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SASSA USSD Codes: Check Your Grant Status Without Internet (2026)

You do not need a smartphone or data to check your SASSA status. Use these free USSD codes from any cellphone to check your SRD R370 grant, balance, and payment status.

Old-style mobile phone keypad showing keypad dialing
ZA
Lucky Cungwa

SASSA Help Hub — Independent Unofficial Resource

Updated: 7/7/2026
2 minutes
Written by Lucky Cungwa
Fact-checked & last verified: 2026-07-07

Guide Contents

What Are USSD Codes and Why Use Them?Use *120*3210# for SASSA Grant Status (Postbank)Use *120*69277# for SRD R370 Status CheckUse *134*7737# to Apply for SRD (Limited Use)Troubleshooting USSD IssuesOther Ways to Check Your Status Without a Smartphone

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

What Are USSD Codes and Why Use Them?

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes work like instant commands for your phone. You dial a short code, press send, and information appears on your screen within seconds. Unlike apps or websites, USSD does not need internet data. It works on any phone — including old Nokia and feature phones — on any South African mobile network. SASSA provides several USSD codes for checking grant status, application status, and payment balances.

Pro Tip

  • USSD codes are free from all major South African networks (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom).
  • You do not need airtime or data to use SASSA USSD codes.
2

Use *120*3210# for SASSA Grant Status (Postbank)

Dial *120*3210# on your cellphone and press the call button. This code connects you to the Postbank SASSA balance check service. You will see a menu with options. Select the option for 'SASSA Grant Balance' or 'SASSA Status Check'. Enter your 13-digit ID number when prompted. The system will display your current grant status and any available balance. This code is best for checking whether a payment has been made to your Postbank account.

Pro Tip

  • Write down your balance after the session ends — USSD sessions time out after 60 seconds.
  • This code works best for Postbank/SASSA Gold Card holders.
3

Use *120*69277# for SRD R370 Status Check

Dial *120*69277# and press call. This is the dedicated USSD code for SRD R370 grant status checks. After dialing, you will see a menu. Select 'Check Status'. Enter your 13-digit ID number when prompted. The system will tell you your status for the current month — Approved, Pending, Declined, or other statuses. This code accesses the same database as the online SRD portal.

Pro Tip

  • This code is specifically for the SRD R370 grant, not for permanent grants.
  • Check your status after the 15th of each month for the most accurate result.
4

Use *134*7737# to Apply for SRD (Limited Use)

Dial *134*7737# to access the SASSA application menu. This code was originally designed for applying to the SRD grant via USSD. It can still be used to check your application status and in some cases to reapply. However, the full application process is better done online at srd.sassa.gov.za because the USSD version asks for fewer details and may result in incomplete applications.

Pro Tip

  • If you applied via USSD, always verify your application status on the SRD portal later.
  • The USSD application method does not work for all phone numbers — use the portal if you can.
5

Troubleshooting USSD Issues

If a USSD code does not work, try the following: ensure you are dialing exactly the right number (including the asterisks and hash), check that you have network signal, try switching your phone off and on, or insert your SIM into a different phone. If the code still does not work, call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 to confirm which code works for your situation. Some networks may block certain USSD codes — ask your network provider to unblock them.

Pro Tip

  • Do not add any extra numbers before or after the USSD code — it must be exactly as shown.
  • If you get a 'Service Not Available' message, try again in an hour.
6

Other Ways to Check Your Status Without a Smartphone

Besides USSD codes, there are three other ways to check your SASSA status on a phone that is not a smartphone or without internet data:
  • Toll-free helpline: call 0800 60 10 11 from any phone (the call is free, you do not need airtime). Follow the prompts and have your 13-digit ID number ready.
  • SASSA WhatsApp line: message 082 601 0111 to check your SRD status.
  • Ask a trusted helper: a family member, neighbour, or community worker can check your status for you online at srd.sassa.gov.za. Only share your ID number with someone you trust completely.
If none of these work, visit your nearest SASSA office or a SASSA mobile unit in person — bring your ID document and the officer can look up your status on their system.

Pro Tip

  • Keep your 13-digit ID number handy before you call or dial.
  • Never share your banking PIN or SASSA card PIN with anyone who offers to check your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are SASSA USSD codes free?

Yes. All SASSA USSD codes (*120*3210#, *120*69277#, *134*7737#) are free from Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. You do not need airtime or data.

Which USSD code shows my SRD payment date?

*120*69277# shows your current SRD status, including whether you are approved and any available payment information. For specific payment dates, check the SRD portal or your SMS notifications.

Can I check someone else's SASSA status for them?

Yes, if you have their ID number and their permission. You can check online at srd.sassa.gov.za, via the WhatsApp line 082 601 0111, or through a USSD code. Only do this for people you trust, and never share their ID number further.

Sources & References

This guide was researched and verified against the following official sources:

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