‘SASSA Status Pending’? Do the Following to Fix It
Many South Africans in economically disadvantaged situations rely heavily on support from South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). However, many of them worry when they see status pending on their application. But this worry turns into a full-blown panic when grant status shows as “pending” for several weeks and even months.
For those battling with dire financial circumstances, this situation is highly stressful. This article will, therefore, explain why SASSA grant applications show as “pending” and also give a step-by-step guideline on how to resolve it. To make it much better for you, we have also shared a bonus tip describing various ways to check your SASSA pending status.
‘SASSA Status Pending’? Do the Following to Fix It
If your SASSA status reads “pending,” then it means your grant is under review. This might be due to your eligibility still under review or the large number of applications that need to be processed. Another reason for a pending status is that your documents are incomplete, or it is due to system delays.
The time for a decision is not uniform and can take several weeks to many months. In general, this process takes around three months to settle SASSA status pending for R350. Sometimes, applications remain in a pending queue due to lack of funds. In this scenario, applicants need to be patient and update their grant status regularly.
As said earlier, a SASSA pending status generally runs up to three months, which is the normal period for application approval. If your status remains pending even after three-plus months, feel free to carry out the following steps for resolution:
Step 1: Check Your Application Details
Scrutinize your application for any errors that might differ from your documents. Also, correct any mistakes regarding your personal information to avoid extra delays.
Step 2: Check Your Documents
Ensure all documents submitted are current and complete. If SASSA needs more documents, submit them within shortest time possible to avoid prolonged delays. Adhere to all types of documents and formatting guidelines so as not to experience ‘status pending’ issue of your application.
Step 3: Contact SASSA
Contact SASSA through their telephone number, or email address, or go there in person. You can directly get further updates from them on your grant application status.
Step 4: Be Patient and Keep Checking Your Status
Remember that sometimes high demand delays, so have patience. Meanwhile, keep looking and checking your application and maintain communication with SASSA authorities.
Step 5: Log Your Communication
Record all your communication with SASSA authorities since you will need information to follow instructions correctly.
Step 6: Stay Informed and Ask for Assistance
For information regarding changes in SASSA policies that might affect your application, keep updated. To do so, use community resources or organizations familiar with SASSA processes. If all fails, consider turning to a lawyer for assistance in ensuring that you are granted your means to support yourself.
Bonus Tip: How to Check Sassa Pending Status?
Before proceeding to check your SASSA pending status, make sure you have your South African ID and phone number you used in making your application to SASSA. If you do have them, here are 6 ways to see your SASSA pending status:
Way 1. SGSC Website
Head to SASSA online status check tool and fill form with your South African ID number and phone number. Then click “Check Status” to get your status.
Way 2. SRD SASSA Website
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status. Then, input your ID and mobile number and tap “Submit” to view your status immediately.
Way 3. SMS
If you don’t have internet access, a simple way is to text “SASSA [ID Number]” to 082 046 8553 on your phone. You’ll receive a response stating your current grant status.
Way 4. WhatsApp
First, you’ll need to add 082 046 8553 to your WhatsApp contacts. Then, write “SASSA” and send it to that number. Respond with “STATUS” thereafter, and follow prompts with your reference and mobile numbers to get your status.
Way 5. Moya App (Data-Free)
You can use Moya app, a data-free messaging/chat app to to check SASSA grant status. All you have to do is download it from PlayStore on your phone, run it, and head to “Discovery. Then, click “SASSA GRANT.” Following that, choose “SASSA SRD status,” enter your ID and mobile number, then click “Submit” to see your status.
Way 6. Call
If you don’t want to use SASSA’s official website, any app, or SMS to check your grant status, do it through a call. Contact SASSA at 0800 601 011.
FAQs
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Can I fast-track track process if my application is pending?
No, you can’t fast-track or in any way assure prompt processing. However, you can facilitate this by ensuring your application is complete, responding promptly to any requests for docs, and following up with SASSA.
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How to check your SASSA balance without airtime?
To check your SASSA balance without airtime, dial 12069277# on your cell phone, and enter your phone number and ID. You’ll receive an SMS with your balance.
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How to check your SASSA balance for a child grant?
To check your SASSA child grant balance, dial 1203210# on your cell phone, visit a local ATM, or go to an SASSA center. The process is same as for a standard SASSA grant.
Conclusion
Does your SASSA application status remain pending beyond three months? Follow steps discussed above in “SASSA Status Pending? Do the following to fix It” section to resolve this issue.
Keep verifying your application details or documents and communicating with SASSA for any updates. Be patient and at same time often check your grant status. Keeping a communication log is important, as well as keeping in touch with policy changes. If needed, consider going for help from community resources or legal advisors.