The SASSA SRD R370 grant continues to provide critical financial relief to millions of unemployed South Africans in 2025. However, not every application is approved on the first attempt.
If your application has been denied, do not worry—you still have options. The appeal and re-appeal processes are in place to ensure that eligible applicants receive the financial support they need.
This guide will walk you through why applications get rejected, how to appeal successfully, and what to do if your appeal is denied. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of overturning a rejection and securing financial assistance.
Overview
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | SASSA Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant |
| Amount | R370 per month (2025) |
| Appeal Period | Within 90 days of rejection |
| Re-Appeal Option | High Court within 180 days |
| Eligibility | SA citizens, unemployed, income under R624/month |
| Appeal Site | srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals |
A rejection does not have to be the end of the road. With the right information and timely action, you have a strong chance of getting your application approved through an appeal.
Common Reasons
Many applicants are surprised when their SRD grant application is denied. Here are the most common reasons for rejection:
- Identity verification failed – Your details do not match Home Affairs records.
- Alternative income found – SASSA detects bank deposits, even small ones.
- UIF registration detected – If you are listed under UIF, you are automatically disqualified.
- Receiving another grant – You cannot receive the SRD and another SASSA grant at the same time.
- Incomplete application – Errors or missing details can lead to automatic rejection.
Before appealing, check the exact reason for your rejection so you can provide the right supporting documents.
How to Appeal
If you believe your rejection was unfair, follow these steps to lodge an appeal:
Visit the Official Appeals Portal
Go to srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals to start the appeal process.
Enter Your Details
Provide your 13-digit South African ID number and the mobile number used in your application. Ensure all details match your original submission.
Receive and Enter Your OTP
Click “Send PIN”, then enter the one-time password (OTP) sent via SMS to verify your identity.
Select the Month(s) to Appeal
SASSA assesses applications monthly, so each declined month must be appealed separately.
Choose Appeal Reason & Upload Documents
Select the reason for your appeal and upload relevant documents, such as:
- Bank statements (to prove you have no income).
- UIF confirmation letter (if you are not receiving UIF payments).
- Proof of unemployment (termination letter, job-seeking proof).
- Affidavits or sworn statements explaining your situation.
Submit & Track Your Appeal
Click “Submit”, then save your reference number to track your appeal status online.
What Happens?
Your appeal is reviewed by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). They operate separately from SASSA and ensure fair decision-making.
- Processing time: 60-90 days.
- Updates: You will receive SMS notifications.
- Back pay: If your appeal is successful, you will receive payments for previously declined months.
If the Tribunal approves your appeal, you will start receiving your SRD grant. If denied, you can still re-appeal through legal action.
Re-Appealing
If your appeal is unsuccessful but you believe an error was made, you can escalate your case to the High Court within 180 days.
When Should You Re-Appeal?
- You were incorrectly flagged for having income.
- Your UIF or grant status was wrongly recorded.
- Your identity details were mishandled or misidentified.
How to Re-Appeal?
- Gather all supporting documents (bank records, affidavits, letters from UIF).
- Consult Legal Aid South Africa or a social rights organization for guidance.
- Submit a formal High Court application with legal assistance.
While this is a longer and more complex process, it can help correct errors that SASSA failed to fix.
Pro Tips
To boost your chances of approval:
- Use the same phone number – If you have changed numbers, update it at a SASSA office.
- Check your ID details carefully – Any mistakes can lead to rejection.
- Avoid receiving large deposits – SASSA checks for unexpected income sources.
- Upload clear, high-quality documents – Blurry or incomplete submissions can delay processing.
- Check your application status every month – Your eligibility is assessed monthly.
- Submit your appeal on time – Appeals must be lodged within 90 days of rejection.
Being denied the SASSA SRD R370 Grant can be frustrating, but you have options. By knowing why your application was rejected, gathering the right documents, and appealing within the deadline, you stand a strong chance of overturning the decision.
If needed, take further legal action to ensure you get the financial support you deserve.
FAQs
How long does a SASSA appeal take?
The appeal process takes 60-90 days for review and a final decision.
Can I appeal more than once?
Yes, if your first appeal is denied, you can escalate it to the High Court.
Where do I submit my SRD appeal?
Submit your appeal online at srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals.
What documents help with an appeal?
Bank statements, UIF confirmation, job loss proof, and affidavits help.
What if my appeal is rejected?
You can re-appeal to the High Court within 180 days with legal help.
