HOW LONG DOES SASSA PENDING TAKE?
As a SASSA beneficiary, there is nothing more frustrating than waiting for your application status to change from “Pending” to “Approved.” SASSA has already announced it takes at least 90 days to process your applications, so a pending status for 90 days is normal.
However, if it has been longer than that and your application status is still stuck on “Pending,” you need to look into this matter. A pending status essentially means your application is under review. But how long does SASSA pending take? Can you expedite the process? Read this article to find out. Additionally, we have also added some ways you can fix the pending status if it is taking too long. Let’s dive in!
Why is my SASSA status still pending?
There are various reasons why your SASSA status may be pending. High application influx, incomplete documentation, and documents verification are a few to name. Here is an in-depth breakdown of common reasons why your SASSA status is still pending.
High number of applications
The official SASSA social assistance report March 2024 reveals approximately 156 724 new applications were processed by the end of the month. This shows the high volume of applications received by the department which may cause a backlog.
Incorrect or incomplete information
This is one of the most common reasons behind SASSA pending status. Failure to provide necessary documents such as your South African ID or bank statement may cause delay in the process. Furthermore, incorrect information, such as phone number and ID number may also lead to delay in your application approval.
Technical faults
Although rare, the SASSA website may sometimes delay your application process due to technical issues. The technical glitches can hamper your approval, leading to pending status way beyond the 90-days waiting period.
Verification process
It takes a lot of time to manually verify the details on each application and forward it for approval. Hence, your SASSA status may show pending for some time. Your applications are checked against several databases, including the Department of Home Affairs, South African Revenue Services, Unemployment Insurance Funds, and NSFAS funds verification. Once SASSA confirms you are not receiving funds from any other service, your application is forwarded for verification of your ID and phone number.
How long does SASSA pending take?
SASSA status pending means your application has been submitted but it is awaiting verification for approval. Once your documents and information have been verified, your SASSA application will be approved. Although there is no fixed time period, you should wait for at least 90 days before you start worrying about your pending SASSA application.
Depending on the number of applications, SASSA funds, and submission of documents, the entire process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. You need to be patient during this time. Although checking your application status does not change it, keep checking your SASSA status so you know when your application is approved.
How do I fix pending status on SASSA?
If your SASSA application still shows pending even after 90 days, you need to follow-up for an update. Here are a few ways you can contact SASSA to make the process quicker.
Contact SASSA on WhatsApp
Save the SASSA WhatsApp number 082 046 8553 in your phone and message them asking about your application. You will be required to provide your 13 digits South African ID number, reference number, and phone number to verify your identity. Provide correct details and wait for their response.
Call the SASSA helpline
You can also call the toll-free helpline number 0800 60 10 11 and press the button corresponding to the option to talk to an agent. Explain your issue to the SASSA representative and provide your details for verification. The agent will look into the system and let you know if your application is missing any information.
Visit SASSA office
Visiting the SASSA office in person is the most efficient way of fixing your pending status. Visit a nearby office and request the representative for an update on your application. Don’t forget to take your South African ID, reference number, and phone number for verification of your identity.
Provide complete documents
Your application may also be pending approval due to some missing documents or incorrect information. Check your application status regularly on the portal to ensure your application has complete documents. In case of insufficient documents, edit your application and submit after attaching your documents and rechecking your information.
What does your SASSA application status mean?
It is not necessary that your application shows pending. There are other SASSA statuses as well which can delay your approval. You should know what it means when your SASSA status shows “Application complete” or “Declined.” Let’s find out!
Pending
If your SASSA status shows pending, it means your application is under verification. After verification, your application will either be accepted or declined.
Application complete
Application complete means you have submitted all the details and SASSA will soon review your documents and information and forward your application.
Approved
If you fulfill the eligibility criteria and your application is complete, SASSA will approve your application. Check the portal for the payment dates and collect your grants on the specified date.
Declined
In case you do not fall under the eligibility criteria, or there is some discrepancy in your documents, your application will be declined and you will not receive any grant. You can appeal this decision and reinstate your application by providing further documentation.
Suspended
A suspended SASSA status means you have been registered as deceased on the Department of Home Affairs database. Thus, you are not eligible to receive any grants. You can appeal this decision after correcting the mistake in the database.
How to check SASSA status?
Checking your SASSA status regularly will ensure you stay on top of your application and receive all updates without any delay. Fortunately, you can check your SASSA status online easily with just a few clicks.
Make sure you have your ID number, application number, and registered phone number to verify your identity. Here are some ways to check your SASSA status:
FAQs:
Conclusion
There is no definite answer to how long does SASSA pending take. Therefore, you should wait patiently for at least 90 days before taking any measures. After 90 days, check your SASSA status and contact the SASSA department to get an update on your application.
Don’t lose hope! A pending SASSA status does not mean your application was rejected. Sometimes the process takes more than 90 days due to high influx of applications or tedious verification process. Make sure you provide complete information and documents to avoid any delay from your end.
