How do I Fix Identity Verification Failed on SASSA?

Before approving a grant application, SASSA carefully verifies the applicant’s personal information. However,  applicants may sometimes receive an SMS stating, ‘SASSA status check failed’ or ‘Identity verification failed’, often due to incorrect or mismatched details.

If you’re currently facing this issue and wondering, ‘How do I fix identity verification failed on SASSA', This comprehensive guide will help you resolve it. Let’s explore the possible solutions in detail!

Common Reasons for Identity Verification Failed Issue on SASSA

Sometimes, identity verification fails in SASSA, for which applicants must identify the reason to solve that problem. Some common reasons for SASSA status check or identity failed issues are mentioned below:

Incomplete or Wrong Information

The first and most common reason for identity verification issues is the wrong or incomplete information provided while applying for SASSA grant. Therefore, correcting it is essential to solve this problem and get your application approved.

Doesn’t Fulfill the Eligibility Criteria

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) keeps updating its criteria for social grants depending on the inflation rate and the country’s current economic status. It is quite possible that if you were previously receiving a SASSA grant but due to updated eligibility criteria, you’re no longer eligible for the funds. Moreover, the applicant must also meet the criteria for the Means Test to qualify for the social grants.

Mistake in Banking Details

Sometimes, you may mistakenly enter the wrong banking details in the application form or need to update your banking information, leading to failure of identity verification in SASSA. To resolve this issue, sign in to your SASSA account and resubmit the application after providing the correct and complete updated banking details.

Requires Specified Duration to Update Information

Once you resubmit your grant application with correct details, it’s important to wait for around 30 days to let SASSA update the status online. Checking status repeatedly without waiting for a particular processing period may show verification failed error.

Technical Glitches

If you’ve reviewed all your details on SASSA and are confident that all information is accurate, the issue might be due to a technical error on the official SASSA website. Sometimes, system glitches, server issues, or temporary downtime can cause verification errors due to disruption in automated processes.

Why do I Receive an SMS Notification for SASSA Status Check Failed?

While applying for a SASSA grant, applicants may sometimes receive an SMS stating, ‘Your identity verification failed.’ This problem can occur due to incorrect information submitted on the application form, missing important data, or not qualifying for the SASSA Means Test. Regardless of the reason, you can resolve the issue by correcting or completing the necessary details and reapplying.

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How do I Fix Identity Verification Failed on SASSA? Quick Steps to Follow

If SASSA doesn’t approve your grant application due to an identity verification issue, you must first identify the reason before re-submitting your application. Once you know why you’re facing an identity failed error, proceed with the below quick steps for a solution:

Review SASSA Status Details

Check your SASSA status online through the official website and understand the reason for unsuccessful identity verification. SASSA clearly mentions the reason why your identity has been declined or not approved yet. 

Update the Necessary Information

After determining the main reason behind the status check failed issue, the next step is to correct any missing or incorrect information. So, before proceeding further, it’s important to first update the necessary information and ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly. To do this, log in to your SASSA account, correct the errors, and resubmit your application.

Track Your Application Status

After making the required correction, it’s important to follow up on your application to check if the SASSA identity verification problem is resolved in SASSA or still pending. If the status shows ‘pending’ it means you still need to update some information. 

Make sure to double-check all the provided details and reapply. However, you must wait for a few days to let SASSA update your status after carefully analyzing your details.

How to Submit an Appeal to Resolve ‘Identity Verification Failed’ Issue?

Resolving the SASSA SRD identity verification issue is quite simple and quick. You just need to follow the below steps to complete the procedure online:

• Go to the official website of SASSA at https://www.sassa.gov.za/ 

• Enter the correct details or provide the missing information in the form.

• Double-check all the provided information, including your name, phone number, residential address or other relevant information. Make sure to correct all information.

• Verify the OTP through your registered mobile number.

• Quickly check all details and re-submit in SASSA. Keep tracking your application status online to avoid letting you know if it's still pending or approved.

How to Avoid Status Check Failed Issue on SASSA? Simple Tips to Follow

If you’re applying for a SASSA grant, make sure to follow these simple yet effective tips to avoid a status failure error:

• Ensure completing every section of the application with accurate and up-to-date information.

• Attach all required documents along with the application form.

• Inform SASSA well before time for any changes in details, such as contact information or banking details.

• Always update your personal information with SASSA as soon as any changes are made.

What to do If Identity Verification Problem Persists?

If identity verification problems persist even after correcting or updating all the required details, it's important to contact SASSA via helpline number 0800 601011 or by visiting the nearest SASSA branch for assistance. 

The staff will guide you about the process to resolve the issue or may recommend you filing an appeal. However, you must double-check all the details at your end before submitting an appeal as any discrepancy can lead to verification failure. 

Try Other Methods to Get SASSA ID Verification Link

If you’re not getting the verification link even after performing all the necessary steps and trying multiple times, you can follow the below methods for help:

• Try accessing the verification link during off-peak hours to avoid system overload. The best times can be 6am-9am and 10pm-2am in the midweek (Tuesday-Thursday).

• Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to change your location. It may help bypass regional connection issues and increase the chances of getting verification links.

• Apply for a new Smart ID Card, as it is more reliable for digital systems.