What Happens When a SASSA Grant Beneficiary Passes Away?

Losing a loved one is never easy. The administrative processes during such a difficult time can add to the burden. For families of South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries, knowing what happens to the grant after death is crucial for accessing any available unclaimed benefits.

This guide explains what to do when a SASSA grant beneficiary passes away and how to claim any unclaimed benefits that may help with funeral costs.

SASSA Grant Cancellation: What You Need to Know

When a SASSA beneficiary dies, the grant automatically cancels at the end of the month in which the death occurred. The Department of Home Affairs registers the death and informs SASSA through their linked population register. This ensures that no further payments are made after the beneficiary’s death.

If the deceased had already withdrawn their grant payment for the month, no further payments will be issued for that month. This helps SASSA align payments with the beneficiary’s status.

Unclaimed Benefits: What Happens to the Uncollected Grant?

If the deceased did not collect their grant payment for the month they died, that payment becomes an “unclaimed benefit.” The legal representative or next of kin can claim this benefit, provided certain conditions are met.

The claimant must have paid for the funeral and submit the required documentation to SASSA to claim the unclaimed benefit.

Requirements to Claim Unclaimed Benefits

To claim the unclaimed benefit, the following documents must be submitted:

• Death certificate of the deceased
• Deceased’s ID document
• Claimant’s ID (next of kin or legal representative)
• Proof of relationship to the deceased (if required)
• Funeral invoice or receipt to confirm payment of funeral expenses
• Additional forms provided by SASSA during the claim process

The claim must be submitted within six months of the beneficiary’s death. If not, the unclaimed benefit is forfeited.

Can a Relative Inherit the Grant?

SASSA does not allow the transfer of the deceased’s grant to a relative, even if they apply for their own grant. The unclaimed benefit is only for funeral expenses. Any claim made must reimburse funeral costs and cannot be used for other financial purposes.

The Process of Claiming the Unclaimed Benefit

After submitting the necessary documents, SASSA typically processes the claim within 24 to 72 hours, assuming all documents are correct. This ensures that families receive financial assistance promptly to cover funeral costs.

Where to Submit the Claim: Claims can be submitted at your nearest SASSA office or online via the official SASSA website. For more details on how to submit a claim, visit SASSA’s website.

Key Points to Remember:

• Grant cancellation happens automatically at the end of the month in which the beneficiary dies.
• Unclaimed benefits can be claimed by the legal representative or next of kin.
• The claimant must have paid for the funeral expenses and provide proof of payment.
• Claims must be submitted within six months of the beneficiary’s death.
• The unclaimed benefit can only be used for funeral expenses and cannot be transferred to a relative’s grant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can the unclaimed benefit be used for anything other than funeral costs?
A: No, the unclaimed benefit is strictly for funeral expenses. It cannot be used for any other financial purpose.

Q: How do I know if my claim is being processed?
A: After submission, SASSA typically processes claims within 24 to 72 hours. You can follow up with SASSA if you haven’t received confirmation within this period.

Q: What happens if I miss the six-month deadline?
A: Unfortunately, claims submitted after six months from the date of the beneficiary’s death will be forfeited. No further claims will be accepted.

Q: Can I submit the claim on behalf of someone else?
A: Yes, if you are the legal representative or next of kin and have the required documentation, you can submit the claim on behalf of the deceased.

Related: SASSA CEO Says Use of Biometric ID Will Enhance Security

When a SASSA grant beneficiary passes away, it’s crucial to understand how to claim any unclaimed benefits. Though the process may seem daunting, knowing what documents to submit and the timeline to follow makes it easier to manage. By following the steps outlined, the family or legal representative can access the funds needed to cover funeral expenses promptly.

For more information, or if you have further questions about the process, visit the official SASSA website or reach out to your local SASSA office for personalized assistance.