How to Change Your Phone Number on SASSA — Update Your Details
Change or update your cell phone number on the SASSA SRD portal. Learn why your number matters, how to update it, and what to do if you are locked out.
How This Payment Method Works
Your registered cell phone number is how SASSA sends you OTPs, status updates, payment SMS, and biometric verification links. If you change your number and do not update it on the SRD portal, you can lose access to your status and your payment. Keeping your number active and updated is one of the most important steps for receiving your grant without delays.
How It Works
Your number must be registered in your name (RICA'd)
SASSA verifies your identity using your number for OTPs
SASSA sends status and payment SMS to your registered number
If your number is wrong or inactive, you cannot receive updates or verification links
Step-by-Step
Log into the SRD portal
Go to srd.sassa.gov.za and log in with your ID number and current phone number.
Go to Update Phone Number
Find the 'Update Phone Number' or 'Personal Details' section on the portal.
Enter your new number
Enter your new cell phone number. It must be registered in your name (RICA'd).
Verify the change
You may receive an OTP on the new number to confirm the change. Complete it to save the update.
Keep your new number active
Make sure your new number is active and has network coverage so you receive future SMS updates.
Who To Contact
SRD Portal
srd.sassa.gov.za
SASSA Helpline
0800 60 10 11
Sources & References
This payment guide was researched and verified against the following official sources:
- srd.sassa.gov.zaVisit Website
- www.sassa.gov.zaVisit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my SASSA phone number without logging in?
In most cases you must log in to the SRD portal with your existing number. If you no longer have access to it, contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 for assistance.
What is a RICA'd phone number?
RICA is South Africa's law requiring all SIM cards to be registered in the name of a verifiable person. Use a number registered in your own name so SASSA and your bank can confirm your identity.
Why does my phone number matter for the SRD grant?
SASSA uses your number for OTP security, status notifications, payment SMS, and biometric verification links. An inactive or wrong number can delay your payment.
What if I changed my number but grant payments stopped?
Update your number on the SRD portal first. If payments are still missing, follow our missing grant payment guide and contact SASSA.
What to do next
Explore related SASSA topics
Editorial note: SASSA Help Hub is an independent, unofficial information resource and is not affiliated with the South African Social Security Agency. This page was last reviewed on 2026-08-31 by Lucky Cungwa. See our Editorial Policy, Fact-Checking Policy, and Sources Policy. Found an error? Report it.