What To Do If Your SRD Grant Application Is Declined?

Seeing a “Declined” status on your COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant application can be confusing and concerning. But don’t worry, you still have options if SASSA denies your SRD grant.

A declined status means your application was reviewed but did not meet the eligibility criteria for the R350 monthly grant. The reasons can vary.

If you believe you still qualify and were wrongly rejected, you can appeal the decision. Follow this guide to understand next steps when your SRD grant status shows as declined.

Why Your SRD Application May Be Declined?

There are a few common reasons why SASSA may reject your SRD grant application:

• Income too high – You earn over the R350/month threshold. Any income disqualifies you.
• Failed ID or citizen verification – Issues confirming your ID number, citizenship status, or refugee status.
• Already receiving other grants – You cannot double-dip on the special COVID-19 grant.
• Incomplete application – Missing documents or information caused a rejection.
• Failed other eligibility checks – Such as age, residency, marriage status, employment status.
• Previously committed grant fraud – Prior abuse or misuse of SASSA grant funds.

Confirm You Meet the Requirements

Before appealing a declined status, double check you meet the SRD eligibility rules:

• South African citizen, permanent resident and refugee registered with Home Affairs
• Currently unemployed or earning below R350 per month
• Not receiving any other social grant
• Age 18 years and older

If you qualify but were still rejected, immediately act to appeal.

How to Appeal a Declined SRD Application

Follow this step-by-step process to appeal a declined SRD grant status:

1. Gather any evidence – bank statements, payslips, ID copies, letter from Home Affairs etc.

2. Submit appeal via email, phone call or in-person. Provide your full name, ID number, and basis for appealing. Explain why you believe you qualify and should be approved. Include copies of any evidence.

3. Wait for SASSA to reassess the application. The review process can again take weeks to complete. Follow up if you don’t hear back.

4. Check your status regularly. Log in to the SASSA portal to see if based on your appeal, your status changes to approved.

5. Get help from a legal aid clinic if you need assistance with writing or motivating your appeal.

With a strong appeal highlighting your eligibility, you have a good chance of getting your declined status overturned.

How Long Does an SRD Grant Appeal Take?

However, expect it to take 2 to 8 weeks before your status may change from declined to approved after an appeal. Continue monitoring your status weekly during this period.

Be aware that submitting missing documents as part of your appeal can help fast track the reassessment.

What Supporting Documents to Include

To boost your chances of a successful appeal, make sure you provide:

• Copy of your ID – proves citizenship and age requirements.
• Proof of income – or lack thereof. Bank statements, affidavit, payslips etc.
• UIF letter – if you lost a job and have been trying to claim UIF benefits.
• Disability grant letter – show you don’t receive any other grant.
• Proof of residence – to confirm you live in South Africa.

Thoroughly proving you meet the SRD criteria with documents can override an initial rejection.

Can I Appeal Multiple Times If Declined Again?

If your first SRD grant appeal is unsuccessful, you can continue re-appealing the decision every month you remain declined.

Each appeal initiates a fresh review of your eligibility. Persistence is key.

With each subsequent appeal, take time to understand why SASSA maintains your rejection and directly address any outstanding issues in your motivations and documents.

Next Steps If Appeal Successful

If your diligent follow-ups finally lead to your status changing to approved, be sure to:

• Provide your bank details to receive payment
• Notify SASSA if your circumstances change
• Reapply on time before expiration
• Comply with all grant rules and requirements

Getting declined can be disappointing. But consistently appealing an unfair rejection and supplying supportive proof can help get your grant status overturned, restoring this financial relief when you need it most.