Starting May 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is rolling out mandatory biometric ID checks for all social grant recipients.
This move is designed to modernize the grant system, eliminate fraud, and ensure that funds reach only eligible beneficiaries.
From Old Age Grants to the new Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG), this system will apply across all payment types.
Why Is SASSA Introducing Biometric Checks?
The biometric system comes in response to widespread concerns over fraudulent claims, duplicate beneficiaries, and delayed payments. With billions of rand allocated to social grants annually, SASSA is taking a tech-driven approach to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Key reasons for this rollout include:
- Reducing identity fraud
- Speeding up application approvals
- Protecting public funds from misuse
- Ensuring only qualified individuals receive grants
How the Biometric ID Process Works
The biometric verification system uses a combination of fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and voice verification in some rural areas. Beneficiaries must visit their nearest SASSA office or mobile unit for on-the-spot enrollment.
Required Documents:
- Original South African ID or smart card
- Proof of address (no older than 3 months)
- SASSA card or grant approval letter
Enrollment Steps:
- Visit a SASSA-designated office or mobile unit.
- Present valid documentation.
- Undergo fingerprint and facial scan.
- Receive confirmation of biometric registration.
Biometric Rollout Schedule by Province
| Province | Start Date | Deadline | Key Locations | Mobile Units? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | May 10, 2025 | June 30, 2025 | Johannesburg, Pretoria | Yes |
| KwaZulu-Natal | May 15, 2025 | July 10, 2025 | Durban, Pietermaritzburg | Yes |
| Western Cape | May 18, 2025 | July 15, 2025 | Cape Town, Stellenbosch | Yes |
| Eastern Cape | May 20, 2025 | July 25, 2025 | Gqeberha, Mthatha | Yes |
| Limpopo | May 22, 2025 | July 30, 2025 | Polokwane, Tzaneen | Yes |
| Mpumalanga | May 25, 2025 | August 5, 2025 | Mbombela, Ermelo | Yes |
| North West | May 28, 2025 | August 10, 2025 | Mahikeng, Rustenburg | Yes |
| Free State | June 1, 2025 | August 15, 2025 | Bloemfontein, Welkom | Yes |
| Northern Cape | June 5, 2025 | August 20, 2025 | Kimberley, Upington | Yes |
Benefits for Grant Recipients
- Faster access to funds
- No repeated applications
- Better fraud protection
- More accurate dispute resolution
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Failure to complete biometric verification by your province’s deadline could result in:
- Delayed or frozen grant payments
- Blocked SASSA card
- Need for re-application
Grants Affected by the Biometric Rollout
| Grant Type | Biometric Required | Deadline | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Assistance available for the elderly |
| Disability Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Clinics may offer mobile support |
| Child Support Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Parents or guardians must enroll |
| Foster Care Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Must present court documentation |
| Care Dependency Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Hospital referral papers may be needed |
| SRD R350 Grant | Yes | July 30, 2025 | Required to transition to UBIG |
| UBIG Grant | Yes | Rolling | Biometric check required for approval |
| War Veterans Grant | Yes | Regional schedule | Caregivers may assist in registration |
The launch of biometric ID checks by SASSA represents a major shift in how social grants are managed in South Africa. It aims to make the system more secure, efficient, and fair for millions of citizens.
To avoid disruptions, every grant recipient is urged to complete their biometric enrollment before the set deadline for their region. It’s a simple yet critical step toward protecting your monthly grant.
FAQs
Who needs to undergo biometric verification?
All current and new SASSA grant beneficiaries must complete biometric registration.
What happens if I miss the biometric deadline?
Your grant payments may be suspended until verification is complete.
Can rural residents complete this process without traveling far?
Yes, mobile units are deployed across all provinces for easier access.