The SASSA has proved itself an essential organization for South Africans due to its amazing services in past years that include basic grants for people who can’t afford their bread and butter.
As SASSA adopted technology for its beneficiaries to save their precious time due to a high population count in South Africa, certain problem has also came into existence related to this technology adoption.
The most common problem SASSA beneficiaries face is to change their phone number they have given in the application form, but this problem isn’t permanent as it has solution that is to change phone number through the following process as officially told by SASSA.
Common Reason Can Lead You to Change Your SASSA Phone Number
There can be several reasons you might need to safely update or change your phone number with SASSA, such as:
- Lost or stolen phone/SIM card that was used in while application processing.
- Switched to a new number or a different network provider in South Africa.
- Security concerns like identity theft or something like this.
- An incorrect number was provided during SASSA application form processing.
Whatever the reason is that leads you to think of changing your phone number in the application, keeping your contact details current helps ensure you stay connected with important and officially announced updates about your grant or any policy changes happens at Sassa..
Methods and a Simple Process to Change Your Number
There are currently a few different but pretty easy to perform methods for updating your phone number on the SASSA system, depending on the type of grant you receive and your specific circumstances. Let’s look at each method one after one in detail so you can change it on your own without taking help from someone else..
1. Change Your Number for the SRD R350 Grant (Online Easy Method)
For those receiving the SASSA SRD R350 grant on monthly base, you can change your phone number directly on the SRD official website.
Follow these steps:
- Go to the SRD website: Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Scroll down to “How do I change my contact details?”
- Click on the option to change or update your contact information in your Sassa form.
- Enter your ID number and proceed.
- Follow the instructions to verify your identity. This may include receiving an OTP on your old number (if still active).
If you cannot access your old number, you’ll need to verify your identity using security questions or other verification steps. - Once verified, you can enter your new phone number and save the changes.
Important:
- Make sure your new phone number is officially registered by the service provider in your name (RICA’d).
- Use a number you can access frequently on your smartphone or the number you use in daily life..
2. Via SASSA Helpline or WhatsApp Support (for non techy)
If you are unable to update your details online, or if you are experiencing technical issues, you can contact SASSA through their customer support services.
SASSA Contact Details:
- Toll-free helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- WhatsApp line: 082 046 8553
When contacting them, make sure to have:
- Your South African government ID number.
- Old and new phone numbers.
- Reason for the change.
- Additional verification if required (e.g., answers to personal questions).
The support team will assist you in verifying your identity and guide you through updating your contact information.
3. Visit a Local SASSA Office (for General Grants)
If you’re receiving grants other than the SRD (e.g., child support, old age, disability), and need to update your contact details, it may be necessary to visit a local SASSA office in person.
What to bring:
- Your green ID book or smart ID card
- Proof of grant (e.g., SASSA card or confirmation letter)
- Old and new phone numbers
- Proof of address (sometimes requested)
A SASSA official will guide you and help you fill out a form to update your details in their system to change number.
Common Challenges and How to Solve Them
Problem: Don’t remember the old number you were using or lost access due to any reason
Solution: Contact SASSA directly via phone or WhatsApp using their number as told above and explain your situation clearly. You may be required to verify your identity with personal questions or documentation.
Problem: OTP not received which can be due to any technical or non technical reason
Solution: Ensure your new number is active and running with working network coverage. If the issue continues, contact support to troubleshoot or try again later.
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Update
- Keep your number active and accessible on your phone for updates and notifications.
- Check SMS regularly from SASSA to avoid missing important updates or messages.
- If you ever change numbers again, update your SASSA profile promptly, you can change by using the same process.
- Never share your OTP or personal info with strangers to avoid scams and for the safety of your grant money.
Final Thoughts
Changing your phone number on SASSA’s system may seem like a small task, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining uninterrupted access to your social grants. Whether you’re a recipient of the SRD R350 grant or any other type of verified financial support, keeping your contact details up to date and private helps prevent missed payments, fraud, and miscommunication. This will not be only help for you, even SASSA have benefits fo your smooth transactions as their resources get saved.