Starting 1 September 2025, major SASSA grant changes will be introduced. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is launching a biometric enrolment system for all new applications and certain updates to existing grants. This change is aimed at reducing fraud, improving security, and ensuring that grants are only received by eligible beneficiaries.
SASSA has confirmed that everything is in place. Themba Matlou, CEO of SASSA, stated, “It is all systems go for the implementation.”
How the Biometric System Will Work
New Applications
From September, every new grant applicant will be required to provide fingerprint scans or facial recognition through SASSA’s electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) system.
Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA spokesperson, said, “All grant applications captured and approved from 1 September will include biometric fingerprint enrolment or facial recognition through eKYC.”
Reviews and Personal Changes
The biometric system will also be applied to beneficiaries who are under review or those updating their personal details, such as bank account numbers or cellphones. If biometrics are not captured, the application will be placed in review until verified.
What Beneficiaries Should Expect
If you’re applying for a new grant or updating details, you’ll need to bring your South African ID and mobile phone. Beneficiaries contacted for review should complete the biometric process promptly to avoid delays or suspensions in payments.
Why SASSA is Introducing Biometrics
The main reason behind these changes is to curb fraud and improve the reliability of the social security system.
- Preventing fraud: For years, SASSA staff have faced challenges in detecting fraudulent green ID books. Letsatsi noted, “It’s hard for staff at SASSA offices to detect fraudulent green ID books.”
- Ensuring proof of life: Biometric enrolment will ensure that grants are only paid to living beneficiaries who are still eligible for the funds.
- Improved auditing: By using digital verification, SASSA will improve its records, making audits more efficient and accurate.
The Department of Home Affairs has recently upgraded its system, allowing SASSA to verify identities through fingerprints and facial recognition against the National Population Register.
Expert Insights and Statements
SASSA has assured the public that they are ready for the change. Paseka Letsatsi highlighted, “We want to make sure that the person accessing our system is indeed the one authorised to do so.”
Although the new system is necessary, some groups have expressed concerns about access, particularly in rural areas with limited connectivity. SASSA has addressed this by stating that the biometric devices can work offline, syncing data once the internet is available.
The Numbers Behind the SASSA Grant Changes
The scale of fraud risks is evident from recent statistics. In May 2025, 210,000 beneficiaries were flagged after credit bureau checks revealed undeclared income. These individuals had their grants suspended until in-person verification was completed.
This demonstrates the importance of biometrics in reducing fraud and protecting public funds.
Other Important Changes to Be Aware Of
In addition to biometric enrolment, another significant change is the termination of SASSA’s Master Service Agreement with Postbank, set for 30 September 2025. While this won’t affect beneficiaries who already receive grants into their personal bank accounts, those using Postbank will need to make new arrangements to receive their payments.
How to Prepare for the Changes
To ensure a smooth transition, beneficiaries should:
- Make sure their South African ID is updated and valid at Home Affairs.
- Complete biometric enrolment if contacted for a review or update.
- Keep their mobile number active for verification.
- Contact SASSA’s official helpline (0800 60 10 11) or visit the SASSA website for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my grant stop if I don’t enrol biometrics?
Yes. If biometric enrolment is not completed when required, your grant may be delayed or suspended until the process is finished.
Do I need internet access to enrol biometrics?
No. The biometric system can function offline and will update once connectivity is restored.
When should I enrol biometrics?
Biometric enrolment is required when applying for a new grant, undergoing a review, or updating your personal details such as bank account or phone number.
Stay Informed and Ready
The SASSA grant changes in SAeptember 2025 are an essential step toward a safer, more reliable social security system. While the new biometric system may require a few extra steps from beneficiaries, it will significantly enhance security and ensure that only eligible South Africans receive their grants.
Stay informed, update your details, and cooperate with SASSA offices to make the process as smooth as possible.
Also Read: Sassa Pensioners March to Parliament: See List of Demands
