If your SASSA application status shows pending, it usually means your application is awaiting processing and lacks essential documentation, information, or bank details.

It means your application won’t be processed unless the agency verifies your information. If you are currently experiencing this issue, here is how to fix SASSA Pension status and its reasons, so dive right in.

Reason for SASSA Status Pending

There are several reasons why your SASSA status is stuck to Pending. Some of them are explained in detail here.

System Overload

SASS receives thousands of applications each year and the high volume of documentation on the portal puts strain on the system. It usually results in delays in application processing and status updates. If this is the reason, SASSA will notify you of any operational delay on your SASSA-registered phone number and email.

Lengthy Verification Process

SASSA has a lengthy verification process that tests your identity against third-party databases, including SARS, the Department of Home Affairs, and the UIF Insurance Fund. Here, the agency has to verify your identity, residency, income, and eligibility. Therefore, this process could take longer depending on the time it takes for SASSA to send and verify the data.

  • If you have provided incomplete or misrepresented information, it may take even longer to process your individual application. That’s why it shows the pending status on the SASSA portal.

Technical Issues

Another reason why your SASSA status still shows pending could be the technical issues with the portal. It can be anything from a system glitch to connectivity issues or a down server. These issues are usually temporary and easily resolved, as all you need to do is wait for some time and log into the portal after ten to fifteen minutes.

Eligibility Issues

Each year, SASSA revises its eligibility criteria, which may require additional documentation or information specific to the grant program you are applying for. This is why you are required to apply for the grant again, even if it gets approved. Sometimes, it happens that you may not have yet provided these documents, delaying the verification process.

How Do I Fix the Pending Status on SASSA?

Now that you know why your SASSA application status is stuck on Pending, it is time to resolve it. Here are some quick fixes with which you can proceed with your application status.

Provide Accurate Information

The first thing you need to do to get your status transition from pending is to provide the necessary information and documentation. This is usually mentioned on your SASSA portal. Even when you are submitting the application, double-check the data to avoid typing errors or factually incorrect information.

Regularly Check the Status

It is better to keep checking your SASSA status regularly, as you never know when the agency updates your status. Typically, it takes around 30 to 90 days for SASSA to inform you about the decision. Hence, if it has been past 30 days, you need to keep checking the status on the portal to never miss an update; here is how you can check your SASSA status.

  • First, visit the SASSA services portal and log into your portal.
  • Navigate to your social grant application page and click Status.
  • From here, you will be able to check whether the status is updated to approved or rejected.

Reach Out to SASSA

If it has been long past the status update deadline, you may need to consult SASSA to find out the specific reason for the Pending status. You can call them directly on the toll-free hotline, 0800 60 10 11 or message them to [email protected]. Another way to resolve issues is by visiting their nearest local SASSA office.

Be Patient

While you are at it, it is important to note that processing your grant application can take time, especially when the agency receives a huge volume of applications each year. It is completely understandable that waiting for a long time can be frustrating. But, there is nothing much you can do about it other than rechecking your SASSA status consistently.

Conclusion

In essence, if your SASSA application shows as pending, you need to get in action and communicate with the agency. This typically means you have not provided sufficient documents or have not updated your bank details. I hope this guide has been helpful for anyone experiencing this issue.