Changing your banking details for SASSA grants might seem easy, but even small mistakes can cause big problems. Missing a payment or getting disqualified can cause a lot of stress, especially when you rely on your grant to cover everyday needs.
Here’s a simple guide on the common mistakes to avoid when changing your SASSA grant banking details, so that your money keeps flowing smoothly.
1. Using Incorrect or Incomplete Information
Many people make the mistake of entering wrong information by accident. Maybe the account number is one digit off, or they forget to fill in some parts of the form.
Tip: Before you submit your details, double-check everything:
Your South African ID number
Bank name
Correct account number
Branch code
Type of account (savings or cheque)
Leaving any fields blank can also delay your payment.
2. Using a Bank Account Not Registered in Your Name
SASSA has strict rules to protect you from fraud. They only pay into a bank account registered in your name. If you give them details for your mother’s, father’s, or friend’s account, the payment will not go through.
Tip: Always use a personal bank account registered with the same name as your ID document.
3. Failing to Use a Registered and Active Phone Number
When you update your banking details, SASSA sends a secure link to your cellphone via SMS. If your phone number is not registered in your name or is not working, you won’t get this link and your update won’t be completed.
Tip: Use a cellphone number that:
Is registered in your own name (RICA compliant)
Is active and can receive SMS messages
4. Not Verifying Updated Details
Just because you submitted the form doesn’t mean your banking details were updated successfully. Always follow up to make sure the change has been processed.
Tip: Check your SASSA status online at srd.sassa.gov.za or call SASSA after one week if you don’t get confirmation.
5. Ignoring Required Supporting Documents
If you go to a SASSA office to change your details, you must bring certain documents. Missing any of these can cause major delays:
South African ID document or smart card
Proof of residence (e.g., municipal account or official letter)
Bank statement or letter from the bank showing your account details
Tip: Always bring originals and copies of your documents.
6. Submitting Details on Unofficial Websites
Be very careful. Scammers often create fake websites that look like SASSA’s official site. If you submit your banking information on a fake site, you risk losing your money.
Tip: Only update your details via:
srd.sassa.gov.za (official website)
SASSA local offices
Never trust links sent via SMS or WhatsApp that are not from official SASSA sources.
7. Overlooking the Need to Update for Each Grant
If you receive more than one SASSA grant, such as:
Social Relief of Distress (SRD)
Child Support Grant
Older Person’s Grant
You might need to update banking details separately for each grant. One update does not always cover all grants.
Tip: Ask SASSA or check online if your change applies to all your grants.
8. Not Withdrawing Remaining Funds from Old SASSA Card
If you are moving from your old SASSA card to a new bank account, don’t forget about any money still left on the old card.
Tip: Withdraw all the remaining funds before your new banking details are activated.
Quick Checklist for a Smooth Banking Details Update
Use your own, active bank account and cellphone number
Double-check all details before submitting
Submit all required documents if updating in person
Only use official SASSA websites or offices
Confirm that your banking details have been updated
Check also: SASSA Gold Cards Will Remain Active Beyond May 2025!
Changing your banking details for your SASSA grant should be quick and easy — if you avoid these common mistakes. Protect your money and peace of mind by following these simple tips. Remember, staying careful and double-checking everything will help ensure that your grant payments arrive on time every month.
