SASSA Status: 'Pending' — What It Means & What To Do
'Pending' is the most common SASSA status. Learn what it means, why it happens, how long it lasts, and when to take action.
What This Status Means
'Pending' means SASSA is actively verifying your information. Your application is being cross-checked against several government databases including the Department of Home Affairs (for identity verification), the South African Revenue Service (SARS) for income checks, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Your bank accounts are also being monitored to ensure your income stays below R624. This is a normal part of the process and most applications go through a 'Pending' period.
How To Check This Status
Checking your "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
SASSA is verifying your ID number with Home Affairs
Your bank accounts are being checked for income deposits
Your details are being cross-referenced with UIF and SARS databases
There is a backlog of applications causing delays
Manual review is required due to a data mismatch
What To Do
Wait — This is Normal
Pending does not mean rejected. Most applications remain in this status for 1 to 4 weeks.
Do Not Reapply
Applying again while your existing application is pending will not speed up the process and may cause confusion.
Check for SMS Updates
SASSA will send SMS updates when your status changes.
Contact SASSA After 30 Days
If your status remains 'Pending' for more than 30 days, call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.
How Long It Takes
The 'Pending' status typically lasts 1 to 4 weeks. During peak application periods (the start of each month), it may take longer.
Who To Contact
SASSA Helpline
0800 60 10 11
SRD Portal
srd.sassa.gov.za
WhatsApp Line
082 601 0111
Sources & References
This status guide was researched and verified against the following official sources:
- srd.sassa.gov.zaVisit Website
- www.sassa.gov.zaVisit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
I am pending but the payment window has started — will I still be paid this month?
Possibly, but there is no guarantee. SRD payments run in batches through the last week of the month, and applications are only scheduled for payment once they are approved. If your status is still Pending when batches run, you may be approved later in the window or carried into the following month's cycle.
Is 'Pending' a good or bad sign?
Neither on its own. It is simply the most common status while SASSA cross-checks your details with Home Affairs, SARS, UIF, NSFAS, and the banks. Most applications pass through Pending before a decision is made.
My status has been Pending for months — should I reapply?
No. Reapplying while your application is still in the system can create duplicate records and delay your file further. If Pending has lasted more than 30 days, contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 with your reference number instead.
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.