The agency has addressed media reports that SASSA grant cancellations without review have been on the rise since May. Two months ago, the agency announced new identity and income review processes. However, the first wave of reviewed beneficiaries found the conduct abrupt.
Essentially, several thousand social welfare beneficiaries did not receive their monthly stipends. And were asked instead to report to a branch office to argue their case against SASSA grant cancellations. Civil justice groups were concerned that the mandatory three-month review process was being flagrantly ignored …
AGENCY DENIES SASSA GRANT CANCELLATIONS
Now, however, the South African Social Security Agency CEO, Temba Matlou, has taken to social media to defend the agency’s practices. In a recent release he says: “The department would like to categorically state that there have been no SASSA grant cancellations during our new review process. SASSA grants merely get delayed momentarily, until the beneficiary completes the verification process.”
Likewise, Matlou reaffirmed that the agency’s new review process is not punitive. But rather, “is intended to ensure the continued eligibility of recipients and prevent the misuse of public funds,” explains Matlou.
LARGE NUMBERS FLOCKING TO SASSA OFFICES
Moreover, the agency confirms, “the review of social grants is to identify clients who’s financial, legal or medical circumstances have changed suddenly.” However, concern over SASSA grant cancellations has seen an influx in beneficiaries visiting agency offices and causing severe backlogs.
As we ascertained in a recent report, during office hours, most SASSA branches are only able to handle about 500 transactions per day. Anyone left standing in the queue simply has to return again another day. As such, the SASSA CEO acknowledges that office capacity must increase across the country.
HOW TO RECTIFY YOUR SASSA PROFILE
Nevertheless, if you receive a text saying your SASSA grant is under review, be sure to have the following documents with you to argue your case with SASSA:
- Your official RSA identity document (ID).
- All documents proving marital status.
- Proof of residence (a utility bill with your name on it).
- Any confirmation of proof of income and/or financial dividends (means tests vary per grant).
- Up-to-date information regarding assets, valuation of property (asset test vary per grant).
- Declaration of private pension in your name.
- Valid three months’ statement certified by your bank (no older than three months’).
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership book, or discharge certificate from your previous employer.
- A copy of your will, and first and final liquidation and distribution accounts if your spouse has passed away in the last five years.
Previously, SASSA had a strict three-month review process if it thought your income or assets had suddenly improved.
DO YOU THINK THESE SASSA GRANT CANCELLATIONS ARE ABOVE BOARD?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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