How Long Does it take for a SASSA Appeal to be Approved?

Have you submitted a SASSA appeal and are unsure how long it will take for approval? Waiting for financial assistance can be stressful, and knowing the exact processing time is crucial. Here’s a clear breakdown of SASSA appeal timelines, ensuring you know what to expect.

How Long Does it take for a SASSA Appeal to be Approved? (Quick Answer)

A SASSA appeal is processed within 60 to 90 days by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). Applicants receive an electronic notification once a decision is made. To avoid delays, submit complete and accurate details promptly. Check your appeal status via https://srd.sass

Understanding the SASSA Appeal Process

If your Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant or any other SASSA application is denied, you can appeal the decision to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA). This tribunal reassesses SASSA’s decision using available data and verifies eligibility against the Social Assistance Act, 2004 and the latest COVID-19 SRD regulations.

SASSA Appeal Processing Time

The timeline for processing SASSA appeals varies. According to official guidelines:

• You must submit an appeal within 30 to 90 days of receiving your rejection.
• The Independent Tribunal will process and finalize your appeal within 60 to 90 days from the date of submission.
• You will be notified electronically about the outcome once the decision is made.

This means that SASSA appeal approvals typically take between 2 to 3 months, depending on workload and verification processes.

Factors That Affect Appeal Approval Time

Several factors influence the processing time of a SASSA appeal:

• Verification Checks: The tribunal reassesses financial eligibility using bank verification databases and other relevant sources.
• Application Volume: A high number of appeals can slow down processing times.
• Accuracy of Your Appeal: If supporting documents or details are incorrect or missing, delays may occur.
• Monthly Re-Evaluation: If appealing an SRD grant rejection, each month requires a separate appeal, meaning multiple appeals could affect response time.

How to Check Your SASSA Appeal Status?

To track your SASSA appeal status, visit the official SASSA website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/ and enter your ID number and phone number used in your application.

Alternatively, you can contact ITSAA for appeal status updates:

• Phone: 012 312 7727
• Email: [email protected]
• Fax: 086 534 3124 or 086 216 371
• Mail: Private Bag x 901, Pretoria, 0001

Why Appeals Can Be Rejected Again?

Even after an appeal, SASSA applications can still be declined if:

• The applicant’s income exceeds R625 per month (for SRD grants).
• There are discrepancies in the information provided.
• Bank verification data shows financial assistance from other sources.
• The qualifying criteria under current regulations are not met.

If your appeal is denied, your final option is to approach the High Court for judicial review under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000, within 180 days of the decision.

Tips to Expedite Your SASSA Appeal Approval

To avoid unnecessary delays, follow these steps:

• Submit your appeal promptly (as soon as you receive a rejection notice).
• Ensure all personal details are accurate to prevent verification issues.
• Provide supporting documents if required.
• Check your status regularly and follow up with ITSAA if needed.

Conclusion

A SASSA appeal can take between 60 to 90 days to be processed. Ensuring accuracy in your application, submitting within the deadline, and staying updated on your status can help speed up approval. If you are eligible, you will receive notification of the outcome electronically.