The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has urged social grant beneficiaries not to panic if they are selected for a review, clarifying that the process does not mean their grants have been cancelled or suspended.
The agency says reviews are conducted to determine whether beneficiaries continue to meet the statutory requirements for the grants they receive, particularly those subject to a means test.
SASSA says beneficiaries’ circumstances may change over time, including their income, financial position, marital or residential status and, in the case of certain grants, their medical circumstances.
SASSA spokesperson Andile Tshona says the review process is an important verification measure to ensure that social grants continue to be paid to people who qualify.
He says being selected for a review should not automatically be interpreted as a decision to terminate a grant.
“SASSA conducts verification processes using information obtained, with the appropriate legal basis and consent, from relevant institutions and databases,” says Tshona.
He adds that SASSA’s consent documentation allows the agency to verify information such as financial status, income and bank account details when assessing eligibility for social assistance.