How to Retrieve Lost SASSA Reference Number in 2025?

Have you misplaced your SASSA reference number and feeling a bit panicky? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many South Africans find themselves in this situation, but there’s good news: retrieving your lost SASSA reference number is easier than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about SASSA reference numbers, why they’re important, and how to get yours back if you’ve lost it.

How to Retrieve Lost SASSA Reference Number in 2024? (Short Answer)

To retrieve your lost SASSA reference number:

1. Dial *120*3210# on your mobile phone
2. Follow the on-screen prompts
3. Enter your South African ID number when requested
4. Your SASSA reference number will be displayed

What Is a SASSA Reference Number?

A SASSA reference number is a unique identification number assigned when you apply for an SRD R370 grant or other social grants. This number helps SASSA track your application, verify your details, and process appeals.

Why Is the SASSA Reference Number Important?

Your SASSA reference number is required for:

✔️ Tracking your grant application status
✔️ Appealing a declined SASSA grant
✔️ Updating banking details
✔️ Submitting a reapplication

Without this number, accessing your grant information becomes difficult and may cause delays in processing.

Common Reasons for Losing Your SASSA Reference Number

Here are some of the most common reasons applicants lose their reference numbers:

🔹 Misplaced Documentation – You wrote it on a piece of paper that got lost.
🔹 Technical Issues – A phone reset or app crash deleted your saved reference number.
🔹 Forgotten Details – You never saved the number after applying.

No matter the reason, you can retrieve your lost reference number quickly using the methods below.

How to Retrieve Your Lost SASSA Reference Number?

Method 1: Retrieve SASSA Reference Number via USSD (Fastest Method)

The quickest way to recover your SASSA reference number is through the USSD service on your mobile phone.

Steps to Retrieve Your Reference Number via USSD:

1️⃣ Dial *120*3210# on your mobile phone.
2️⃣ Follow the on-screen prompts.
3️⃣ Enter your 13-digit South African ID number when requested.
4️⃣ Your SASSA reference number will be displayed on your screen.

✔️ No airtime needed
✔️ Available 24/7
✔️ Instant response

Note: You must use the same phone number you used during your grant application.

Method 2: Retrieve Your SASSA Reference Number via WhatsApp

If you prefer using WhatsApp, SASSA provides an automated chatbot service.

Steps to Retrieve Your Reference Number via WhatsApp:

1️⃣ Save the SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553
2️⃣ Open WhatsApp and send the message “SASSA”
3️⃣ Follow the prompts and select “Retrieve Reference Number”
4️⃣ Enter your South African ID number when requested
5️⃣ Your reference number will be sent to you via WhatsApp

✔️ Quick and easy
✔️ No waiting on phone calls

Method 3: Contact SASSA Customer Support

If the USSD or WhatsApp methods don’t work, you can contact SASSA’s customer support directly.

Steps to Retrieve SASSA Reference Number via Call:

📞 Dial 0800 60 10 11 (SASSA’s Toll-Free Helpline)
📋 Provide your ID number and personal details for verification
✅ The agent will assist in retrieving your reference number

✔️ Speak to a real person
✔️ Get additional help if needed

Note: Call volumes may be high, so expect some wait time.

Method 4: Retrieve Your SASSA Reference Number at a SASSA Office

If other methods don’t work, visit your nearest SASSA office in person.

Steps to Retrieve Your Reference Number at SASSA Office:

1️⃣ Bring your 13-digit ID card or birth certificate.
2️⃣ Visit your nearest SASSA office (check hours before visiting).
3️⃣ Request assistance at the customer service desk.
4️⃣ Provide your ID number and personal details.
5️⃣ The agent will retrieve your reference number from the system.

✔️ Best for those who need in-person assistance
✔️ Can also update banking details or resolve other issues

What to Do After Retrieving Your SASSA Reference Number?

Now that you’ve recovered your SASSA reference number, take these steps to keep it safe:

✅ Save it in multiple locations – Write it down, save it in your phone’s notes, or email it to yourself.
✅ Check your application status – Visit SASSA Status Check to track your grant.
✅ Update your records – Ensure your phone number and banking details are correct.

How to Prevent Losing Your SASSA Reference Number Again?

Losing your reference number can be frustrating. Here are some tips to prevent this in the future:

🔹 Save it digitally – Store it in a secure phone app, email, or cloud storage.
🔹 Write it down – Keep a copy in a notebook or important documents folder.
🔹 Set a reminder – Take a screenshot and set a reminder to check where it’s saved.
🔹 Use multiple storage options – Keep both digital and physical records for safety.

By following these steps, you won’t have to go through the retrieval process again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I Retrieve My SASSA Reference Number Using Someone Else’s Phone?

No. You must use the same phone number you used during your grant application.

Q. What If I Don’t Remember Which Phone Number I Used?

Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID document. They can verify your details and provide your reference number.

Q. Is There a Limit to How Many Times I Can Retrieve My Reference Number?

No. You can use the USSD and WhatsApp methods multiple times to retrieve your reference number.

Q. Can I Use the USSD Method If I’m Outside South Africa?

No. The USSD method only works within South Africa. If you’re abroad, contact SASSA customer service for help.

Q. What Should I Do If the USSD Method Isn’t Working?

• Check if you’re using the correct phone number linked to your grant.
• Try an alternative method (WhatsApp, phone call, or visit a SASSA office).
• Contact SASSA customer service for assistance.