SASSA Status Check: "Referred" – What Does It Mean & What's Next?

If you see the status "Referred" when checking your SASSA SRD grant application, it means your application requires further assessment or verification. This status is not a rejection, but it does mean your application won't be approved or declined immediately.

Why Your Application Might Be Referred:

  • Additional Verification: SASSA may need to confirm certain details in your application, such as your income, employment status, or identity.
  • Data Discrepancies: There might be inconsistencies between the information you provided and the data held by other government departments or financial institutions.
  • Special Cases: Your application might fall into a category that requires additional review, such as if you're a new applicant or if there have been changes in your circumstances.

What Happens Next?

When your application is referred, it means SASSA will conduct further investigation into your eligibility. This could involve:

  • Contacting You: SASSA might contact you directly to request additional documentation or information.
  • Data Matching: They will likely cross-check your information with other databases, such as the Department of Home Affairs or the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
  • Manual Review: In some cases, SASSA officials may manually review your application and any supporting documents you've provided.

The duration of this referral process can vary, but SASSA typically aims to resolve it within a few weeks. Once the assessment is complete, your status will be updated to reflect the final decision on your application.

What You Can Do:

  • Wait for Updates: Be patient and wait for SASSA to complete the referral process. They will notify you of the outcome.
  • Check Your Status Regularly: Keep checking your status on the SASSA website, through their WhatsApp number (082 046 8553), or by using the USSD code (*134*7737#).
  • Respond Promptly: If SASSA contacts you for additional information, respond as quickly as possible to avoid delays.
  • Contact SASSA (If Necessary): If you haven't received an update after a significant period, you can contact SASSA directly for assistance.