SASSA launches online portal for grant applications
The online portal is a pilot project and will at this stage cater for child support, older persons and foster child grants.
LIMPOPO – South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says social grant applicants can now apply for certain grants online.
According to a statement issued by the agency, a recently launched pilot project will, at this stage, cater for those who wish to apply for child support, older persons and foster child grants. “The other grants will be added once the system has been reviewed,” says the Zwannda Kutama, agency spokesperson.
“This should be a relief to grant applicants as it will save them the inconvenience of standing in queues at SASSA offices in order to apply for their grants. The added advantage is that the convenience of online applications eliminates the risk of being infected with the Covid-19 virus because there will be no need to gather at public places in order to apply.”
Kutama added that the remote self-service can be accessed from a computer and a mobile phone. To access this service, applicants need to have an email address to sign up and to be able to login for further services.
Those who wish to apply online can visit the following link: https://services.sassa.gov.za This will enable access to the following SASSA services:
- Applications for grants for Foster child grant, Older persons grant and Child Support grant
- Online submission of the required supporting documentation linked to the application;
- Change of circumstances (Payment method, banking details, address);
- Status of application
“It is important to note that required supporting documents to be attached must be certified. These documents should be certified by a commissioner of oaths.”
Feedback to applicants will be sent through SMS notification to applicants with no email addresses and an email response will be sent to applicants choosing to be contacted by email. A receipt will be generated when the application is completed. The turnaround time is 10 days, provided the applicant supplies all the stipulated documents such as identity documents of applicant and spouse as well as banking details among others.
The testing of the system will run from 14 September 2020 till 25 September 2020.
