SASSA Expands Digital Services: WhatsApp Channels, Office Kiosks and Free Wi-Fi

On 17 September 2026 SASSA outlined its digital-services expansion at a media briefing in the Eastern Cape. The agency is adding WhatsApp support, self-service kiosks and free Wi-Fi at its offices so that more beneficiaries can handle grant enquiries without standing in a queue.

What SASSA Announced

• WhatsApp channels for Social Relief of Distress (SRD) and social grant enquiries, plus a separate channel for checking review statuses. This sits alongside the self-service WhatsApp line launched in August 2026 (082 601 0111).
• Self-service kiosks at SASSA offices, with more advanced kiosks planned for strategic locations across the country by the 2027/28 financial year.
• Free Wi-Fi at SASSA offices so beneficiaries who own smartphones but have little or no data can use the online application system and the SASSA WhatsApp platform while on site.
• A mobile app is in development.

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou said the agency wants to build a modern organisation whose services are 'accessible, secure and citizen-centred'. SASSA stressed that the digital options work alongside face-to-face service rather than replacing it, so no beneficiary who prefers to be helped in person is left behind.

What to Do Now

The rollout is not yet available at every office. Before travelling, confirm which services your nearest branch actually offers, and make sure SASSA has your correct cellphone number so you receive notifications.

• If your number changed, update it on the SRD portal (srd.sassa.gov.za) - our phone-number guide explains how.
• For review status, use the WhatsApp self-service review option.

Sources

• The Citizen - Sassa takes grant services online with WhatsApp, kiosks and Wi-Fi
• Joburg ETC - Sassa expands digital access with WhatsApp channels, kiosks and free Wi-Fi
• The South African - Some good news for SASSA grant recipients: Free Wi-Fi at offices

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