If your grant application with SASSA shows the status “Identity Verification Failed,” you may still be able to correct this and proceed.
This error means SASSA could not match your personal details with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) database, or the biometric check failed.
Knowing the common causes, steps to fix the issue, and how to appeal is important so you don’t lose your grant.
What does Identity Verification Failed mean?
When your SASSA application shows “Identity Verification Failed,” it means your ID number, full name, surname, or other personal details did not align with DHA’s records.
It can also mean your biometric data (if required) did not match or your ID document is not valid in the system.
Because SASSA uses the DHA database for verification, any mismatch can trigger this status.
Why does verification fail?
There are several common reasons:
- You entered your ID number or name incorrectly – even a small typo will cause the match to fail.
- Your details at DHA have changed (e.g., name change, document update), but the update hasn’t been reflected yet.
- Your ID document is outdated, invalid, or unregistered in the DHA system.
- The biometric check (face scan, fingerprint) fails – especially if you have an older ID book or poor biometric quality.
- There are technical or system issues at SASSA or DHA delaying the match.
How to check which details are incorrect
Start by logging into the SASSA SRD status portal using your ID number and mobile number.
Check what reason is provided for the failure; often it shows “identity verification failed, details mismatch”.
Then compare your application details with your actual identity document: full name, surname, ID number, and date of birth. Ensure they match exactly.
If you recently changed any of those at DHA (for example, name change) check the status of that update.
How to fix your personal details so verification can pass
- Visit your nearest DHA office or use their online services to confirm your ID number, name, surname, and date of birth are correct and updated in the system.
- Once DHA confirms your records are correct, go back to your SASSA application and update your details if you entered them incorrectly.
- If you use a different mobile number from the one you used when you applied, update it. A mismatched phone number can delay things.
- If you have an older green bar-coded ID book instead of a smart ID card and your biometric check failed, ask DHA about applying for a smart ID card because newer systems may require it.
How to appeal or reapply after verification failure
If you are sure your details are correct and the verification still failed, you can appeal.
You typically have up to 30 days from the date of the failure to appeal. Steps:
- Visit the SASSA SRD appeals portal.
- Enter your ID number and registered mobile number.
- Select the month and reason for your appeal (for example, “Identity verification failed – I have updated my details”).
- Upload proof such as a DHA update receipt, smart ID card, or other documents showing your details are now correct.
After the appeal, SASSA will review your case and update your status once resolved.
What if system or biometric issues are causing the failure?
Some failures happen not because of your details but because of system or biometric capture issues.
For example, your finger might not register during a biometric scan, or the server might be down. In such cases, you may:
- Try the verification again at a different time or at a SASSA office where manual biometric capture is available.
- If you believe it’s purely a system issue, contact the SASSA helpline or visit a branch to highlight the problem.
How long does it take after you fix the issue?
Once you’ve updated your details or lodged an appeal, your status should reflect within a few days, though it can take longer during peak periods.
Meanwhile, keep checking your status regularly.
If your payment was delayed because of the failed verification, you should see the status change once you are verified.
