The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has confirmed that May 2025 grant payments will begin as scheduled this week. However, some beneficiaries may experience delays due to ongoing verification processes aimed at preventing fraud and tightening the system’s integrity.
Speaking to The Citizen on Monday, Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi urged beneficiaries not to panic, noting that the delays would affect only targeted individuals.
“The verification process is an ongoing process. For now, we want to appeal to our beneficiaries not to panic,” said Letsatsi.
Sassa Payment Dates for May 2025
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Older Persons Grant – Tuesday, 6 May 2025
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Disability Grant – Wednesday, 7 May 2025
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Children’s Grants – Thursday, 8 May 2025
Most recipients will receive their grants as expected. However, those who use alternative forms of identification—not the standard 13-digit South African ID number—may see their payments held until they complete the required verification.
Who Is Affected by the Delay?
The affected beneficiaries are being asked to visit Sassa offices in person to verify their identity numbers. This verification process is part of a wider effort by the agency to reduce fraud and ensure all grants go to eligible recipients.
“Once these clients have presented themselves at various Sassa offices, a review will be done and then their 13-digit ID numbers will be captured in the system,” the agency said.
Failure to comply may result in temporary suspension of grants, and prolonged non-compliance could cause permanent lapsing of the grant.
Sassa Steps Up Anti-Fraud Measures
In addition to ID verification, Sassa is targeting recipients flagged by its bulk means test process—a system designed to detect undisclosed income that may disqualify an individual from receiving a grant.
The agency reminded recipients that social grants can be reviewed at any time if circumstances change.
“We will regularly identify clients on a monthly basis so that they come to our offices to verify their personal details,” said Letsatsi.
These reviews are part of Sassa’s broader strategy to improve accountability and protect the sustainability of South Africa’s social security system in the 2025/2026 financial year.
What Beneficiaries Should Do
Sassa encourages any grant recipients who believe they may be affected to visit their nearest Sassa office promptly for verification.
For those who have not received any communication or who use a valid 13-digit ID, no action is needed, and grants will be paid as scheduled.
With millions depending on Sassa’s monthly support, the agency is walking a fine line between fraud prevention and service delivery, and is asking for public patience and cooperation.
{Source: The Citizen}
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