SASSA to Introduce Biometric System for Grants from September 2025
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will introduce a biometric system for social grant applications on 1 September 2025. New applicants will need to enrol by providing biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, using electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) technologies. This system aims to streamline processes, reduce fraud, and ensure grants go to the right people.
What is the SASSA Biometric System?
The SASSA Biometric System will use fingerprints and facial recognition to verify the identity of social grant beneficiaries. The system will compare the biometric data against the national Home Affairs database. This will ensure only eligible people receive grants.
Biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans, offer a reliable method for confirming a person’s identity. The new system will eliminate fraudulent claims and improve the grant distribution process.
- Official SASSA Media Statement: Download PDF here
Why is SASSA Introducing Biometrics?
SASSA is introducing biometrics for several reasons:
- Stop Fraudulent Claims and “Ghost Beneficiaries”: Biometrics will help prevent fraud by ensuring each applicant is who they say they are.
- Strengthen Verification Processes: Biometrics will provide an additional layer of security, reducing the risk of forged documents and false identities.
- Improve Efficiency and Audit Outcomes: The biometric system will reduce errors and streamline the grant process, making audits easier and more accurate.
When Will Biometrics Be Rolled Out?
The biometric system will launch on 1 September 2025. It will be available at all SASSA offices across the country.
Staff Training: SASSA will train staff in August 2025 to ensure a smooth rollout.
Who Needs to Enrol in the Biometric System?
Biometric enrolment will apply to:
- New Beneficiaries: Anyone applying for social grants after 1 September 2025 will need to provide biometric data.
- Existing Beneficiaries: Current beneficiaries will gradually be enrolled into the system. Those who need to update their personal details will also enrol.
This process will ensure that all beneficiaries are verified.
How the Biometric Enrolment Process Will Work
Here’s how beneficiaries can enrol:
- Visit a SASSA Office: Beneficiaries must visit a nearby SASSA office to complete the process.
- Provide Identification and Documents: Bring your ID and any required documents.
- Submit Biometric Data: Provide either your fingerprint or facial scan at the office.
- Verification Against Home Affairs: The system will compare the data to the Home Affairs database to confirm your identity.
- Receive Confirmation: After successful enrolment, you will receive confirmation.
The process is simple and quick.
Benefits of the Biometric System
The biometric system offers several key benefits:
- Reduced Fraud and Duplicate Applications: Biometrics will help eliminate fraudulent and duplicate applications.
- Reliable Proof of Life and Identity Verification: Biometrics will provide a foolproof method to confirm beneficiaries are alive and who they say they are.
- Stronger Record-Keeping and Audit Integrity: The system improves data accuracy and makes auditing easier.
- Improved Public Trust: By ensuring that only eligible people receive grants, the system will help restore public confidence.
Challenges and Concerns
There are a few challenges to consider:
- Labour Disputes: Although there were concerns about labour disputes, SASSA has resolved these issues. The rollout will proceed as planned.
- Accessibility for Rural Beneficiaries: Rural beneficiaries may face difficulties accessing SASSA offices. SASSA is addressing this by ensuring all offices are equipped.
- System Glitches: The rollout might experience some glitches. However, SASSA has prepared its infrastructure to handle this.
How Beneficiaries Can Prepare
To prepare for the biometric system:
- Ensure ID and Info Match Home Affairs Records: Check that your personal details match those in the Home Affairs database.
- Respond to SASSA Notices: Stay on top of any enrolment notices you receive from SASSA.
- Keep Records of Enrolment Confirmation: After enrolling, keep proof of your confirmation for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do I need to re-apply for my grant?
No, you don’t need to reapply. However, you must enrol in the biometric system if you need to update your personal details. - Will my grant stop if I don’t enrol?
Yes, your grant could be delayed if you don’t enrol in the system. - What if I cannot provide fingerprints (elderly, disabled)?
If you cannot provide fingerprints, the system will use facial recognition as an alternative. - Can I enrol at any SASSA office?
Yes, you can enrol at any SASSA office.
Check also: SASSA Grant Forms Made Easy: Download, Complete, and Submit with Confidence
SASSA remains committed to ensuring grants reach the right people. The new biometric system will help eliminate fraud and improve the efficiency of social grant administration. Fraudulent activity will not be tolerated, and SASSA will continue to ensure the system is transparent and secure.
