Why Your SASSA Status Check Failed – What to Do Next

It’s frustrating when you try to check your SASSA SRD/R370 status and you get a “Failed” message. 

It does not always mean your grant is rejected. Many times it’s due to some mismatch or system issue. 

Here are the most common reasons, and the steps you should take to fix the problem.

What does Status Check Failed mean?

When SASSA says “Status Check Failed,” it often means the system could not match the information you submitted with what is on record. 

It might be your identity verification, personal details, or banking info. It might also be a technical or system error.

It’s different from “Declined.” “Failed” often means something prevented verification, not that you are disqualified.

Why might identity verification fail?

Identity verification failure is one of the top reasons for a failed status check. Some causes are:

1. Your name, surname or 13-digit ID number does not exactly match what’s in the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) records. Even a typo or a missing part of the name can cause failure.
2. If you recently changed your name (marriage, divorce, legal name change) and Home Affairs has not yet updated records, SASSA’s system still reads the old name and might reject yours.
3. Using a nonstandard or invalid ID document. If your ID is expired or not registered, the system may not be able to verify you.

What about banking or contact details mismatch?

Even if your identity matches, other mismatches can cause “failed” status:

1. Bank account number, branch code, or account name does not match your ID record. If your bank account is in someone else’s name, or the name is spelled slightly differently, this can cause issues.
2. Your phone number used may not be the one you used during the application. Or the SMS verification link is sent to a number that is no longer active under your name.

Could technical, system, or timing issues be the cause?

Yes. Sometimes it’s not your mistake:

1. The SASSA portal might be down, undergoing maintenance, or overloaded. High traffic during payment periods or after announcement of deadlines causes delays or failures.
2. Your internet connection, browser, or device might be causing loading or compatibility problems. Cache or cookies might need clearing.
3. If you just submitted your application, the system may not have processed it yet. Sometimes there is a lag of 1-2 business days before the status is visible.

Does failed mean I can’t ever get the grant?

Not necessarily. A “Failed” status often means there is something you can correct. 

Once you fix the mismatch or provide the correct info, the status can change.

However, if the system deems you ineligible because of income, duplicate applications, or other policy reasons, then it may lead to a permanent rejection.

What steps can I take to fix the failed status?

Here are concrete things to try:

1. Double-check all your details: Ensure your name, surname, ID number, phone number, and banking details match exactly what is on your ID and with the Department of Home Affairs. Fix typos and update any changed info.
2. Update DHA records if needed: If Home Affairs has old information, go to your nearest DHA office with your ID or any legal documents showing a change of name, etc., and request updates.
3. Respond to verification prompts (SMS/email): If you receive a link for identity verification or biometric confirmation, follow it. If you did not receive it, check spam, and check that you have the correct contact info.
4. Try the check again during off-peak times: Later in the day, or early morning, when system traffic is lower. Use a browser, clear cache, try a different device.
5. Visit a SASSA office if none of the above works. Bring your ID, proof of address, bank statements, or other documents that could show the correctness of your details. Staff can assist in person.

When should I appeal, and how?

If you are sure your information is correct and you’ve done everything above, but the status still shows failed, you can appeal:

1. Submit your appeal through the official SRD appeals portal.
2. You need your ID number, the phone number used, and possibly documentation showing your identity or updated banking or DHA records.
3. Appeals may take 60 to 90 days for a decision in some cases. Be patient and check regularly.