SASSA Unlawful Deductions Social Grants : SASSA has issued a stern warning to social grant beneficiaries concerning unauthorized deductions being taken from their monthly payments. Unfortunate stories have now emerged of vulnerable citizens being denied a portion of their grants by unlawful service providers, collections for airtime subscriptions, loan repayments, and other illegal charges.
What Beneficiaries Need To Know
SASSA has clearly stated that no third party has the right to make deductions from social grants unless it is authorized by law. The grants are meant as relief for the most vulnerable, including pensioners, the disabled, and children cared for by foster families. Unauthorized deductions deprive recipients of much-needed support, leaving many unable to meet basic needs.
The agency also highlighted that deductions may be made for funeral policies, but such deductions must be authorized and should not exceed 10% of the monthly grant paid. Any other deduction, be it for airtime, electricity, or loan repayment, is illegal.
SASSA’s Action Against Fraud
SASSA has tightened its monitoring system to protect beneficiaries and has entered into cooperation with the DSD to track down unlawful transactions. The agency has also been encouraging beneficiaries in reporting suspicious activities involving their grants without delay.
“If you notice money missing from your grant, you must immediately report this to SASSA. These grants are meant to be used for improving lives and, hence should not be stolen through illegal deductions,” a SASSA spokesperson said.
Complaints can be registered at local SASSA offices, the toll-free helpline, or the official SASSA website. Investigations will then ensue, and beneficiaries may be refunded if deductions were found to be unlawful.
How Beneficiaries Can Protect Themselves
SASSA advises grant recipients to:
- Regularly check their payment receipts or bank statements to confirm that the correct amount is received.
- Never disclose their PIN code or details of their SASSA card to anyone else, including loan agents.
- Be cautious of any scams that offer will offer “easy loans” or “advance payouts” in return for access to their grant accounts.
- Report suspicious deductions immediately.
Also Read: SASSA August 2025 Grants: R2,315 Payments Begin On August 22 – Full Schedule Inside