On Monday, 9 June, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in the Gauteng Region acknowledged the concerns raised by beneficiaries who visited the Soweto Local Office at Maponya Mall regarding the alleged non-payment of their social grants.
SASSA Gauteng Region spokesperson, Lungelo Mkamba said: “The Agency wishes to assure affected beneficiaries and the public that most cases are directly linked to the ongoing social grant review process, a legislated requirement under the Social Assistance Act designed to confirm that social assistance continues to reach only those who genuinely qualify.
The review process is not punitive. It is a legal mechanism to verify that beneficiaries continue to meet the qualifying criteria for the grants they receive. Importantly, grants are not automatically cancelled. Every beneficiary selected for review is formally notified and given a reasonable opportunity to present themselves, confirm their circumstances, and submit supporting information before any decision is made.”
Beneficiaries are equally obligated by law to inform SASSA of any changes in their financial, personal, medical or marital circumstances that may affect their eligibility.
According to the report, in the 2026/27 financial year, the Soweto Local Office successfully completed 432 grant reviews. Many of those who came forward today were identified as beneficiaries who had been notified for a review but had not yet responded. SASSA officials attended to beneficiaries and guided them on the review process.
Mkamba added: “The Agency conducts reviews nationally through multiple verification methods, including income verification, medical assessments, and systematic data matching with the South African Revenue Service, credit bureaus, and relevant government departments.”
SASSA urges beneficiaries who believe their grant may be due for a review to visit their nearest SASSA office without delay, bringing their South African identity document and any relevant supporting documentation. “They are also encouraged to keep their contact details current and to respond promptly to any communication from SASSA regarding reviews, Mkamba said.
