SASSA Payment Delays Leave Beneficiaries Disappointed and Anxious
SASSA Grant Beneficiaries Frustrated Due To Delayed Payment
Tensions flared at the SASSA office in downtown Johannesburg as frustrated beneficiaries gathered to voice their grievances over delayed SASSA grant payments. On Thursday, 15 May 2025, beneficiaries expressed their dissatisfaction with long waiting times, lack of assistance, and being repeatedly turned away.
Why Are SASSA Payments Delayed?
The delays stem from a recent verification campaign aimed at tightening the social grant system. Last month, SASSA announced that there would be slight disruptions in the May payment schedule to facilitate the verification process.
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According to SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi, the delay primarily affects beneficiaries who use alternative forms of identification other than the standard 13-digit South African identity number. These individuals are required to visit SASSA offices in person to have their ID numbers reviewed and recorded.
Despite the agency’s assurance that the process would only slightly impact payments, many beneficiaries have reported ongoing issues. Letsatsi emphasized that beneficiaries should not panic as payments will continue as scheduled, though the delay might impact targeted groups.
Frustration at SASSA Offices
Many beneficiaries gathered outside the SASSA office in downtown Johannesburg reported feeling ignored and neglected. One woman shared her struggle, stating that despite numerous visits to the office since last year, she has yet to receive the grant for her child.
Another frustrated beneficiary, Lesego Tau (name changed), explained that she had been attempting to register her daughter for the child support grant for three weeks, only to be repeatedly turned away. Despite arriving early, she was told the office was full, although other beneficiaries leaving the premises contradicted this claim.
“I got here this morning, but they didn’t want me to get inside. The people I arrived with got in, but I was told to remain outside,” one beneficiary lamented.
The Official Response
Speaking to The Citizen on 5 May, Letsatsi acknowledged that the verification process was ongoing and reiterated that not all beneficiaries would be affected. He clarified that the affected group consists of those who use non-standard forms of identification for social grants.
SASSA warned that beneficiaries who fail to comply with the verification requirements may face grant suspension. Prolonged non-compliance could ultimately result in the complete lapsing of grants.
The agency urged beneficiaries to respond promptly and visit their nearest SASSA offices for verification to avoid disruption in receiving their grants.
What’s Next for Beneficiaries?
For now, SASSA beneficiaries are advised to remain patient and follow the necessary procedures to update their identification details. Those who face continued challenges are encouraged to escalate their issues with SASSA representatives or seek assistance from community support groups.
The ongoing frustrations have left many feeling neglected, but SASSA maintains that the measures are necessary to ensure that social grants reach those who genuinely qualify.
Stay updated for more information as the situation develops.
Also read: SASSA Grant Payment Dates for June 2025: Your Complete Guide
