SASSA offices across South Africa serve millions of grant beneficiaries daily. Knowing the exact working hours helps you avoid wasted trips and long queues at local branches.
SASSA Standard Working Hours
SASSA offices operate Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Some branches open between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM, closing between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM depending on location.
The working hours remain consistent across most branches nationwide. However, during periods of high demand or special circumstances, certain branches may extend their hours to 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and weekends.
SASSA Working Hours Schedule
| Day | Operating Hours | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Open |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Open |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Open |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Open |
| Friday | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Open |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Limited Service |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
SASSA Saturday Working Hours
SASSA now opens on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This extended Saturday service helps beneficiaries who cannot visit during weekdays.
Saturday schedule for SASSA offices runs from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, giving individuals an opportunity to take care of their social security needs outside of regular working days. Services on Saturdays include payment collection and SASSA status check inquiries.
Days SASSA Offices Are Closed
SASSA offices are closed on weekends and public holidays. SASSA does not operate on public holidays, as all services are suspended during national holidays.
South African public holidays when SASSA remains closed include:
- New Year’s Day (1 January)
- Human Rights Day (21 March)
- Good Friday (18 April 2025)
- Family Day (21 April 2025)
- Freedom Day (27 April)
- Workers’ Day (1 May)
- Youth Day (16 June)
- National Women’s Day (9 August)
- Heritage Day (24 September)
- Day of Reconciliation (16 December)
- Christmas Day (25 December)
- Day of Goodwill (26 December)
Best Time To Visit SASSA Offices
Long queues are common, arrive early with provisions. SASSA offices open between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM, so arriving early can help you secure a better spot in the queue.
Tips for Shorter Wait Times
Mid-week days (Tuesday to Thursday) are generally less crowded compared to Mondays and Fridays. Avoid payment dates when offices become overcrowded with beneficiaries collecting grants.
Visiting before opening times, bringing water/snacks and portable seating is strongly advised to withstand waits and be served same-day. Many people queue outside before 7:30 AM to guarantee service.
Special SASSA Office Hours
Some SASSA service points, especially those located within shopping centers or malls, may have different operating hours. For example, the SASSA service point at Maponya Mall operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays.
Shopping center SASSA points often have extended hours to accommodate shoppers and working people who visit malls after standard business hours.
SASSA Contact Information During Working Hours
You can contact SASSA by dialing their toll-free number, 0800 60 10 11, during working hours from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 16:00. The helpline operates during standard office hours.
For urgent inquiries outside working hours, visit the official SASSA website or your SRD SASSA status check online without visiting an office.
Services Available During SASSA Working Hours
During operating hours, you can access these services:
- New grant applications for disability, old age, and child support grants
- SRD status check and reapplications
- Grant payment collections
- Document verification and updates
- Appeal submissions for declined applications
- SASSA card replacements and renewals
How To Avoid SASSA Office Visits
If eligible, sign-up for direct deposits into a personal bank account to access funds anytime without visiting branches. Direct deposits eliminate the need to visit offices during working hours for payment collection.
Online services through the SASSA e-services portal allow you to check application status and submit certain forms without office visits. Use WhatsApp services for quick status updates.
FAQs About SASSA Office Working Time
What time do SASSA offices open on weekdays?
SASSA offices generally operate from Monday to Friday, opening between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM. Most branches open at 7:30 AM sharp.
Do SASSA offices work on Saturdays?
SASSA is now open on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Saturday service is limited to payment assistance and status inquiries.
What time do SASSA offices close on Friday?
The SASSA working hours on Friday are between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM. Friday closing times match other weekdays.
Are SASSA offices open on public holidays?
SASSA does not operate on public holidays, as all services are suspended during national holidays. Plan visits around official South African public holidays.
Which days have the shortest queues at SASSA offices?
Mid-week days (Tuesday to Thursday) are generally less crowded compared to Mondays and Fridays. Avoid Mondays and payment dates for faster service.
Can I call SASSA outside working hours?
You can contact SASSA by dialing their toll-free number, 0800 60 10 11 during working hours from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 16:00. The helpline only operates during office hours.
Do shopping mall SASSA points have different working hours?
Some SASSA service points, especially those located within shopping centers or malls, may have different operating hours. Mall locations often have extended hours including Sunday service.
What should I bring when visiting SASSA during working hours?
Bring your South African ID, birth certificates for children’s grants, and any relevant supporting documents. Visiting before opening times, bringing water/snacks and portable seating is strongly advised due to long waiting times.
Conclusion
SASSA offices maintain consistent working hours Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with limited Saturday service from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Know branch days/hours to access accounts with minimal disruption.
Plan your visits during mid-week days and arrive early to avoid long queues. Consider online services and direct deposits to reduce office visits during working hours. Always check for public holidays that may affect office operations before planning your trip to any SASSA branch.
