The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has rolled out a nationwide biometric ID verification process for all grant recipients starting this month.
This major step aims to curb fraud and make sure social grants reach the right hands—whether you’re receiving the Older Persons Grant, Child Support Grant, Disability Grant, or the new Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG).
With millions depending on these grants, it’s critical to understand what this change means for you. Will you still get your payment? Do you have to visit a SASSA office? Let’s break it all down.
Purpose
So why is SASSA doing this now? It’s part of a national effort to modernize welfare systems and tackle common issues like identity fraud and ghost beneficiaries.
Main goals behind biometric ID checks:
- Stop fraudulent claims using fake identities
- Ensure recipients are alive and present
- Block unauthorized access to grant funds
- Improve payment security
- Align with international welfare standards
Biometric
Biometric verification uses personal features—like your fingerprint or facial scan—to confirm who you are. Unlike passwords or ID cards, these details are unique to you and hard to fake. SASSA is now using this method to verify recipients during monthly payouts.
This verification is already required at ATMs, Post Offices, and SASSA offices during payment days.
Who
If you receive any SASSA grant, you must verify your ID biometrically. The process will be rolled out in stages, depending on your grant type.
Biometric Verification Deadlines
| Grant Type | Biometric Deadline | Where to Verify | Required Documents | Age Group | Can Use Phone? | Must Visit Office? | Penalty for Non-Verification |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | May 31, 2025 | Post Office / SASSA | ID + Proof of Residence | 60+ | No | Yes | Grant Suspended |
| Disability Grant | June 15, 2025 | SASSA Medical Desk | ID + Medical Certificate | 18–59 | No | Yes | Grant Paused |
| Child Support Grant | June 30, 2025 | Bank / SASSA / Clinic | ID + Child Birth Certificate | Parents/Guardians | Partial | Yes | Payment Delays |
| Foster Care Grant | July 10, 2025 | Welfare Dept. / SASSA | Court Order + ID | Foster Parents | No | Yes | Suspension Notice |
| UBIG (Universal) | July 31, 2025 | SASSA Office / Mobile Van | ID Only | 18–59 Unemployed | Yes | Optional | Auto-Deactivation |
| SRD Grant | May 20, 2025 | Online + SASSA Visit | ID + Online Form Confirmation | Unemployed Adults | Yes | Yes | Application Denied |
Steps
SASSA has streamlined the process to make it accessible, but deadlines are strict. Missing your biometric check means missing your grant.
Biometric Verification
- Go to your nearest SASSA office, Post Office, or mobile verification van.
- Bring your ID and any required documents (medical papers, child birth certificates, etc.).
- A SASSA officer will scan your fingerprints or take a facial photo.
- You’ll get a confirmation slip once your verification is complete.
- Check your status online after 48 hours to confirm successful registration.
Can’t make it to a SASSA office due to health or disability? A home visit can be arranged upon request.
Impact
No biometric verification means no money. That’s the bottom line.
Here’s how your payments might be affected:
- Delayed payments if you verify late
- Immediate suspension or deactivation if you miss the deadline
- Banks may now also require biometric scans at ATMs
Payment Impact
| Month | Payment Type | Verified Beneficiaries | Non-Verified Beneficiaries | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | Older Persons Grant | Paid on May 3 | On Hold | Deadline: May 31 |
| May 2025 | SRD Grant | Paid on May 6 | Not Processed | Must verify by May 20 |
| June 2025 | Child Support Grant | Paid on June 5 | Pending Manual Review | Final grace period for missed verification |
| July 2025 | Disability Grant | Paid on July 7 | Suspended if not verified | Medical extension applies in some cases |
| August 2025 | UBIG | Paid on August 1 | Auto-Deactivated | Mobile verification must be completed |
If You Miss It
If you don’t complete your biometric verification by your grant’s deadline:
- Your payments will be paused or suspended
- You may need to reapply from scratch
- You’ll have to submit extra documentation proving your identity and eligibility
Avoid this mess by verifying early. It’s quick, free, and ensures you continue getting your grant without any hiccups.
FAQs
Who must complete SASSA biometric ID?
All grant recipients, including UBIG and SRD beneficiaries.
What if I miss my verification deadline?
Your grant may be suspended or require reapplication.
Can I verify my identity with a phone?
Some grants allow mobile verification, but office visits may still be needed.
When will my grant be affected if I delay?
Payments may be delayed or stopped from the following month.
Can home visits be arranged for biometric ID?
Yes, in special cases like illness or disability.
