Proof of Residence – South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries must now urgently submit their updated Proof of Residence before 31 August 2025, or they risk losing access to their social grant payments. This critical update applies to all SASSA grants, including Older Persons, Disability, Child Support, Foster Care, War Veterans, and SRD grants. The requirement was introduced to improve verification processes, prevent fraudulent claims, and ensure that only qualifying residents continue to receive support. SASSA is aligning with government regulations that mandate periodic updates of personal information for social grant recipients. Many beneficiaries have not updated their address or residence status for years, which can lead to technical issues or payment delays. To avoid grant suspensions or delays starting from September 2025, beneficiaries must submit valid Proof of Residence documents at their nearest SASSA office, designated collection points, or upload them through the official online portal. Whether you’re receiving your payment through Postbank, your personal bank account, or cash send, submission is mandatory for continued access. Below is a comprehensive guide on who needs to submit, what documents are accepted, how to submit them, and what happens if you miss the deadline.
Who Must Submit Proof of Residence?
This requirement applies to all existing and new grant recipients across South Africa. It is not limited to any one type of grant.
The following beneficiaries MUST update their residential information:
- Older Persons Grant recipients (60+)
- Disability Grant recipients
- Foster Care Grant recipients
- Child Support Grant recipients
- War Veterans Grant recipients
- SRD R370 Grant recipients
- Grant-in-Aid beneficiaries
What Documents Are Accepted as Proof of Residence?
SASSA has issued a list of accepted documents that qualify as valid proof of where you live.
You can submit any ONE of the following documents:
| Document Type | Must Be In Your Name? | Issued By | Age of Document |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utility bill (electricity/water) | Yes | Municipality | Not older than 3 months |
| Bank Statement with address | Yes | Any Bank | Not older than 3 months |
| Lease or rental agreement | Yes or guardian’s name | Registered Landlord | Current year only |
| Tribal Authority letter | Yes | Tribal Office | Within current year |
| Letter from local councillor | Yes | Municipality | Within current year |
| Affidavit stating address | Yes | Commissioner of Oaths | Valid within 3 months |
| Post Office address verification | Yes | SAPO | Within current year |
How and Where to Submit Your Documents for Proof of Residence
Beneficiaries have the flexibility to submit their Proof of Residence in several ways to avoid long queues and ensure convenience.
Submission Options Available to All Beneficiaries:
- Visit your nearest SASSA Local Office with the required document.
- Submit your proof at Post Office pay points where SASSA officials are stationed.
- Upload via the SASSA official website under your grant profile.
- Use mobile units that visit rural areas on selected days.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit Before 31 August?
Failing to meet the deadline will result in temporary suspension or non-payment of your grant from September 2025.
Consequences of Non-Submission:
- Your grant payment will be paused until documents are verified.
- You may need to reapply for your grant if suspension extends beyond 3 months.
- Reinstatement of grants can take 4 to 6 weeks after submission.
- Additional visits to the SASSA office may be required for late filers.
How to Check If Your Proof Was Successfully Submitted
Once you submit your documents, it’s important to confirm that they were received and approved.
Verification Methods:
- Log in to your profile on the SASSA online portal.
- Use the USSD code 1203210# to check document status.
- Visit the SASSA office and ask for submission confirmation.
- Call the toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 to check approval status.
Common Status Messages:
| Status Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
| “Received – Pending Review” | Document submitted but not approved yet |
| “Verified – Active” | Document approved, grant will continue |
| “Rejected – Resubmit” | Document not valid, must be resubmitted |
| “Not Found” | No document linked to your ID, submit urgently |
Important Tips to Avoid Grant Delays
Taking action now can save you from long queues and grant suspensions.
Follow these tips:
- Photocopy and keep multiple versions of your proof document.
- Avoid expired or handwritten documents unless officially certified.
- Check spelling and address consistency with your ID book.
- Submit before 20 August 2025 if possible, to allow review time.
- Encourage your neighbors or relatives who are also beneficiaries to do the same.
SASSA Regional Office Contact Details
For region-specific support, you may contact the following SASSA offices:
Gauteng Regional Office:
- Address: 28 Harrison Street, Johannesburg
- Phone: 011 241 8320
KwaZulu-Natal Regional Office:
- Address: 1 Bank Street, Pietermaritzburg
- Phone: 033 846 3400
Western Cape Regional Office:
- Address: Golden Acre, Cape Town
- Phone: 021 469 0235
Eastern Cape Regional Office:
- Address: Bisho SASSA Complex
- Phone: 040 608 3600
Limpopo Regional Office:
- Address: 43 Landros Mare Street, Polokwane
- Phone: 015 291 7400
You can also email: [email protected] for assistance.
Failure to act in time may cause severe disruption in your grant payment. Submit your proof of residence today to avoid unnecessary stress in the coming months.
FAQs of Proof of Residence
Q1: Is it mandatory to submit Proof of Residence every year?
A1: No, but SASSA may request updates periodically for verification.
Q2: Can I use my parent’s or landlord’s name on the utility bill?
A2: Yes, but you must attach an affidavit confirming your residence.
Q3: What if I recently moved and don’t have a utility bill yet?
A3: You can use a letter from the ward councillor or tribal office instead.
Q4: Will my grant stop immediately after 31 August if I don’t submit?
A4: No, but it will be paused in September until documents are submitted.
Q5: Can I submit documents through WhatsApp or email?
A5: No, only the official SASSA online portal or physical offices are accepted.