If you’re applying for the SRD R370 Grant or another benefit through SASSA and you receive a message saying “identity verification required,” you must complete the process online to avoid payment delays.
This article explains the identity-verification steps via the SASSA portal, why it is needed, how to do it securely, what to do if you fail, and how to check your verification status.
What does identity verification on the SASSA portal mean?
Identity verification means that SASSA is checking your details (ID number, name, mobile number) against the database of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
You may receive a status such as “Identity Verification Requested.”
The process often includes an SMS link and may involve a selfie or biometric step.
Completing this step is mandatory for your grant application to continue.
Why must you verify your identity on the portal?
Verification is required to prevent fraud and ensure that benefits reach the correct recipients.
When your information does not match the DHA records, SASSA flags your application.
If you do not complete the identity verification, your payment could be delayed or withheld.
How to initiate verification on the SASSA portal
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal for the SRD status check and verification.
- On the portal, enter your 13-digit South African ID number and the mobile number you used when you applied.
- If your application is flagged for verification, you will receive an SMS with a secure link.
- Click the link promptly (it usually expires after 72 hours) and follow the on-screen instructions, which may include uploading a selfie or doing facial recognition.
What information and conditions should be observed when completing verification?
- Ensure your mobile number is active and matches the one registered with SASSA. If the number is wrong, you will not receive the SMS link.
- Check that your ID number, name, and surname exactly match what appears on your ID document and DHA record. Typos or mismatches cause failures.
- When you submit a selfie or biometric check, do so in a well-lit area, remove hats or sunglasses, face the camera directly, and follow any on-screen prompts carefully.
- Use a reliable internet connection and complete the process in one session if possible. Exiting midway may invalidate the link.
How long does the verification process take?
After you click the link and submit the required steps, your status will change once SASSA reviews it.
Some sources say it may take 3 to 7 working days for the verification to reflect as “Verified.”
Until verification is completed, your grant payment may remain on hold.
If successful, your status will show that your identity is verified, and your application will proceed.
What if your verification fails or you did not get the link?
If your status shows “Identity Verification Failed” or you did not receive the SMS link:
- Double-check that your ID number, name, and mobile number are correct and match DHA records. Mistakes here are the most common cause of failure.
- Ensure your mobile number is active and correctly registered with SASSA. If you changed your number after the application, you may need to update it.
- If no link arrives within 2-3 days, you may request a new one or call SASSA’s helpline: 0800 60 10 11.
- If repeated attempts fail, you may need to visit your nearest SASSA office for manual verification.
How to check your verification status and what the messages mean
You can check your verification status on the same SRD portal by entering your ID number and mobile number.
Common messages and their meaning:
- Identity Verification Requested – You must complete the process.
- Identity Verification Failed – The process did not succeed; you must fix the issue and retry or go in-person.
- “Verified” or similar – Your identity check is complete, and your application moves on.
If your status stays pending too long, check with SASSA.
