What To Do If Your SRD Grant Application Is Declined?

Receiving a “Declined” notification on your application for the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant might leave you feeling puzzled and anxious. Rest assured, despite the setback, there are still avenues available to you if SASSA refuses your SRD grant.

A declined status indicates that your application underwent scrutiny but fell short of meeting the criteria for the R350 monthly grant. The reasons for this can vary.

If you believe that you still meet the requirements and were unjustly turned down, you have the option to challenge the decision. Follow this guide to comprehend the next steps to take when your SRD grant status is marked as declined.

What are the Possible Reasons for SRD Application Rejection?

SASSA might reject your SRD grant application for a few common reasons:

  1. Exceeding income limit – Your earnings surpass the R350/month threshold, which renders you ineligible for the grant.
  2. Issues with ID or citizenship verification – Problems confirming your ID number, citizenship status, or refugee status.
  3. Concurrent reception of other grants – You cannot simultaneously benefit from the special COVID-19 grant.
  4. Incomplete application – Rejection due to missing documents or insufficient information.
  5. Failing other eligibility checks – Such as age, residency, marriage status, or employment status.
  6. Previous involvement in grant fraud – Prior misuse or abuse of SASSA grant funds.

Ensure You Fulfill the Requirements

Before contesting a declined status, double-check that you meet the SRD eligibility criteria:

  1. You are a South African citizen, permanent resident, or a refugee registered with Home Affairs.
  2. You are currently unemployed or earning below R350 per month.
  3. You are not receiving any other social grant.
  4. You are 18 years of age or older.

If you meet the requirements but were still rejected, take immediate action to file an appeal.

Steps to Appeal a Declined SRD Application

Here is a step-by-step procedure to appeal a declined SRD grant status:

  1. Collect any supporting evidence – bank statements, payslips, ID copies, letters from Home Affairs, etc.
  2. Lodge your appeal through email, phone call, or in-person. Provide your full name, ID number, and reasons for appealing. Explain why you believe you meet the criteria and should be approved. Include copies of any supporting evidence.
  3. Await SASSA’s reassessment of the application. The review process may take several weeks. Follow up if you do not receive a response.
  4. Monitor your status regularly. Log in to the SASSA portal to check if your status has changed to approved based on your appeal.
  5. Seek assistance from a legal aid clinic if you need help drafting or reinforcing your appeal.

With a compelling appeal that highlights your eligibility, there is a good chance of overturning your declined status.

How Long Does an SRD Grant Appeal Take?

There is no fixed timeframe for SASSA to process appeals, as each case varies in complexity.

However, expect the process to take between 2 to 8 weeks before your status may change from declined to approved after an appeal. Keep an eye on your status weekly during this period.

Note that submitting any missing documents as part of your appeal can expedite the reassessment.

Which Supporting Documents Should You Include?

To improve your chances of a successful appeal, make sure to provide:

  1. A copy of your ID – to demonstrate citizenship and age requirements.
  2. Proof of income – or the lack thereof. This can include bank statements, affidavits, payslips, etc.
  3. UIF letter – if you lost your job and have been attempting to claim UIF benefits.
  4. Disability grant letter – to show that you are not receiving any other grant.
  5. Proof of residence – to confirm your residency in South Africa.

Thoroughly substantiating your adherence to the SRD criteria with documents can override an initial rejection.

Can You Appeal Multiple Times if Declined Again?

If your initial SRD grant appeal is unsuccessful, you can continue appealing the decision each month that you remain declined.

Each appeal triggers a fresh evaluation of your eligibility. Persistence is key.

With each subsequent appeal, take the time to understand why SASSA maintains its rejection and directly address any outstanding issues in your explanations and documentation.

What to Do Next If Your Appeal is Successful

If your persistent follow-ups eventually result in your status being changed to approved, ensure to:

  1. Provide your bank details to receive payment.
  2. Inform SASSA if your circumstances change.
  3. Reapply on time before the expiration date.
  4. Adhere to all grant regulations and requirements.

Facing rejection can be disheartening. However, by consistently appealing an unfair decision and providing corroborating evidence, you can overturn your grant status, reinstating this financial relief when you need it the most.