SASSA Status Pending: Everything You Need to Know

When you apply for the SASSA R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, seeing a “pending” status can be confusing. We’ve broken down what “pending” means, why it appears, and what steps you should take to ensure your application progresses smoothly.
What Does “Pending” Mean on SASSA R350 Application?
Pending simply indicates that SASSA has not yet completed its assessment of your application. This status is typically displayed when:
- Initial Checks: Your details are still under verification.
- Verification Delays: External data checks, such as income or banking information, are still ongoing.
- High Application Volumes: SASSA may be experiencing high traffic, resulting in delays.
Key Reasons Your SASSA Application Status Remains Pending
- Income Verification: SASSA cross-references your income details with databases from SARS, UIF, and other institutions.
- Bank Account Verification: Verifying if your provided bank details match SASSA’s requirements can delay the approval process.
- Monthly Review Process: For SRD grants, each month involves a fresh verification process to confirm your eligibility.
How Long Does the “Pending” Status Last?
Based on the search results, a pending process can take anywhere from hours to months. On average, it typically takes up to 14 days to resolve.
However, some applications may take up to 3 weeks to process. Once approved, the payment processing time is usually up to 7 days.
If your status remains unchanged beyond two weeks, consider following up directly with SASSA.
Steps to Resolve a SASSA Pending Status
1. Confirm Your Details
Ensure the personal details, such as your ID number and bank account, are accurate. Any mismatch can delay your application.
2. Contact SASSA Support
If the status persists beyond the typical timeframe, reach out to SASSA’s customer support. Here’s how:
- Call SASSA Helpline: Use the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11.
- Email Support: Send an inquiry to GrantsEnquiries@sassa.gov.za.
- SASSA Branch Visit: Visiting a local branch can expedite resolution if phone or email support isn’t effective.
3. Keep Checking the Status
Checking your SASSA status regularly is recommended. If you notice any updates, follow the necessary actions promptly to avoid further delays.
Monthly Re-Evaluation and “Pending” Status
Each month, SASSA re-evaluates all applicants to ensure they still meet the criteria. This often leads to a repeat “pending” status even if you were approved in previous months. This process includes:
- Financial Assessments: SASSA checks for any changes in income.
- Bank Verification: Monthly checks to ensure continued eligibility.
This monthly re-evaluation process is intended to keep the SRD grant program fair and accurate.
Common Issues Leading to a Prolonged Pending Status
Bank Verification Failures
If SASSA cannot verify your bank account, your status may remain pending. This often happens due to:
- Incorrect Bank Details: Double-check your submitted bank details for accuracy.
- Inactive Bank Accounts: Ensure your bank account is active and can receive funds.
Income Verification Challenges
Income levels above the eligibility threshold result in rejections. Regularly monitor your other income sources to avoid complications.
Diagram: Monthly SASSA Verification Process
Here’s a flowchart representing the monthly re-evaluation process for SASSA SRD grants:
mermaidCopy codegraph TD
A[Applicant Submits Monthly Status] --> B[Income Verification]
B --> C{Income Below Threshold?}
C -- Yes --> D[Bank Verification]
C -- No --> E[Application Declined]
D --> F{Bank Details Match?}
F -- Yes --> G[Application Approved]
F -- No --> H[Further Review Pending]
How to Check SASSA Status Online
Checking your SASSA status online is straightforward:
- Visit the SASSA SRD Status Check: Go to the official SASSA website or use the Moya app.
- Enter Your ID and Phone Number: Use the information submitted in your application.
- Status Result: View your status to determine the current stage.
Alternative Methods to Check Status
- SMS Check: Send an SMS to the SASSA contact number for updates.
- WhatsApp Check: Use the SASSA WhatsApp line at 082 046 8553.
Frequently Asked Questions About SASSA Pending Status
Why Does My Status Say Pending?
Your application is undergoing verification. SASSA is likely confirming your details against their eligibility criteria.
Can I Receive a Grant After Seeing “Pending”?
Yes. Once verification is complete, your application status will likely shift to “Approved” if all criteria are met.
How Often Should I Check My Status?
It’s advisable to check weekly until your status updates to ensure any changes are immediately addressed.
Final Thoughts on Managing a Pending SASSA Status
Understanding what “pending” means on your SASSA application can reduce unnecessary stress. Ensure your details are correct, monitor your status regularly, and take proactive steps if delays persist. This way, you can navigate the application process smoothly and ensure you receive the financial assistance you qualify for.

I’m Luan Arno, the owner of Check-SASSA.co.za, where I help South Africans navigate SASSA services. As a father of two living in Johannesburg, I’m passionate about making essential information accessible to those in need. With a background in community service and digital communications, I aim to simplify the process of checking benefits. When I’m not working, I love exploring our beautiful country with my family. Thank you for visiting Check-SASSA!