SASSA CEO Clears the Air: No Social Grants Suspended Amid Ongoing Review Process

Public confusion addressed as SASSA reassures beneficiaries amid targeted verification drive

Following a wave of public concern and confusion over the status of social grants, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that no social grant payments have been suspended during its current review process.

Speaking during a media briefing on Monday, SASSA CEO Themba Motlou said the agency is legally obliged to conduct periodic reviews of beneficiaries’ circumstances, and stressed that all approved grants remain valid.

“This is not about cutting off support,” said Motlou. “It’s about making sure that social grants go to those who truly need them.”

What’s Behind the Review?

The ongoing review is rooted in Section 14(5) of the Social Assistance Act, which requires beneficiaries to inform SASSA of any changes in income or personal details.

Motlou revealed that, following collaboration with registered Credit Bureaus, the agency identified approximately 210,000 grant recipients whose financial circumstances may have changed in some cases, significantly enough to breach eligibility criteria.

“These reviews are targeted and necessary,” said Motlou. “We are not suspending payments randomly. This is about maintaining the integrity of the system and ensuring public funds reach the right people.”

What Does This Mean for Beneficiaries?

If you’re receiving a SASSA grant, don’t panic, your grant hasn’t been stopped.

However, if your circumstances have changed since you applied (for example, if you’ve started earning income or your household situation has shifted), you may be asked to visit your local SASSA office to verify your information.

Affected individuals are being contacted via SMS notifications — with over 140,000 messages already sent out. Unfortunately, some messages may not have been received due to outdated contact details, a challenge SASSA is working to address through improved community-level outreach.

“We’re enhancing our communication strategy so no one is left out. But we also urge beneficiaries to keep their contact details up to date,” Motlou said.

Why This Review Matters

South Africa’s social assistance programme supports over 18 million people monthly. With the country’s constrained fiscal environment, government is under pressure to ensure that every rand is accounted for.

Motlou noted that National Treasury’s cost-saving conditions have pushed SASSA to identify and remove improperly paid grants, not just to save money, but to keep the system sustainable for future generations.

In some instances, beneficiaries were still listed on payroll systems or were earning income above the threshold, but had failed to inform the agency.

“We have a legal obligation to protect public funds. This process is part of that responsibility,” said Motlou.

What Happens If You Don’t Cooperate?

If a beneficiary fails to respond to review requests, it could result in:

• Temporary suspension of their grant

• Permanent lapsing of eligibility

• Debt recovery for any improperly received funds

SASSA reminded the public that transparency is a two-way street and that applicants must disclose all sources of income at the time of application and inform the agency if circumstances change.

New Security Measures on the Horizon

Motlou also revealed that SASSA is finalising biometric verification systems to help prevent identity fraud and enhance the security of its grant administration process.

“We’re strengthening verification processes while maintaining dignity and fairness,” he said. “This isn’t about punishment, it’s about accountability.”

A Final Word from the CEO

Despite the tension caused by recent misinformation, Motlou was firm in his assurance that no one who qualifies will be unfairly penalised.

“SASSA remains committed to the dignity and rights of every beneficiary. We are not taking grants away  we are protecting the system for those who need it most.”

Need to Update Your Details or Have Questions?

Visit your nearest SASSA office or call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.

Stay informed via @OfficialSASSA on social media and keep an eye on your SMS inbox if you are up for review.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com