If you have checked the status of your Social Relief Distress (SRD) grant application and found it marked as ‘Referred,’ Do you know what it means?
What Triggers a ‘Referred’ Status?
A ‘Referred’ status indicates that your application has been chosen randomly for internal verification and quality assurance.
This step was implemented by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in response to audit findings and public complaints regarding grant exclusions.
The aim is to ensure the integrity of the process and minimize the risk of fraud.
Who Qualifies for SRD Grants?
Amidst the widespread job losses triggered by the global COVID-19 pandemic, a significant portion of South Africa’s population relies on social grants.
The Department of Social Development (DSD) specifies that SRD grants are aimed at individuals aged 18 to 59 who lack any form of income support and are experiencing financial strain due to pandemic-induced unemployment.
Originally slated to conclude in March 2022, the SRD grant has been extended until March 2023. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that this extension aims to prevent any individual in the country from experiencing hunger and indignity.
What to do if you get Referred as SASSA Status
If your SRD grant application is marked as ‘Referred’, it means that additional verification is underway. This process is important for ensuring that the grant reaches those who genuinely need it and prevents any misuse or fraud.
While it may cause a slight delay in the processing of your application, it ultimately serves to uphold the integrity of the grant system.