What is SASSA Reconsideration?
SASSA reconsideration is a process that allows you to request a review of your declined Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant application. You can submit a reconsideration application if your grant was unfairly declined due to:
- Incorrect information in SASSA's database
- System errors or technical glitches
- Incomplete identity verification
- Banking details mismatch
- Income verification errors
- Any other administrative issues
The reconsideration process gives you an opportunity to correct errors and provide additional information that may result in your application being approved.
Reconsideration vs Appeal: What's the Difference?
🔄 Reconsideration
- Handled by: SASSA/DSD
- Timeline: 60-90 business days
- Best for: System errors, incorrect data, verification issues
- Portal: srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals
- When: First step after decline
⚖️ Appeal (ITSAA)
- Handled by: Independent Tribunal (ITSAA)
- Timeline: 90-120 business days
- Best for: Challenging SASSA decisions, policy disputes
- Portal: srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
- When: After reconsideration is declined
How to Apply for Reconsideration Online
The online application process is the fastest and most convenient method. Follow these steps:
Visit the Reconsideration Portal
Go to srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals on your smartphone or computer. This is the official Department of Social Development appeals portal.
Enter Your ID Number
Provide your 13-digit South African ID number in the field labeled "ID Number of Applicant"
Verify Your Phone Number
Enter the phone number you used during your original SRD grant application. Click "Send Pin" to receive an OTP (One-Time PIN) via SMS.
Enter the OTP Code
Once you receive the OTP code on your phone, enter it in the PIN box provided. This will verify your identity and redirect you to the reconsideration page.
Select the Month
Choose the specific month(s) for which your application was declined and you are seeking reconsideration. You can select multiple months if needed.
Provide Your Reason
Clearly explain why you believe your application was unfairly declined. Be specific about any errors, provide relevant details, and explain your circumstances.
Accept Terms and Submit
Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions, then submit your reconsideration application. You should receive a confirmation message or reference number.
💡 Tips for a Successful Application
- Be clear and concise when explaining your reason
- Provide specific details about any errors you noticed
- Mention if you've updated your information (e.g., banking details, ID verification)
- Keep a record of your reference number or confirmation
- Submit within 90 days of receiving your decline notice
How to Apply for Reconsideration In Person
If you don't have internet access or prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit your nearest SASSA office:
📍 In-Person Application Process
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Required Documents:
- South African ID card or document
- Proof of residence (utility bill, affidavit, etc.)
- Bank account details and proof
- Registered cellphone number
- Any supporting documents for your reconsideration reason
What to Do:
- Arrive early to avoid long queues
- Inform the staff you want to apply for SRD grant reconsideration
- Complete the reconsideration form with assistance if needed
- Submit all required documents
- Collect your reference number or receipt
Common Reasons for Decline & How to Address Them
❌ Identity Verification Failed
What it means: Your ID details don't match Home Affairs records
How to fix: Visit Home Affairs to update your details, then submit reconsideration explaining you've resolved the issue
❌ Bank Verification Failed
What it means: Banking details are incorrect or account not in your name
How to fix: Update banking details on SASSA portal, ensure account is in your name, then apply for reconsideration
❌ Income Above Threshold
What it means: System shows you're earning above R350/month
How to fix: If this is incorrect, explain in reconsideration that you're unemployed or provide proof of actual income
❌ Receiving Other Grant/UIF
What it means: System shows you're receiving another grant or UIF
How to fix: If incorrect, explain the error and request SASSA to verify with relevant departments
❌ NSFAS Funding
What it means: System indicates you're receiving NSFAS
How to fix: If you're no longer a student or not receiving NSFAS, explain this in your reconsideration application
❌ Deceased Flag
What it means: Home Affairs records show you as deceased (system error)
How to fix: Visit Home Affairs urgently to correct records, get confirmation, then submit reconsideration
How to Check Your Reconsideration Status
After submitting your reconsideration application, you can check the status online:
Visit SASSA Status Check Portal
Go to srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/ or use our status check tool
Enter Your Details
Provide your SA ID number and registered phone number
Check Status
Your current status will display, showing if your reconsideration is pending, approved, or declined
Possible Statuses After Reconsideration:
- "Reconsideration Pending" - Your application is being reviewed
- "Approved" - Your reconsideration was successful, payment will be processed
- "Reconsideration Declined" - Your reconsideration was unsuccessful, you can appeal to ITSAA
- "Pending" - Additional verification may be required
Processing Time & What to Expect
📅 Typical Timeline
You receive confirmation and reference number
SASSA reviews your case and verifies information
Cross-checking with Home Affairs, banks, and other systems
You receive SMS notification with outcome (60-90 business days)
Possible Outcomes
Approved
If your reconsideration is successful:
- You'll receive an SMS notification
- Your grant status will change to "Approved"
- Payment for previously declined months will be processed
- Future monthly payments will continue automatically
- Funds typically paid in next payment cycle
Declined
If your reconsideration is unsuccessful:
- You'll receive SMS with decline reason
- You can appeal to ITSAA within 90 days
- Appeal is independent review of SASSA decision
- Use appeal portal at srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
- Different process with more formal procedures
Pending/Additional Info Required
If more information is needed:
- SASSA may request additional documentation
- You might need to visit SASSA office
- Update required information promptly
- Check your status regularly for updates
- Respond to any SMS notifications quickly
Next Steps: Appealing to ITSAA
If your reconsideration is declined and you believe the decision is unfair, you can escalate to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
⚖️ ITSAA Appeal Process
Who handles it: Independent Tribunal (not SASSA)
Deadline: 90 days from reconsideration decline notice
Processing time: 90-120 business days
Portal: srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
Contact ITSAA:
- Tel: 012 312 7727
- Email: [email protected]
- Fax: 086 534 3124
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does SASSA reconsideration take?
SASSA typically processes reconsideration applications within 60-90 business days. Complex cases may take longer.
Can I apply for reconsideration for multiple months?
Yes, you can select multiple months when submitting your reconsideration application through the online portal.
What if I miss the 90-day deadline?
While there's a 90-day guideline, you can still try to submit your reconsideration. However, earlier submission increases your chances of success.
Will I get paid for declined months if approved?
Yes, if your reconsideration is successful, SASSA will process payment for the previously declined month(s), usually in the next payment cycle.
Can I submit multiple reconsideration applications?
No, you should only submit one reconsideration per declined month. Multiple applications may delay processing.
What's the difference between reconsideration and reapplication?
Reconsideration reviews a previous decline decision. Reapplication is starting a new application for future months. Use reconsideration for past declined months.
Important Reminders
Keep Your Phone Active
Ensure your registered phone number stays active to receive OTPs, status updates, and notifications from SASSA.
Check Status Regularly
Monitor your application status weekly using the online portal to stay informed of any changes or requirements.
Beware of Scams
SASSA will never ask for payment to process your reconsideration. Don't share your banking PIN or OTPs with anyone.
Keep Records
Save confirmation numbers, SMS notifications, and screenshots of your submissions for future reference.