Starting from 5 May 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is rolling out mandatory biometric ID verification for all social grant beneficiaries.
If you rely on a SASSA grant, whether it’s for old age, disability, child support, or the SRD R370 grant, you’ll need to complete this process soon — or risk having your payments delayed or suspended.
Here’s a full breakdown of why this new system is being introduced, who needs to comply, what documents to bring, and what happens if you miss the deadline.
Reason
SASSA’s new biometric ID checks are part of a national push to tackle fraud and identity theft in the grants system. With thousands of fake claims and duplicate beneficiaries flagged every year, this move aims to make sure only the right people get paid.
Why it matters:
- Stops identity fraud and multiple grants under one name
- Secures the payment system against scams
- Keeps beneficiary details current
- Links your fingerprint and photo directly to your grant payment profile
Who
So, who exactly needs to show up for this biometric check? In short — everyone receiving a SASSA grant.
This includes:
- New SASSA applicants
- Existing beneficiaries with expired or temporary IDs
- Anyone flagged for account revalidation
- People changing their grant payment bank accounts
- Beneficiaries with expired or damaged SASSA cards
If that’s you, get ready for verification.
Documents
Make sure you’re prepared before heading to the nearest SASSA office or mobile unit. Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:
- Original South African ID book or smart card
- SASSA card (if you have one)
- Proof of residence (like a utility bill or lease)
- Bank account confirmation letter (if you’re using EFT)
- Birth certificates for child-related grants
- Medical forms for disability grants
- Letter of authority or affidavit if someone’s verifying on your behalf
Important: Documents must be clear, recent, and valid.
Process
Wondering how the biometric verification works? It’s a simple, quick process.
What to do:
- Go to your nearest SASSA office, Post Office, or mobile SASSA unit
- Present your ID and all necessary documents
- Get your fingerprints and facial scan done
- Wait while the system confirms your details
- If there’s a mismatch, you may need to provide extra documents
- Successful checks will be confirmed by SMS
Deadlines
Missing your biometric check could mean grant suspension. Here are the key dates to remember:
| Important Dates | Details |
|---|---|
| 5 May 2025 | Biometric verification starts |
| 31 May 2025 | SRD R370 grant verification ends |
| 15 June 2025 | Deadline for Old Age & Disability |
| 1 July 2025 | Non-verified grants frozen |
| Ongoing | Child grants as per notification |
| Every 6 months | Re-checks for flagged accounts |
Payment
Your grant payment cycle is directly linked to your biometric status. Check the table below for your grant’s schedule.
| Grant Type | Payment Cycle | Biometric Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Old Age Pension | First week monthly | Yes |
| Disability Grant | First week monthly | Yes |
| Child Support Grant | Second week monthly | Yes |
| SRD R370 Grant | Last week monthly | Yes (by 31 May) |
| Foster Child Grant | With child grants | Yes |
| Care Dependency Grant | With disability | Yes |
| War Veterans Grant | With pensions | Yes |
If you skip verification, expect delays or suspension starting July.
FAQs
When do SASSA biometric checks start?
They begin on 5 May 2025 across South Africa.
Who must complete biometric ID verification?
All SASSA grant beneficiaries and new applicants.
What documents do I need for biometric checks?
Bring your ID, proof of residence, and SASSA card.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Your grant will be suspended or delayed until verified.
Where can I do my SASSA biometric check?
At any SASSA office, Post Office, or mobile unit.
