Sherry
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed a delay in June 2025 grant payments impacting around 210,000 recipients due to concerns regarding undisclosed income.
Joint Investigation Uncovers Irregularities
A recent collaborative investigation between SASSA and registered Credit Bureaus revealed that certain social grant recipients may have been receiving additional income not reported during their grant application or afterward.
This lack of disclosure potentially violates legal requirements under the Social Assistance Act, which mandates that applicants must fully declare all income sources and report any financial changes after their grants are approved.
Legal Obligations for Income Disclosure
According to the Social Assistance Act, grant recipients are legally obligated to:
- Declare all income sources when applying.
- Update SASSA if any changes occur in their financial circumstances.
Non-compliance constitutes a violation of the Act and may trigger corrective measures.
Mandatory Reviews Required Within 30 Days
Affected beneficiaries will need to visit their nearest SASSA local office within 30 days of notification to undergo a mandatory grant review as specified under Regulation 30 of the Act.
Failure to comply may lead to the temporary suspension of the grant. Continued non-compliance could result in permanent cancellation of the benefit.
Why SASSA Is Taking Action
This initiative is part of SASSA’s broader effort to clean up the grant system by correcting possible inclusion errors. It ensures that only those who remain financially eligible continue to receive support.
SASSA officials stressed that while some recipients may have qualified initially, improved financial conditions over time may now disqualify them.
Disclosure of Additional Income & Bank Accounts
SASSA is urging all grant recipients to voluntarily report any new sources of income or undeclared bank accounts immediately. Doing so may help avoid penalties or loss of benefits.
Transition to Smart ID Cards Urged
In a related move, SASSA recommends that beneficiaries still using the green bar-coded ID book upgrade to the more secure smart ID card. The agency cites the increased risk of fraud associated with the outdated ID format.
Commitment to Fighting Fraud
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy toward fraud, SASSA warned that any discovery of collusion between agency officials and beneficiaries to exploit the system will result in disciplinary and legal action to safeguard the integrity of the grant program.
The recent move by SASSA to delay June 2025 grant payments for those with undisclosed income underlines the agency’s commitment to maintaining transparency and ensuring that social grants reach only eligible recipients. Beneficiaries are urged to cooperate fully, update their income information, and transition to smart ID cards to prevent disruptions in their payments.
FAQs
Why are 210,000 SASSA grants delayed in June 2025?
Payments are delayed due to a joint investigation uncovering undisclosed income among these grant recipients.
What should I do if I received a notification from SASSA?
You must visit your nearest SASSA office within 30 days for a mandatory grant review to verify your eligibility.
What happens if I fail to update my income information?
Non-compliance may result in the suspension of your grant and could ultimately lead to its permanent termination.