ve filed an appeal:

  1. Go to the SASSA Appeals site.
  2. Type in your ID number together with your mobile number.
  3. Press “Track Appeal.”

If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may need to take further action, such as going to the High Court to seek a review.