When you check your SASSA Social Relief of Distress (SRD, also known as R370) application and your status shows “Pending”, it does not mean you have been declined.
It means that SASSA is still reviewing your application.
They may be verifying your identity, bank details, income, or other documents before reaching a final decision.
Here are common reasons “Pending” comes up, how long it can last, and practical steps to resolve it.
What causes a SASSA Pending Status?
Several things can lead to a “Pending” status:
- Verification of ID/information: SASSA checks with the Department of Home Affairs, SARS, UIF, etc. If your ID number, name, or other personal details do not match their records, this holds up the process.
- Banking or payment method verification: If you provided new or updated bank details, or asked for payment via a different method, SASSA may need extra confirmation from your bank.
- Incomplete or incorrect application details: Typos, missing information, documents not submitted, or wrong phone numbers or addresses can stall the process.
- High volume of applications or system delays: When many people apply or when there are technical or operational delays, “Pending” statuses may last longer.
- Monthly reviews or recurring eligibility checks: If you already have the grant, each month SASSA often checks whether you still qualify (income, other grants, etc.). That re-verification can put the status in “Pending”.
How long does SASSA Pending Status usually last?
The time “Pending” stays depends on the reason:
| Situation | Typical Duration |
| First-time application/identity verification | 7-14 working days (but can be longer) |
| Verification of bank or payment method details | 5-10 working days more after you submit the correct banking info |
| Monthly review / ongoing eligibility checks | 3-10 working days typically |
| Appeals or complex verification (identity mismatch, DHA delays, etc) | Up to 60-90 days in some cases |
If your status stays in “Pending” far longer than the norm (e.g., more than 30-60 days), it is reasonable to follow up with SASSA.
Will I still get paid if the status is pending?
No payments are released while your status is “Pending.” Approval must come first.
Once your application is approved, you should receive payment even for the earlier month(s) you applied, provided everything checks out.
Back payments are usually made if there was no fault on your part.
What to do if your status stays pending too long?
If SASSA Pending Status is lasting longer than expected, take these steps:
- Check all your submitted information carefully:
- Make sure your ID number, full name, surname, phone number, and bank details are correct and match what’s on your official documents.
- If you changed any details (name, address, bank account) since you applied, update them with both Home Affairs (if required) and SASSA.
- Confirm bank details and payment method:
- If status shows something like “Bank Details Pending,” you may need to provide or verify your bank account info. Use the SRD portal to update correctly.
- Use your own bank account in your name. Don’t use someone else’s account.
- Respond to document or verification requests:
- If SASSA asks for extra documents (proof of unemployment, proof of income, etc.), make sure you submit them quickly.
- Wait, but monitor:
- Check your status regularly (weekly or bi-weekly). SASSA may send SMS updates if anything is required from you.
- Be patient, especially when many people are applying. During peak times, delays are common.
- Contact SASSA if needed:
- If more than ~30-60 days have passed (depending on your specific situation) with no change, call the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11.
- Use WhatsApp status check (082-046-8553) if available. Some people find this faster.
- If possible, visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID, proof of banking details, and anything else to check your application.
What should you not do while SASSA Pending Status?
- Applying multiple times for the same period or submitting duplicate applications tends to confuse the system and may delay things further.
- Using bank accounts that are not yours or with mismatched names. That often leads to verification delays or failures.
- Ignoring SMS messages from SASSA. If they ask for info or documents, responding quickly helps speed resolution.
