Seeing “Referred SAFPS” on your SASSA status check can feel overwhelming, especially when you need your R370 grant. If you see that your application is “Referred SAFPS,” it means the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service needs to check your ID or phone number more closely. Don’t panic – this doesn’t automatically mean you committed fraud, and there are clear steps to resolve this issue.
What Does Referred SAFPS Mean for Your SRD Grant?
A ‘Referred SAFPS’ SRD grant status means you are a risk to SASSA and you were therefore declined. SAFPS stands for Southern African Fraud Prevention Service, which is a non-profit organisation focused on fraud prevention and leading the fight against fraud and financial crime.
When SASSA processes your application, they run your ID number and phone number through their fraud risk scoring system. It is done by validating the applicant’s information with multiple criminal and fraud records databases, including the South African Fraud Prevention Services (SAFPS) database.
This verification helps protect the grant system from fraudulent claims and ensures only eligible people receive assistance.
Why Your Application Gets Referred to SAFPS
Previous Fraudulent Activity
Detection of a prior instance of social grant fraud linked to your ID number or personal details could prompt SASSA to refer your application to SAFPS for scrutiny. This happens if someone used your details before for grant fraud or if you previously submitted false documents.
Identity Theft Issues
Sometimes your details appear in the SAFPS database because someone stole your identity. This can occur if someone stole your identity, if there was fraud before, or even if some data matching was wrong. Identity theft victims often find their names flagged without their knowledge.
Multiple Application Submissions
If you submitted your SRD grant application multiple times or submitted different SASSA grant applications using the same detail. In that case, the SASSA system will identify your application as fraudulent, and your status will be referred. Always submit only one application per month.
Data Matching Errors
Technical glitches can cause false flags. Database errors sometimes incorrectly match your information with suspicious activity, leading to an unnecessary SAFPS referral.
How SAFPS Works with SASSA
Over the past decade, the SAFPS database has prevented R30.63-billion in fraud losses. The system helps protect South Africa’s social security system by sharing fraud information between financial institutions and government agencies.
When SASSA checks your application, they compare your details against SAFPS records to identify potential risks. The SAFPS assess applications against its database for potential identity theft/fraud risks.
How to Solve SASSA Referred SAFPS Status
Contact SAFPS Directly
Call SAFPS at 0860 101 248 or email [email protected]. Ask them specifically why your details were flagged and request documentation showing the reason for your listing.
Gather Supporting Evidence
Collect documents that prove your innocence:
- Affidavit from police if identity theft occurred
- Bank statements showing legitimate transactions
- Employment termination letters if relevant
- Any correspondence about previous fraud cases
Submit SASSA Appeal
Visit the SASSA appeals portal and submit your reconsideration request. The R370 grant appeal, often referred to as a request for reconsideration, is a formal process that allows applicants whose grants were declined to have their case reviewed by an independent body.
Include all supporting documents with your appeal and clearly explain why the SAFPS flag is incorrect.
Follow Up with Email
After resolving issues with SAFPS, send proof to SASSA at [email protected]. Include:
- SAFPS clearance letter
- Your ID number
- Month(s) affected
- Explanation of resolution
SRD Grant Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the R370 SRD grant, you must meet these criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee
- Age between 18 and 59 years old
- Unemployed or earning less than R624 monthly
- Not receiving other SASSA grants
- Not receiving UIF or NSFAS payments
- Have valid South African ID number
The increase has been confirmed for all recipients of the SASSA SRD grant under the Social Relief of Distress program, ensuring they now receive SASSA R370 funds instead of the previous R350 amount.
Appeal Process Timeline and Requirements
The SRD grant appeal cut off period is within 30 to 90 days of declined status. You must submit your appeal within this timeframe or SASSA won’t consider it.
This can take a significant amount of time, typically between 60 and 90 days. During this period, your appeal status will show as “Pending” or “Appeal Lodged.”
Required Appeal Information
When submitting your appeal, include:
- Specific reason for decline
- Clear explanation why decline is incorrect
- Supporting documents
- Your contact details
- Month(s) you’re appealing
Common SAFPS Issues and Solutions
Following is an estimate of how long will it take to solve SAFPS issues.
| Issue Type | Solution | Timeline |
| Identity Theft | Police affidavit + SAFPS clearance | 30-60 days |
| Data Error | Contact SAFPS with proof | 14-30 days |
| Previous Fraud | Legal documentation + clearance | 60-90 days |
| Multiple Applications | Withdraw duplicates + appeal | 30-45 days |
Preventing Future SAFPS Issues
Protect Your Personal Information
- Never share your ID number unnecessarily
- Keep your ID book and passport secure
- Report lost documents immediately
- Monitor your credit report regularly
Apply Correctly
- Submit only one application per month
- Use correct personal information
- Don’t submit multiple applications with different details
- Keep records of all submissions
FAQs About SRD Grant Say Referred SAFPS
What happens if SAFPS clears my name but SASSA still declines my grant?
If SAFPS removes your flag but SASSA maintains the decline, submit a new appeal with the SAFPS clearance letter. Include specific details about the clearance and request manual review of your case.
Can I apply for future months while appealing a SAFPS referral?
Yes, you can apply for new months while your appeal is Pending. However, the SAFPS flag may affect future applications until resolved, so prioritize clearing your name first.
How long does it take SAFPS to remove incorrect information?
SAFPS typically processes clearance requests within 30 days if you provide proper documentation. Complex cases involving legal issues may take 60-90 days to resolve completely.
Will a SAFPS flag affect my other grant applications?
Yes, SAFPS flags can impact any government grant application, including Child Support Grant, Disability Grants, and old-age pensions. Clearing your record protects all future applications.
What if I can’t reach SAFPS by phone?
If phone lines are busy, email [email protected] with your full details and explanation. Include your ID number, phone number, and specific information about your SASSA application decline.
Can I get legal help for SAFPS issues?
Yes, if your case involves serious fraud allegations, consider consulting with an attorney specializing in administrative law. Legal aid organizations also provide free assistance for qualifying individuals.
Conclusion
A “Referred SAFPS” status doesn’t mean your SRD grant journey ends. Most cases involve simple data errors or identity theft that you can resolve with proper documentation. Contact SAFPS directly, gather supporting evidence, and submit a thorough appeal to SASSA. Remember to apply within the 90-day appeal window and follow up regularly on your case. With persistence and the right approach, you can clear your name and receive the R370 monthly support you need.
