If your application to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) for a monthly grant was declined in 2025 you may still have the right to appeal.
Knowing the correct deadlines and steps is important to avoid losing your chance.
This article explains the appeal dates and deadlines for 2025, how the process works and what you need to submit so you can stay on track.
What is the SASSA appeal process for 2025?
When SASSA declines a grant, you may use the appeal process to request reconsideration.
According to the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) appeals page, you can lodge an appeal for each specific month in which your grant was rejected.
The appeal is submitted through the online portal of the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) under the Department of Social Development (DSD).
When must you submit your appeal?
You must act promptly when you receive a rejection notice.
Many sources indicate the time limit for lodging an appeal is within 90 days of the date of the rejection decision.
Some sources add that, in practice, you should aim to appeal within approximately 30 days of the decision for the specific month.
Which months can you lodge an appeal?
You may lodge a separate appeal for each month in which your grant was declined.
The portal requires you to select the specific month for which you were rejected.
That means if you were declined for June and then again for July, you must lodge two distinct appeals.
How long does it take for an appeal decision?
After you submit your appeal, the tribunal will review your case.
It is stated that the decision is typically communicated within 60 to 90 days of your appeal submission.
The review may take longer depending on backlogs or missing information.
What are the key steps to lodge your appeal?
Here are the standard steps:
- Visit the official SASSA SRD appeals portal at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/ and select “Lodge an Appeal”.
- Enter your South African ID number and the cell phone number used in your original application.
- Click “Send PIN” to receive a verification code on your phone, then enter the PIN.
- Select the month for which you are appealing, provide the reason for appeal, and upload any supporting documents if required.
- Submit the appeal and wait for confirmation. You will receive a reference number or SMS confirming the appeal.
What supporting information should you provide?
When you appeal, you should attach documents or provide reasons why you believe the decision was incorrect.
Typical reasons include income or asset thresholds incorrectly applied, incorrect identity verification, bank details not updated, or other eligibility issues.
Make sure your details match official records (for example, with the Department of Home Affairs) and that you supply any missing documentation promptly.
What happens after you submit the appeal?
Once your appeal is lodged, you can check its status online via the appeals portal. The decision will be communicated via SMS or email.
If your appeal is approved, your grant payments may be back-dated to the month you appealed for.
If the appeal is declined, you may have further rights, such as requesting a judicial review in the High Court.
