Seeing a status of “Referred SAFPS” on your COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant application can be confusing. But don’t worry, you can take steps to resolve this status flag.
A Referred SAFPS status means SASSA flagged a potential fraud risk based on your ID and phone number. However, this can sometimes be triggered in error.
If you believe this flag is inaccurate in your case, you can lodge an appeal to have your grant status reviewed again. Follow this guide to understand what “Referred SAFPS” means and how to fix it.
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What is SAFPS?
SAFPS stands for the South African Fraud Prevention Service. This is a division within SASSA that screens grant applications for fraud risk.
When you apply for the SRD grant, SASSA runs your ID number and phone number against the SAFPS database. If it flags a match, your status is marked as “Referred SAFPS”.
This means they suspect you may have committed social grant fraud previously. So your new SRD application requires further fraud investigation before approval.
Why You May Get a Referred SAFPS Status
There are two main reasons your SRD application may end up as Referred SAFPS:
- You have committed social grant fraud before – such as lying about your income, place of residence, marital status etc. SAFPS keeps these records.
- Your ID number is similar to another fraudster – an accidental partial match triggered the fraud flag.
Unless the flag is incorrect, SASSA will not approve an SRD grant with a Referred SAFPS status upon this fraud suspicion.
How to Appeal and Resolve the Status
If you believe the Referred SAFPS status is inaccurate in your case, promptly appeal the decision:
- Gather evidence – bank statements, payslips, affidavits, ID copies etc.
- Submit appeal online – at srd.dsd.gov.za within 30 days of rejection.
- Explain why you don’t have fraud risk – provide any documents to back this up.
- Follow up every 2 weeks – phone call or in-person visit until an outcome.
With evidence disproving fraud, SASSA can override the erroneous SAFPS flag and approve your SRD application.
Why You Should Avoid Grant Fraud
While falsely accused fraud is frustrating, actual grant fraud harms South Africa. It’s important to always provide truthful information when applying for grants.
Committing social grant fraud is illegal and can lead to:
- A fine of up to R40,000
- Imprisonment for up to 10 years
- Being unable to access grants in future
Rather pursue legitimate income sources than risk fraud. Report any suspicious grant activity you observe as well.
How to Check and Monitor Your Status
After appealing a Referred SAFPS status, be sure to:
- Log in and check your status regularly via the SASSA SRD portal.
- Provide any requested documents – to aid SASSA’s re-verification and review.
- Follow up if still pending after 6 weeks – appeal again if needed.
- Notify SASSA if your circumstances change – such as getting a job.
Persistence and patience is key if inaccurately flagged for possible fraud. With an effective appeal, you can get your status updated and approved.
What to Do If Appeal Successful
If your diligent follow-ups lead SASSA to overturn the Referred SAFPS status, be sure to:
- Provide your bank details to start receiving payments.
- Reapply on time when the grant period expires after 3 months.
- Abide by all SASSA’s SRD grant rules and conditions.
Being inaccurately flagged for grant fraud can cause great stress. But consistently appealing the decision with evidence can help resolve the erroneous fraud suspicion, restoring this important financial relief when you truly need it.
Hello, I’m Dumisani Joubert, a passionate writer and advocate based in South Africa. With a deep commitment to providing accessible information, my website serves as a reliable resource for all things related to SASSA grants, offering valuable insights and guidance to empower individuals and communities.
