The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) introduced a Biometric Identity Verification System for recipients of the Special Relief of Distress (SRD) R370 grant (previously R350). This system was implemented to address growing concerns of fraud and impersonation in the application process. It ensures that only eligible applicants receive the grant by verifying their identity through advanced biometric technology.

Why Biometric Identity Verification is Necessary

Fraud and impersonation became significant issues in the disbursement of SRD grants, compromising the integrity of the system. To counter these challenges, SASSA adopted a Biometric Identity Verification System. This system identifies applicants flagged for suspicious activity or reported impersonation.

The process involves live photo verification, where applicants’ photos are matched against the official records in the Department of Home Affairs database. This ensures that only genuine individuals linked to the provided ID numbers gain access to the grant.

How the Verification Process Works

1. Notification via Application Status Check:
When checking their application status online, some applicants may see a prompt to verify their identity biometrically.

2. Requesting the Verification Link:
Applicants are required to click a link to request the Biometric Identity Verification Link. This link is sent to the phone number associated with their SRD grant application.

3. Live Photo Verification:
Using the link, applicants complete a live photo verification process. The system cross-checks their live photo with the one stored in the Home Affairs database.

4. Access Granted:
If the verification is successful, the applicant’s account is updated, and access to the grant is restored.

Despite the system’s efficiency, some applicants face delays or challenges in obtaining the verification link. Here are four practical ways to resolve this issue.

SASSA SRD Biometric Identity Verification

Four Ways to Request the Verification Link

1. Visit the Nearest SASSA Office

Some SASSA offices assist applicants with obtaining the verification link. This is particularly helpful for those who have lost the phone number used during their application. However, not all offices provide this service, so it’s crucial to check with your nearest branch.

2. Call the SASSA Hotline

The SASSA hotline, 0800601011, is available for grant-related inquiries. While reaching the call center can be challenging due to high call volumes, persistent attempts may result in success.

3. Email SASSA

Applicants can email [email protected] to request the Biometric Identity Verification Link. Be sure to include your South African ID number and a clear statement that you need the verification link. Although email responses may take a few weeks, it remains a reliable method to resolve verification issues.

4. Attend SASSA Outreach Visits

SASSA periodically conducts outreach programs in local communities to assist applicants with various challenges, including biometric verification. Check SASSA’s official Facebook page or other social media platforms for announcements about upcoming visits in your area.

Read Also: How To Submit Banking Details For SASSA SRD R370 Grant

Why Biometric Identity Verification Benefits Applicants

While the biometric system may seem inconvenient for some, it ultimately protects applicants by preventing identity theft and ensuring grants are disbursed fairly. Fraud prevention measures strengthen the integrity of the system and help ensure that financial aid reaches the intended recipients.

Final Thoughts

Applicants struggling with biometric verification should take proactive steps to resolve the issue using the methods outlined above. With persistence and the right approach, the verification process can be completed, enabling eligible individuals to access their much-needed SRD grants.

Stay informed by regularly checking SASSA’s official website and social media platforms for updates on grant processes and available assistance programs.

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126 Comments

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        2. Hello I’m ntando manya I’m sending this message to sassa grant I’m complaining about my sassa application identity verification it’s long since last year I haven’t send yet the Link of identity verification till now I have called many times they are telling me that the link will be soon send till now I haven’t received the link yet I’m asking the sassa to bring my paydates and my month’s so that I can get my money please I’m requesting this message

          Reply

    11. I’ve been struggling with my srd since last year December what should I cz I really needed this money

      Reply

  3. Hi sassa I am waiting 2 years for this money how long must I waiting for my bank account verified please this urgent sassa for srd grant I update my bank account please let know this urgently thanks Magdalena johanna olivier

    Reply

  9. I need too change my number last got paid in 2023 plus when I called said I can’t with my old I’d how will even make a new one if I have no money can’t borrow cause how will I pay it back if I don’t even no if I will get pay says decline since and I have no source of income please help I need the money my kids and I depend on it

    Reply

  11. My son just got one month 350and the other 2months say identification verification,and the other month say,s income source but he does not work still in school,so what must we do.

    Reply

  22. I’m having a problem with identity verification everytime I check it says id verification I don’t know what to do and before I only got 370r once it was April until today nothing

    Reply

  24. I did get 370 nou I’m not working always i check my status problem is verification request is failed

    Reply

  25. It’s been more than those 14 day Ive been to sassa thy sed thy will send me a link for verification of identity left my iD copy n the reason to come to sassa
    Can I please get the link

    Reply

  26. It’s been more than those 14 days I’ve been to sassa they said they will send me a link for verification of identity left my iD copy & the reason to come for to sassa
    Can I please get the link

    Reply

  29. Please send me the I’d verification link and the band the banking verification link please on this phone number 0603143850

    Reply

  46. I got the link but when I get in Applicant verification -srd grant -sassa,it says system is not available at this moment

    Reply

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