Getting the message “Incomplete Application Saved” when checking your SASSA status can be confusing and stressful. This status appears when you haven’t finished filling out all the required sections of your SRD grant application properly.
Many South Africans applying for the R370 Social Relief of Distress grant see this message and don’t know what to do next. The good news is that this problem can be fixed easily if you understand what SASSA wants from you.
What Does “Incomplete Application Saved” Mean?
When SASSA shows “Incomplete Application Saved” status, it means your application form was not completed properly before you submitted it. A message might read as: Application Incomplete – Waiting for Completion of Application.
This status tells you that SASSA has received some of your information, but important details are missing. Your application cannot be processed until you provide all the required information that SASSA needs to verify your eligibility.
The system saves your partial application so you don’t lose the information you already entered. However, you must complete the missing sections before SASSA can review your grant application properly.
Common Reasons for Incomplete Applications
Several things can cause your SASSA application to be saved as incomplete:
- Missing Personal Information: You might have left out important details like your full name, ID number, or contact information. Every field marked as required must be filled in correctly.
- Banking Details Not Provided: Seeing this status means Sassa has received your application or reapplication, but you did not submit your banking details or the preferred payment method. SASSA needs to know how to pay you if your application gets approved.
- Incomplete Address Information: Your residential address must be complete with street name, suburb, city, and postal code. Missing any part of your address can cause your application to be incomplete.
- Phone Number Issues: The cellphone number you provide must be active and correct. SASSA uses this number to send you important updates about your application status.
How to Fix Your Incomplete Application
Fixing an incomplete SASSA application is straightforward. Luckily, Sassa allows for applicants to withdraw their application at any point in time, meaning you could re-start the application process and submit a complete application the second time around.
- Check What Information is Missing: Visit the SASSA SRD website and log into your application using your ID number and phone number. The system will show you which sections need to be completed.
- Complete All Required Fields: Fill in every section that shows as incomplete or missing. Make sure all your personal details match exactly with your ID document. Double-check your banking information and phone number.
- Submit Banking Details: If your status shows you need to provide payment information, you will need to submit your banking details for the R350 grant application. Choose whether you want to receive payments through your bank account, Cash Send, or collection at retail stores.
- Verify Your Information: Before submitting, check that everything you entered is correct and complete. Spelling mistakes or wrong numbers can cause problems with your application processing.
How to Check if Your Application is Complete
After updating your incomplete application, you should verify that SASSA has received all your information:
- Online Status Check: Visit the SASSA status check page and enter your ID number and phone number. Your status should change from “Incomplete Application Saved” to “Pending” or another processing status.
- WhatsApp Method: Save 082 046 8553 as “SASSA” in your contacts. Send “Status” to this number and follow the prompts to check if your application is now complete.
- Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your banking details or selecting your payment method, wait a few days and then check your Sassa status again. SASSA needs time to update their system with your new information.
What Happens After You Fix the Incomplete Application
Once you’ve provided all the missing information, SASSA will begin processing your application properly. Your status will change from “Incomplete Application Saved” to one of these:
- Pending Status: means SASSA is now reviewing your complete application and checking if you meet all the requirements for the SRD grant.
- Identity Verification: SASSA will verify your details with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm your identity and citizenship status.
- Means Testing: The agency will check if you qualify financially for the R370 grant by verifying that you don’t earn too much money or receive other government benefits.
Tips to Avoid Incomplete Applications
Preventing incomplete applications saves you time and stress during the application process:
- Gather Documents First: Before starting your application, have your ID document, bank details, and contact information ready. This helps you fill in everything correctly the first time.
- Use a Stable Internet Connection: Poor internet can cause your application to not submit properly. Use WiFi or a strong mobile data connection when applying online.
- Complete the Application in One Session: Try to finish your entire application without stopping. If you must take a break, make sure to save your progress before closing the browser.
- Double-Check Everything: Review all your information before clicking submit. Make sure your ID number, phone number, and banking details are exactly right.
What to Do if Problems Continue
Sometimes you might still have issues even after trying to complete your application:
- Contact SASSA Directly: Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 if you keep getting the incomplete application message. They can help identify what specific information is missing.
- Visit a SASSA Office: If online methods don’t work, visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID document. Staff can help you complete your application properly.
- Appeal if Necessary: If your application keeps failing, you can submit an appeal through the SASSA appeals process to have your case reviewed manually.
Understanding Other SASSA Status Messages
While fixing your incomplete application, you might see other status messages:
- Application Received: This means SASSA has all your information and is processing your application normally.
- Payment Approved: Your application was successful and you’ll receive payment on the scheduled date.
- Declined: Your application was rejected, usually because you don’t meet the eligibility requirements or provided incorrect information.
FAQs About SASSA “Incomplete Application Saved” Meaning
How long does it take to fix an incomplete application?
Once you provide the missing information, SASSA usually updates your status within 2-3 working days. However, it can take longer during busy periods.
Can I apply again if my application stays incomplete?
Yes, you can withdraw your incomplete application and start fresh with a new application using the same ID number and phone number.
Why does my application keep showing as incomplete?
This usually happens when you’re missing banking details, have typing errors in your personal information, or haven’t completed all required sections of the form.
Will I lose my place in the queue if I fix my incomplete application?
No, completing your application doesn’t affect your processing order. SASSA processes applications based on when they receive complete, correct information.
Can someone else help me complete my application?
Yes, a family member or friend can help you complete the application, but you must use your own ID number and phone number for verification.
What if I don’t have banking details?
You can choose alternative payment methods like Cash Send or collection at participating retail stores when completing your application.
How do I know which information is missing?
Log into the SASSA portal with your details, and the system will highlight which sections need to be completed or corrected.
Can I complete my application using my phone?
Yes, the SASSA website works on mobile phones, but make sure you have a stable internet connection to avoid losing your information.
Conclusion
Getting an “Incomplete Application Saved” status from SASSA doesn’t mean your grant application is rejected. It simply means you need to provide missing information to complete the application process. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring all required details are correctly provided, you can successfully submit your SRD grant application and move forward in the approval process. Remember to check your status regularly and contact SASSA if you need additional help completing your application.
