If your SASSA application was declined, you’re not alone. Many people across South Africa face this issue every month. But the good news? You still have a chance to get your SASSA SRD grant by submitting an appeal.
This simple guide explains how to appeal your declined status step-by-step, what documents you’ll need, how to check the progress of your appeal, and what to do if it’s denied again.
SASSA Appeal Steps at a Glance
Step | Action to Take | Timeframe |
---|---|---|
1 | Check the reason for decline | Within 90 days |
2 | Gather documents (ID, proof of income, etc.) | Before appeal |
3 | Submit appeal via the official online portal | ASAP |
4 | Get your appeal reference number via SMS | Immediately |
5 | Track your appeal online regularly | Every 2–4 weeks |
6 | If rejected, ask for written reasons and seek legal help | After decision |
Step 1 – Check Why Your Application Was Declined
Start by visiting the SASSA SRD website or checking the SMS or email you got from SASSA. The message will usually include the reason your grant was declined.
Common reasons for being declined:
- Your income is too high (above the threshold)
- You gave wrong or incomplete information
- You submitted a duplicate application
- There were problems verifying your bank account
Write down the reason—you’ll need it for your appeal.
Step 2 – Collect All Required Documents
To successfully appeal, you must upload correct and updated documents.
You’ll need:
- Your South African ID number (or asylum/refugee permit number)
- The mobile number you used when applying
- Proof of income or bank statements
- Affidavits (if your situation changed)
- Any missing or corrected documents
This information proves your eligibility and helps fix what caused the rejection.
Step 3 – Submit Your Appeal Online
Follow these steps to send your appeal using the SASSA Appeal Portal:
- Go to: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
- Enter your ID number and registered phone number
- Select the month and reason for the appeal
- Upload all supporting documents
- Click Submit Appeal
You’ll get an SMS confirmation with your appeal reference number.
Step 4 – Save and Use Your Reference Number
After submitting your appeal, SASSA will send you a unique reference number via SMS.
Why this matters:
You’ll need this number to track the status of your appeal. It’s also proof that you submitted it on time.
Tip: Save the SMS or take a screenshot for future use.
Step 5 – Track Your Appeal Status
Visit the SASSA Appeal Portal regularly to check progress.
- Enter your ID and phone number
- View updates or status changes
- Appeals usually take 60 to 90 days for final decisions
If your appeal shows “Pending,” keep checking every 2–4 weeks.
Step 6 – What If Your Appeal Gets Rejected Again?
If your appeal is unsuccessful, don’t give up.
You can:
- Ask for written reasons from SASSA
- Contact Legal Aid South Africa (they provide free legal help)
- Talk to social workers or community aid groups
They can help you prepare a stronger appeal or check if SASSA made a mistake.
Extra Tips for a Successful Appeal
- Make sure your banking details are correct
- Double-check that your documents match your application
- If your situation changed (like job loss), include proof
- Don’t wait—submit your appeal fast, within 90 days
Getting your SASSA grant declined can be upsetting, but it’s not the end. You still have the right to appeal, and thousands of people get approved every year after fixing small mistakes.
Follow the simple steps in this guide—check your status, gather documents, submit online, and track your case using your reference number.
Even if your appeal is denied again, help is available from legal advisors and social workers. Don’t wait too long—the sooner you appeal, the better your chances of receiving your monthly R370 grant again.
FAQs
Can I appeal more than once?
Yes, but each appeal must be for a different month or new reason. You can’t re-appeal the same reason again.
Does appealing mean I will be approved?
Not guaranteed, but submitting the correct documents and fixing your errors gives you a much higher chance of success.
What happens if I miss the 90-day appeal deadline?
Your appeal may be automatically rejected. Always appeal as soon as you receive the decline message to avoid losing out.