Why Your SASSA Grant Application Was Declined?Possible Reasons & Solution Read this article to know the Possible reasons behind Declining your SASSA Grant Application With its Solution to fix it.
Reasons Why Your SASSA Grant Application Got Declined
Decline Reason | Meaning |
alternative_income_source_identified | The client had funds flowing into their bank account more than the specific income threshold for that specific period. August 2021 – March 2022 = R595 April 2022 – July 2022 = R350 August 2022 – March 2023 = R624 |
Indentity_verfication_failed | The personal details provided during their SRD grant application did not match their details according to home affairs |
Existing_sassa_grant | The client is receiving another grant from Sassa |
Debtor | The client was paid the R350 grant for months when they didn’t qualify. This client will only receive new SRD grant payments wants they pay back the money they received previously when they did not qualify for the SRD grant |
Nsfas_registered | Sassa detected that the client is receiving funds from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) during the period of consideration |
UIF_registered | Sassa detected that the client is registered with the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) during the period of consideration |
Gov_payroll_registered | The client was in the employment of a government institution during the period of consideration |
age_outside_range(>60) | The applicant does not qualify for the SRD as they qualify for the older persons grant |
age_outside_range(<18) | The applicant does not qualify for the SRD grant as they qualify for the child support grant |
Deceased Record on DHA | The client was registered as deceased on the Department of Home Affairs website during the period of consideration |
If your SRD grant application is rejected, you have the right to submit an appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). The ITTSA will consider appeal and will provide you with their decision within 90 days
The ITSAA works independently from Sassa and can take up to three months to evaluate appeal applications
The ITSAA warned that when clients fail to submit an appeal, they will sustain Sassa’s original decision to reject the grant application. This is because if no appeal request is made, it would indicate that the client has accepted the decision made by Sassa to reject their grant application.
How to Fix SASSA Declined Grant Application
How To Send Your Appeal
- Go to Sassa Appeals Website
- Enter ID number
- Enter telephone number
- Lodge appeal
If you’ve already lodged an appeal, you will then not need to send another or contact the SASSA office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why was my SASSA grant application declined?
It may be due to income, UIF, incorrect details, or eligibility issues.
Can I appeal a declined SASSA application?
Yes, you can submit an appeal through the official SASSA system.
Does UIF affect SASSA approval?
Yes, UIF registration or payments can lead to rejection.
Can I reapply after rejection?
Yes, if your situation changes or errors are corrected.
How long does an appeal take?
Usually a few weeks depending on verification.
What if my banking details are wrong?
Update them to match your ID and try again.
Does SASSA check income?
Yes, income verification is part of the process.
Can I be rejected for having another grant?
Yes, receiving another SASSA grant may disqualify you.
What if my ID is incorrect?
Your application may be automatically rejected.
Where do I submit an appeal?
Through the official SASSA online appeal platform.
Can multiple applications cause rejection?
Yes, duplicate applications may be flagged.
Is rejection permanent?
No, you can often appeal or reapply.
Do I need to visit SASSA office?
Only if online support does not resolve the issue.
Can I fix my details after rejection?
Yes, you can update and reapply or appeal.
What is the most common reason for rejection?
Income above the eligibility threshold.
Does SASSA notify rejection reasons?
Yes, usually via SMS or online status check.
Can I still get approval later?
Yes, if you become eligible or fix issues.
What if my appeal is rejected?
You may need to reapply or wait for eligibility changes.
Is the appeal process free?
Yes, it is completely free.
Who manages SASSA applications?
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).


