Earlier this year, it was announced that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant was extended by twelve months and is set to end in 2024. However, many of the administrative aspects of the grant have changed, including the process of appeals.
Applications for the SRD grant must still be submitted to the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa). The agency will also make a determination as to whether or not you are deserving of the grant. However, Sassa will no longer be dealing with SRD grant appeals.
Unsuccessful SRD grant applicants who are not satisfied with Sassa’s determination of their SRD grant application are allowed to appeal the decision. These appeals or reconsideration requests must be sent to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA).
The Department of Social Development DSD revealed that the ITSAA will reassess the decision of Sassa against the available information at its disposal.
The DSD Said, “The Independent Tribunal will endeavour to finalise the appeal within 60 – 90 days from the date on which the appeal was received and inform the appellant electronically of the outcome of the appeal and reasons thereof.”
Here’s How To Submit A New R350 Grant Appeal
Step 1: Visit The New SRD Appeals Website
Step 2: Enter Your Identification Number
Step 3: Enter The Cell Phone Number You Used During The Application Process
Step 4: Click Send “Pin”
Step 5: Once you receive the OTP pin, you will be required to insert it and click “Submit”
Step 6: Select the month that you are appealing for
Step 7: Secret the drop-down arrow to choose the reason for your appeal application from the options provided
Step 8: Click “Submit” to complete the appeal application process
It’s important to note that you require the OTP to submit an appeal. This means that you need to have access to the cell phone you’re using during the application process. If you need to update your cell phone number, you must visit the Sassa R350 grant website at srd.sassa.gov.za
Applicants will need an internet connection and data to lodge an appeal. This is because no appeals will be done via WhatsApp, cell phones or any other means of communication.
Unsuccessful R350 grant applicants are reminded that an appeal application needs to be made in relation to each month where a person is rejected by Sassa if they believe they do qualify for the grant.
“The decision of the Independent Tribunal is the final decision and no further internal recourse will be available. If the applicant is not satisfied with the decision of the Independent Tribunal, they may approach the High Court for judicial review as provided for in the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000 within a period of 180 days,” concluded the DSD.
