Grant recipients face frustrating challenges with SASSA's in-person verification process

The in-person verification process that the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has implemented is frustrating social grant recipients, particularly those in rural areas.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

This is according to the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Bridget Masango who said the stringent new conditions imposed by National Treasury on SASSA's 2025/26 budget were having severe consequences for millions of vulnerable South Africans.

"Today, we address an issue that affects nearly half of our population," said Masango, referring to conditions that include biometric authentication for flagged beneficiaries, cross-verification with SARS and other state databases, and quarterly reporting of suspended or cancelled grants.

"Treasury argues these steps are essential to combat fraud and ensure value for money, and failure to comply by SASSA may result in grant funding being withheld, a deeply concerning possibility for millions who rely on this support," she said.