Facing delays with your SASSA SRD grant? One common issue is using someone else’s cellphone number. To receive your payments on time, applicants must verify their applications with numbers registered in their own names for accurate and secure processing.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) reminds SRD grant applicants to use cellphone numbers registered in their own names. This verification step ensures faster approval, prevents payment delays, and protects against fraud. Using personal numbers allows beneficiaries to receive updates, confirm details, and securely track their R370 SRD grant application status online.
Why SASSA Requires Personal Cellphone Numbers?
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has made it clear that every applicant for the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant must use a cellphone number registered in their own name. This requirement helps SASSA verify each applicant’s identity, reduce fraudulent activity, and ensure payments reach the right person.
When an applicant registers with a number belonging to another individual, the verification system often fails. This leads to delays or failed grant disbursements. According to SASSA’s November 2025 notice, this step is part of the agency’s broader effort to protect beneficiary data and improve payment accuracy. However, if you wanna change your SRD Phone Number, you can read a separate guide on our website.

How Verification Works
Verification is a security measure that confirms that your personal details, cellphone number, and banking information match. SASSA uses data from telecommunication providers and banking institutions to cross-check that the registered cellphone number belongs to the applicant.
If mismatched information is detected, for instance, if the phone number is under another person’s name the system automatically flags the application. This means no grant payment will be made until the correct details are submitted and verified.
SASSA states that once your banking and cellphone details are verified, payments are scheduled for the next available pay run.
Importance of Using Your Own Cellphone Number
Using your own cellphone number offers multiple benefits beyond payment security. It allows you to:
- Receive real-time notifications: SASSA sends SMS alerts about application progress, status updates, and verification requests directly to your registered number.
- Prevent fraud: Personal registration helps ensure that funds are transferred only to the rightful beneficiary.
- Simplify communication: You can easily access OTPs (One-Time Pins), reminders, or payment confirmations without third-party interference.
- Track your application: Access to your personal number means you can check your SRD grant status on srd.sassa.gov.za at any time.
These steps are crucial for maintaining accountability and ensuring that the R370 SRD grant benefits the intended recipients.
Steps to Apply for the SRD Grant Correctly
To apply for the SASSA SRD R370 grant, follow these verified steps:
- Visit the official portal: Go to srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Select your category: Choose between South African ID Holders or Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders.
- Enter personal details accurately: Include your ID number, full name, and cellphone number registered in your name.
- Provide banking information: Ensure your bank account belongs to you and matches the same ID used for your SASSA registration.
- Confirm verification: Respond promptly to any SMS verification codes or messages from SASSA.
This process allows SASSA to validate your application quickly and release payments efficiently.
What Happens If You Use Another Person’s Number?
Applicants who use cellphone numbers not registered in their names face verification failures. In such cases, SASSA’s system cannot confirm ownership, which causes payment rejection.
Additionally, using another individual’s number can expose applicants to security risks such as:
- Unauthorized access to personal information
- Missed payment notifications
- Fraudulent activity or identity theft
To resolve such issues, SASSA recommends updating your details on the SRD portal immediately and ensuring all future communication occurs through your personal, registered number.
SASSA’s Emphasis on Data Security
SASSA continues to strengthen its verification processes to protect beneficiaries from identity fraud. By integrating its systems with mobile networks and financial institutions, the agency ensures every applicant’s information is securely validated.
According to SASSA’s communication department, using a personal number helps the agency maintain compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), which safeguards citizens’ data against unauthorized use.
Need Help? Contact SASSA Directly
If you experience difficulties during verification, contact SASSA’s toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 during working hours, Monday to Friday.
You can also visit your nearest SASSA office for in-person support or submit queries through the official SASSA social media pages for verified updates.
Key Takeaway
To ensure fast, secure payments of the SASSA R370 SRD grant, always register and verify using your own cellphone number and banking details. This simple step prevents payment delays, protects against fraud, and guarantees that your grant reaches you, the rightful beneficiary.

My name is Sibongile Nkosi, and I create clear and practical guides to help people understand SASSA Services with confidence. I’ve spent years learning how these systems work, and I enjoy explaining everything in a simple way so you can solve your problems quickly, without stress.
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