ShopRite has partnered with SASSA to make grant collection easier for millions of South Africans, especially with the SASSA Gold Cards being phased out by 28 February 2025. You can collect your payment from any ShopRite, Checkers, Usave, or selected OK Foods supermarket across the country.
How to Change Your Payment Method to ShopRite
Using the Online Portal
Visit the SASSA SRD website at srd.sassa.gov.za to change your payment method. The process works like this:
- Access your profile using your ID number and registered cellphone number
- Click on the secured link sent to you via SMS
- Select “ShopRite” as your SRD grant payment method from the options
- Read and agree to the terms and conditions presented
- Submit the form and wait for SASSA verification, which takes up to 14 business days
Using ShopRite Money Market Account
SASSA grant beneficiaries can switch their payments to a ShopRite Money Market Account – South Africa’s lowest cost, fully fledged, transactional bank account. Here’s how:
- Register by dialing *120*3534# OR WhatsApp 087 240 5709 OR visit the in-store Money Market counter
- Sign in and download your Bank Confirmation Letter
- Download the SASSA form or collect one at the Money Market counter in any ShopRite or Checkers supermarket
- Take your printed Bank Confirmation Letter, completed SASSA switch form and original ID to your nearest SASSA office
Requirements to Collect SASSA Grant from ShopRite
Before heading to ShopRite to collect your grant payment, ensure you have these essentials:
Essential Documents
- Your South African ID card (or alternative identification for asylum seekers or special permit holders)
- The cellphone number you used to apply for your SASSA grant
- The message from SASSA confirming the approval of your grant for the current month
Additional Requirements
You must present your ID and the registered cellphone number at the till point for verification. The cashier will use this information to verify your identity and confirm that your grant is available for collection.
Collection Process at ShopRite
Visit During Operating Hours
Most ShopRite stores are open from 8 AM to 6 PM Monday to Friday and from 8 AM to 5 PM on weekends and public holidays.
At the Store Counter
- Go to the till point and inform the teller that you are here to collect your SASSA R350 payment.
- The teller will ask for your ID number and the cell phone number you used to apply for your SRD grant.
- You must also show the SASSA SMS confirming your R350 approval for the current month.
Security Verification
- After the initial verification, an OTP code will be sent to your registered phone number. The OTP is required to prevent fraud and ensure that only you can collect your R350 payment at ShopRite.
- Once you receive the OTP, approve it on your phone. Once the verification process is completed, the teller will hand over your R350 payment to you.
SASSA Payment Dates for 2025
Checking when your grants become available is crucial for planning your collection:
Regular Grant Payment Schedule
SASSA splits grant payouts to streamline processing, with specific dates for different grant types:
- Older Persons Grant: First week of the month
- Disability Grant: Second week of the month
- Children’s Grant: Third week of the month
SRD R370 Grant Payment Timing
The SRD R370 Grant does not have a fixed payment date and is typically processed during the last week of the month. Each month, once your SASSA application is approved, you need to do a SRD status check. If it shows ‘Approved’, a ‘Payday’ or payment date will appear.
Check SASSA Payment Dates for further information.
Collection Methods Available at ShopRite Stores
Cash Collection
Beneficiaries can collect cash at designated retailers such as Pick n Pay, ShopRite, Checkers, Boxer, or USave. These locations are equipped to handle SASSA payments efficiently.
SASSA Card Usage
The SASSA Gold Card functions like a regular bank card and can be used at ATMs or retail points of sale. However, all current SASSA Gold Cards will stop working on 28 February 2025, irrespective of the expiry date written on the card.
Money Market Account Benefits
ShopRite Money Market Account offers no monthly fees, clients only pay a flat R5 fee for cash withdrawals. All other transactions are free and no other South African bank account matches this offer.
How to Check Your SASSA Status Before Collection
Online Status Check
Check SASSA status by visiting our homepage and entering your ID number and registered cellphone number. Your payment dates for the current and past months will appear once you enter the application ID and phone number.
WhatsApp Method
The official SASSA WhatsApp Number 082 054 0016 provides SRD status for R350 applicants. This is the WhatsApp method and it doesn’t require airtime, just an active Wifi connection.
SMS Status Check
Open the mobile phone messaging app and type STATUS <space> ID number, then send the message to 32555.
Important Safety Tips for Grant Collection
Fraud Prevention
SASSA cautions R350 grant beneficiaries against sharing their personal information with strangers. Beneficiaries will never be asked to enter personal information on their cell phones or click on any links during the collection process.
Collection Safety
Criminals often target beneficiaries, so vigilance is key. Avoid drawing the full amount at once. Retailers like Shoprite and Boxer allow smaller withdrawals at no extra cost.
Beneficiaries are advised not to rush to withdraw funds on the exact payment date, as the money remains in their accounts until needed.
Troubleshooting Collection Issues
Payment Delays
If the delay is too long after your payday, contact SASSA officials directly. Sometimes, it happens because the SASSA system is down.
Incorrect Banking Details
The banking details you provided when applying for SRD R370 grant might be incorrect, missing, or have failed to process. You can update SASSA Banking details via the official SASSA SRD website.
Post Office Issues
People who use Post office branches often face problems due to the unavailability of cash. ShopRite provides a more reliable alternative for cash collection.
Multiple Collection Points Available
Checkers, Usave, and selected OK Foods supermarkets also operate under the ShopRite Group, so you can collect payments from them as well. With approximately 3,543 stores in the continent, ShopRite is the most convenient option for receiving your SASSA grant payments.
Contact Information for Support
If you experience difficulties with your grant collection:
- SASSA Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- SASSA Email: [email protected]
- ShopRite Money Market WhatsApp: 087 240 5709
FAQs About Collect SASSA Grant from ShopRite
Can I collect my SASSA grant from ShopRite without a South African ID?
ShopRite’s Money Market services are available to customers with different identification documents. If you are an asylum seeker or hold a special permit from Zimbabwe, Angola, or Lesotho, you can provide the relevant documentation to switch your payment method to ShopRite.
Is there a deadline for switching my payment method to ShopRite?
While there isn’t a specific deadline, it’s advisable to switch your payment method as soon as possible to avoid any delays in receiving your grant payments via ShopRite.
What happens if I don’t have my phone during collection?
You must have your registered cellphone number available to receive the OTP code for verification. Without this security measure, you won’t be able to collect your grant payment.
Can I collect someone else’s grant from ShopRite?
No, grants can only be collected by the registered beneficiary. The OTP system and ID verification ensure that only the rightful recipient can access the funds.
What should I do if my payment doesn’t appear on my scheduled date?
If your status shows ‘paid’ but you haven’t received the funds after 5 working days, follow up at your nearest SASSA office. You can also contact the SASSA helpline for immediate assistance.
How do I know when my grant is ready for collection?
If your grant has been approved and is ready for collection, you can expect to receive a confirmation SMS from SASSA. Always check your SASSA status online before visiting the store.
Conclusion
Collecting your SASSA grant from ShopRite offers convenience and accessibility across South Africa’s extensive retail network. With over 3,500 locations and simplified collection processes, beneficiaries can access their funds safely and efficiently. Remember to keep your documents ready, verify your payment status online, and follow security protocols during collection. The transition from SASSA Gold Cards to newer payment methods like ShopRite Money Market accounts provides better banking services and reduced fees for grant recipients.
