The Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has been a vital source of financial assistance for many South Africans during the pandemic.
However, to ensure that the grant reaches the intended beneficiaries, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has implemented various verification processes.
One of these processes is identity verification, which is essential for SASSA to confirm the identity of applicants.
Eligibility for SRD Grant
Before we dive into the process of requesting identity verification, it is essential to confirm your eligibility for the SRD grant.
To qualify for the grant, you must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
You must also be residing in South Africa, be between the ages of 18 and 60, and have insufficient means to support yourself or your family.
Additionally, you must not be receiving any other social grant, unemployment insurance benefits, or a stipend from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
Why is Identity Verification Required?
Identity verification is a vital step in the SRD grant application process.
SASSA requires identity verification to ensure that the grant is paid to the correct person and to prevent fraudulent activities.
Identity verification also helps SASSA to confirm that the applicant is a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee, and that they are residing in South Africa.
How to Request Identity Verification
To request identity verification for the SRD grant, you can follow these steps:
Via WhatsApp
You can request identity verification via WhatsApp by sending a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
When sending the message, make sure to include your name, surname, and ID number. SASSA will then send you a link to upload your identity document.
Via USSD
You can also request identity verification via USSD by dialing 1347737#.
Follow the prompts to enter your ID number and surname. SASSA will then send you a message with a link to upload your identity document.
Via Email
Alternatively, you can request identity verification via email by sending an email to SRD@sassa.gov.za.
When sending the email, make sure to include your name, surname, and ID number. SASSA will then send you a link to upload your identity document.
Required Documents for Identity Verification
To complete the identity verification process, you will need to upload a copy of your identity document. The accepted identity documents are:
South African ID Book or Card
If you are a South African citizen, you will need to upload a copy of your ID book or card.
Permanent Residence Permit
If you are a permanent resident, you will need to upload a copy of your permanent residence permit.
Refugee Permit
If you are a refugee, you will need to upload a copy of your refugee permit.
What Happens After Requesting Identity Verification?
After requesting identity verification, SASSA will send you a link to upload your identity document.
Once you have uploaded the required document, SASSA will verify your identity.
If your identity is verified successfully, SASSA will proceed with processing your SRD grant application.
If there are any issues with your identity verification, SASSA will contact you to request additional information or documentation.
By following these steps and providing the required documentation, you can request identity verification for the SRD grant and complete the application process.