Update or Change Your SASSA R350 Banking Details Online

If you receive the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant from SASSA (often referred to as the “R350 grant”), the bank account into which your payments are made must be correct, active, and in your own name. 

If you have changed banks, closed your account, or used the wrong account during application, you can update these details, and doing so online is usually the quickest option.

Why you need to update your banking details

Your grant payment won’t reach you if your banking details are incorrect, closed, or in someone else’s name. SASSA requires that:

1. The account is in your name exactly as your ID.
2. The account is active and able to receive deposits.
3. You used the same mobile number you originally applied with, because the update process uses SMS verification.
   If you don’t update your details before a payment cycle, the payment might be delayed or rejected.

How to update your banking details online

Here’s a step-by-step approach that most beneficiaries can follow:

1. Go to the official SASSA SRD portal: https://srd.sassa.gov.za.
2. On the portal, select your category (South African ID holder or asylum/refugee permit holder).
3. Scroll to the section labelled something like “How do I change my banking details?” or “Update banking details”.
4. Enter your 13-digit South African ID number (or file number if an asylum permit holder) and the mobile number you used when you applied.
5. You will receive a secure SMS link (or OTP) to the registered number. Click the link.
6. In the link, follow the prompts: enter your bank name, branch code, account number, and account type (savings / current) — ensuring it’s an account in your name.
7. Review and submit the details.
8. Wait for confirmation via SMS or check back in your status portal to see if the update has been applied.

It’s essential to double-check every field before submitting because errors (a mis-typed account number, wrong branch code, wrong account type) can delay payment.

How long does it take and what happens next?

After you submit your new banking details:

1. SASSA will verify your account with the bank and possibly with the Department of Home Affairs (for ID match).
2. Typically, this verification takes 5-10 business days, though it could take longer in busy months.
3. Your payments will start going to the new account once the verification process is complete. Until then, you might still be paid into your old account (if active) or payment might be paused.

What if you can’t update online or don’t have the registered phone number?

If you no longer have the mobile number you used when you applied, you must update your phone number first, because the SMS link is sent there.

Alternate methods:

1. Call SASSA toll-free at 0800 60 10 11 and request a banking details update. Be ready with your ID number and registered mobile number.
2. Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID document and proof of bank account, and ask for help updating your banking details. Sometimes this method is slower, but it works if you cannot use the online method.

Some rules and common mistakes to avoid

1. The bank account must be in your name (no shared accounts, no someone else’s account).
2. Avoid updating banking details just before a payment cycle if possible — last-minute changes may delay your payment.
3. Verify the details you submit are correct (account number, branch code, account type). Mismatches cause rejection.
4. Do not rely on links from unverified sources. Always use the official SRD portal or SASSA website. There are scams where people try to trick you with fake links.

When should you update banking details?

You should update your banking details if any of the following apply:

1. You changed banks or closed your old bank account.
2. The account you used is dormant or can no longer receive funds.
3. Your name has changed (marriage/divorce), and the bank account name no longer matches your ID.
4. You used the wrong bank account during the application and need to correct it.

Updating ahead of your next payment window helps avoid delays or missed payments.

What to do after you’ve submitted the update

After submission:

1. Wait the specified verification period (5-10 business days) and then check your status at the portal using your ID and mobile number.
2. On your scheduled payment date, check your new bank account to ensure the funds arrive.
3. If payment still doesn’t appear after your payment window and you confirmed your banking update was approved, contact SASSA with your reference number.
4. Keep screenshots or SMS confirmations of the update submission for your records in case of issues later.