SASSA launches drive to catch grant recipients hiding their income

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially initiated a verification campaign targeting grant recipients who have been flagged for potentially failing to disclose their income.

This crucial step comes in response to growing concerns over fraudulent claims and an imperative to ensure that social assistance benefits are received by those who genuinely qualify.

"Sassa continues to review social grants of targeted beneficiaries suspected to have other alternative sources of income that were not disclosed," the agency stated in a detailed announcement.

This proactive measure is designed to safeguard the integrity of the social grant system, ensuring funds are allocated appropriately and efficiently.

Beneficiaries who find themselves in this situation are strongly encouraged to submit specific documentation to avoid the risk of losing access to their social grants.

The urgency of this campaign cannot be overstated, particularly as Sassa adds that those who did not receive their monthly grants are advised to visit their nearest local office immediately.

"Clients who were not paid are requested to visit their nearest Sassa local office. Sassa will determine eligibility of the client upon review to check if the beneficiaries still qualify," officials confirmed, underscoring the importance of compliance in this vital process.

The consequences of non-compliance can be severe. The agency has warned that failure to adhere to the verification process may lead to the suspension of grants.

"Beneficiaries who fail to comply with this process risk having their grants suspended. Continued non-compliance may lead to the permanent lapsing of their grants," the statement cautioned.

Sassa has made available a comprehensive list of required documents for grant recipients. These include:

• A certified copy of the ID document or smart ID card (with the original).
• Bank statements for the past three months for all active accounts.
• Proof of discharge from the last employer or a sworn affidavit if unavailable.
• Certified birth certificates of children linked to the grant, plus affidavits confirming the whereabouts of biological parents.
• Documentation of property ownership, rates and taxes for unoccupied property.
• Any paperwork reflecting additional income.

This initiative is part of Sassa's ongoing commitment to transparency and fairness in the allocation of social grants, aiming to protect the system against misuse while ensuring that genuine beneficiaries receive the assistance they need.

IOL