SASSA Status: 'Appeal Pending' — What It Means & How Long It Takes
'Appeal Pending' means your appeal has been received and is being reviewed. Learn about the appeal process, timeline, and what to expect.
What This Status Means
'Appeal Pending' means your appeal against a declined grant decision has been received by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) and is being reviewed. ITSAA is an independent body separate from SASSA, which ensures fairness in the appeal process. Your application and supporting documents are being evaluated by an independent tribunal member who will decide whether the original decline decision was correct.
How To Check This Status
Checking your "Appeal Pending" status is free and takes less than a minute. Choose whichever method works for you:
Online (SRD Portal)
srd.sassa.gov.za — log in with your ID number and registered phone number
USSD (Zero Data)
Dial *120*69277# from any cellphone — free, no data or airtime needed
Chat with SASSA on 082 601 0111 to check your status
Moya App (Zero Data)
Use the Moya app — SASSA status uses zero data
SMS
SMS your ID number to 32147 to receive your status update
You cannot change your status using these tools — only check it. To change your banking details or appeal, use the actions below.
Why It Happens
You submitted an appeal through the ITSAA portal (srd-appeals.dsd.gov.za)
Your appeal has been logged and assigned to a case officer
The tribunal is reviewing your application and the evidence you provided
SASSA has been asked to provide their reasons for the decline
What To Do
Wait for Processing
The tribunal process takes time. Most appeals are resolved within 60 to 90 days.
Keep Your Contact Details Updated
Ensure your phone number and address are correct so you receive the outcome notification.
Check Your Status Online
You can check your appeal status on the ITSAA portal using your reference number.
Do Not Submit a Second Appeal
Submitting a duplicate appeal will not speed up the process and may cause delays.
How Long It Takes
The Independent Tribunal typically takes 60 to 90 days to process an appeal. Complex cases may take longer.
Who To Contact
ITSAA Portal
srd-appeals.dsd.gov.za
DSD Contact
012 312 7726
Sources & References
This status guide was researched and verified against the following official sources:
- srd-appeals.dsd.gov.zaVisit Website
- www.dsd.gov.zaVisit Website
What to do next
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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.