SASSA CEO, Mr. Themba Matlou, briefing the media about the social grant reviews that are being undertaken on targeted beneficiaries suspected of having additional sources of income that were not disclosed to the agency. Image: SASSA shared via Facebook.
(The Post News)– The South African Social Security Agency’s (SASSA) 210,000 beneficiaries are still in the dark, following unpaid grants.
However, SASSA has given an update regarding their review process for affected recipients, saying that these are targeted reviews to check the eligibility of beneficiaries for existing members’ information and if they still qualify for a social grant.
Themba Matlou, Chief Executive Officer for SASSA, said they derive their mandate from the constitution of the country and the SASSA Act, which is to administer and manage the payment of social grants to eligible beneficiaries. Matlou further noted that the agency has expressed concern over the current public outrage and confusion surrounding social grant payments—they realize the relevance of social assistance for millions of South Africans and desire to clarify the issue.
According to Matlou, Section 14(5) of the Social Assistance Act requires beneficiaries to notify SASSA of any material change in their circumstances, which includes financial and marital, as soon as reasonably possible. This law is also stated in the agency’s approval letter that beneficiaries receive.
Matlou said they had to follow the legislation, citing that it is important to clarify that SASSA conducts regular reviews as required by Regulation 30 of the Social Assistance Act, also adding that these reviews are important to ensure that every person receiving a social grant remains eligible based on their current circumstances.
He added that it is a legal requirement intended to protect the integrity of the social assistance program and ensure that public funds are directed to those who require them most. Moreover, recipients are alerted when their grants are due for assessment, and they encourage complete participation to prevent any disruptions.
Matlou clarified that no social grant payments have been suspended or halted and said all approved grants remain valid, and they are proceeding with payments processing. He assured beneficiaries with an active and valid grant that they would remain entitled to receive their payment.
Matlou further stated that they have introduced and implemented a ‘4th payment date’ to schedule their payments, which will allow the process of verification. This would guarantee that they are paid following the required review without interfering with other people’s regular payment cycle.
Matlou asserted that SASSA is aware of the complaints that beneficiaries are struggling with access to SASSA offices and also urged affected beneficiaries to contact SASSA through their email address or toll-free number.
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