The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provides monthly cash assistance to over 18 million vulnerable individuals throughout South Africa.
As a recipient of SASSA grants, it is essential to understand and assert your entitlements to guarantee equitable treatment and access to complete grant benefits.
The Entitlement to Apply and Be Considered
Eligibility and Application Process
Individuals who meet the criteria have the right to request applicable SASSA grants.
This involves submitting applications either in person at local branches or through the online portal, accompanied by supporting documents.
SASSA’s Obligations
SASSA is obligated to process all complete applications and grant approval to eligible candidates.
The Entitlement to Dignity and Respect
Treatment by SASSA Staff
SASSA staff must handle all grant recipients with politeness, understanding, and respect.
Discriminatory behavior based on race, gender, disability, or other factors is strictly forbidden.
Reporting Disrespectful Behavior
If any disrespectful behavior is encountered, recipients have the right to report it to SASSA management.
The Entitlement to Privacy
Data Protection Measures
Stringent data protection measures ensure the confidentiality of recipients’ personal information and grant records.
SASSA is not permitted to share or reveal any details without explicit consent.
Requesting Information on Privacy Policies
Recipients have the option to request information on privacy policies.
The Entitlement to Clear Information
Communication of Grant Details
SASSA is mandated to convey grant amounts, payment schedules, terms, and conditions using uncomplicated, easy-to-understand language.
Requesting Written Explanations
Recipients are within their rights to ask for written explanations detailing their specific grant particulars.
The Entitlement to Complete and Punctual Payments
Timely and Full Payments
Upon approval, recipients are entitled to receive the entire grant amount promptly every month.
Reporting Payment Issues
Any delayed or incomplete payments should be reported immediately, and SASSA is obliged to swiftly resolve any payment issues.
The Entitlement to Appeal Decisions
Appealing Rejected Applications or Discontinued Grants
Recipients have the option to appeal a rejected application or discontinued grant within a 90-day period.
Escalating Appeals
Additional documents can be submitted, and SASSA must re-examine the case. If necessary, appeals can be escalated to the Minister of Social Development.
The Entitlement to Raise Complaints
Filing Complaints
Recipients have the freedom to file complaints regarding inadequate services, policies, or staff behavior.
Escalating Complaints
Complaints should be initially directed to local office managers and can be further escalated to regional or national management if they remain unresolved.
Rights for Each Type of Grant
Specific Entitlements for Different Grants
- Disability grant: the entitlement to reasonable accommodation/support
- Child grant: the entitlement to monitor the child’s school attendance
- Care dependency grant: the entitlement to recognition of the caregiver’s efforts
- Foster child grant: the entitlement to assistance in caring for a foster child
Exercising Your Entitlements
Upholding Your Rights
To uphold their rights, recipients should:
- Maintain meticulous records of grants and correspondences
- Familiarize themselves with grant eligibility criteria and regulations
- Access rights-related information on the SASSA website
- Adhere to proper procedures for filing appeals or complaints
- Seek guidance from legal aid organizations when necessary
SASSA Contact
For more information or to report concerns, beneficiaries can contact SASSA directly:
- Phone: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: sassaenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Website