If your SRD R370 grant status shows "Identity Verification Requested" or "Referred", your application is not declined — but it is paused until SASSA can confirm who you are.
This guide explains why this happens, what the biometric verification process involves in 2026, and what to do if you are stuck.
Got "Identity Verification Failed" instead? That is a different status. See our dedicated guide on how to fix the Identity Verification Failed SRD status.
Why SASSA Requires ID Verification
SASSA introduced biometric identity verification as a direct response to widespread fraud on the SRD R370 grant system. Fraudsters were using stolen ID numbers to redirect payments through SIM swaps and fake banking details — read our guide on SASSA SRD scams to avoid to understand the most common methods.
Your grant will be flagged for ID verification if:
- Your personal information does not match the Home Affairs database
- SASSA suspects your profile may have been compromised
- You are requesting a change to your cellphone number or banking details
- Your application was flagged during a random security check
- Someone else may be using your ID number to apply
You only need to act if your status page shows "Identity Verification Requested" or "Referred." If your status shows "No identification verification required," you are clear. For a full explanation of every possible status message, see our complete SRD statuses guide.
How to Check Your ID Verification Status
Before doing anything, confirm whether verification is actually required:
- Go to srd.sassa.gov.za and click Status Check
- Enter your 13-digit ID number and registered cellphone number
- Check the status message shown for your application
If it shows "Identity Verification Requested", follow the steps below. If you see a different status you don't recognise, check our full SRD status explanations.
How the Biometric Verification Works in 2026
SASSA's biometric verification uses facial recognition — you take a selfie on your phone, which is matched against the photo on your ID in the Home Affairs database.
If SASSA sends you a link via SMS:
- Open the SMS link on your smartphone (not a laptop or desktop — the link requires a front-facing camera)
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Position your face in the frame and take a selfie when prompted
- Submit and wait for confirmation
The link is unique to your ID and expires after a set period. If it has expired, you will need to request a new one (see below) or visit a SASSA branch.
If you have not received a link:
SASSA sends the biometric link automatically when your profile is flagged. If you have been waiting more than 2 weeks and have not received anything:
- Confirm that your registered cellphone number is still correct and active — if not, you will need to update your SRD cellphone number first
- Call 0800 60 10 11 and ask for the verification link to be resent
- If the call centre cannot resolve it, visit your nearest SASSA branch in person
Completing Verification at a SASSA Branch
For many beneficiaries, the most reliable option is to visit a participating SASSA branch in person. This is especially necessary if:
- You never received the SMS link
- Your registered cellphone number is no longer active
- The online process keeps failing
What to bring to the branch:
- Original South African ID book or smart ID card
- Proof of residence (utility bill, bank statement, or affidavit — not older than 3 months)
- Your registered cellphone number written down
- Any correspondence from SASSA related to your verification request
For SASSA branch contact details and addresses, see our SASSA contact numbers by area guide.
How Long Does ID Verification Take?
Based on widespread reports from beneficiaries in 2026, biometric verification can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The delay is largely due to the volume of verifications being processed and the integration between SASSA and Home Affairs.
The important thing to know: If your verification is eventually successful, SASSA is required to back-pay you for every month you missed while verification was in progress. You will not permanently lose those payments. Check our SASSA SRD payment dates page for the current payment schedule once your verification clears.
Check your status regularly at srd.sassa.gov.za — the update will appear when your verification is complete.
What Happens After Successful Verification?
Once your biometric verification clears:
- Your application status will update (no longer showing "Identity Verification Requested")
- Your monthly eligibility assessment resumes
- SASSA processes back-pay for months missed during the verification period
- If you were also trying to change your cellphone number or update banking details, that process can now proceed
If You Suspect Identity Theft
If you believe someone is using your ID number to fraudulently claim the SRD grant:
- Call the SASSA fraud hotline: 0800 60 10 11 immediately to report and freeze your profile
- Report to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and obtain a case number
- Contact Home Affairs to check whether your ID has been compromised
- Bring your SAPS case number to your nearest SASSA branch to have your profile secured
- Read our guide on how to protect your SASSA SRD grant to prevent future compromises
Black Sash provides free legal support to SRD beneficiaries who have been victims of identity fraud — they can assist you through the SASSA complaint and appeal process at no cost.
Common Issues and Fixes
"My name or surname is incorrect on my application" Go to srd.sassa.gov.za/said and submit a correction with your details exactly as they appear on your ID document.
"My selfie keeps failing during the biometric check" Ensure you are in good natural lighting, remove glasses and hats, and keep your face centred in the frame. Do not use a face mask. If it continues to fail, visit a SASSA branch for in-person verification.
"My SMS link has expired" Call 0800 60 10 11 to request a new link, or visit a SASSA branch directly.
"I completed verification but my status still shows 'Requested'" Allow up to 5 business days for the system to update. If it persists, follow up with the SASSA call centre. While waiting, you can still check your SRD status and balance to monitor whether your grant resumes.
"My grant is approved but I haven't been paid" That is a different issue from verification. See our guide on SRD approved but not yet paid for specific steps.
Contact SASSA for ID Verification Help
See our full SASSA contact guide for all available options, or use:
- SASSA Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free, Monday to Friday 08:00–16:00)
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- Official portal: srd.sassa.gov.za
- SASSA fraud hotline: 0800 60 10 11