1. Visit the update your SASSA SRD grant contact details page
2. Enter your ID number
3. Enter your Application ID (*if you do not know your application ID, read below on how to find it)
4. Click the “Submit” button
5. Enter your email address and new cellphone number
6. Click the “Submit” button
7. Select your reason for changing the cellphone number (was your cellphone stolen/ list, or did you use someone else’s mobile number to apply and now cannot get hold of that person, or is there another reason why you no longer have access to the mobile number you applied with)
8. Enter the OTP you received via SMS
9. Click the “Submit” button
10. Your contact details have now been updated
Table of Contents
A Guide to Changing Your Cellphone Number with SASSA for Seamless Communication
Staying connected with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is crucial for beneficiaries of various grants, including the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. If you’ve changed your cellphone number and need to update it with SASSA, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure seamless communication and access to important updates regarding your grants.
- Visit the Official SASSA Website: Begin by accessing the official SASSA website at https://www.sassa.gov.za/. It is essential to use the legitimate website to safeguard your personal information.
- Log into Your SASSA Profile: If you have an existing online profile, log in using your username and password. If you don’t have an account, you may need to register for online access. Follow the registration prompts to create a secure login.
- Navigate to the Profile Management Section: Once logged in, look for the section related to profile management or updates. This may be labeled as “My Profile” or something similar. Navigate to the page where you can manage your contact information.
- Locate the Cellphone Number Update Option: Within the profile management section, find the option to update your cellphone number. This may be listed under “Contact Details” or a similar category.
- Input the New Cellphone Number: Enter your new cellphone number accurately in the provided fields. Double-check the information to ensure there are no errors that could affect communication.
- Verify the Change: Some changes, including updates to cellphone numbers, may require additional verification steps. Be prepared to follow any prompts or instructions provided to confirm the change.
- Submit the Changes: After entering the new cellphone number and completing any necessary verification steps, look for a button or option to submit the changes. Confirm the submission to finalize the update.
- Check for Confirmation: After submitting the changes, you should receive a confirmation message on the website. This confirmation may include details about the updated cellphone number and any additional steps, if necessary.
- Monitor Communication from SASSA: Once the cellphone number is updated, monitor your new number for any communication from SASSA. This could include updates on your grant payments, changes in procedures, or other important information.
- Check Application Status: To ensure the successful update, check the status of your R350 grant application on the SASSA website. This will confirm whether the changes have been accurately reflected in the system.
- Contact SASSA Helpline (if needed): If you encounter any challenges during the cellphone number update process or have specific questions, don’t hesitate to contact the SASSA helpline for assistance. SASSA staff can provide guidance and support.
Conclusion: Updating your cellphone number with SASSA is a straightforward process when done through the official website. By following these steps, beneficiaries can ensure that they receive important communications and updates related to their grants, including the R350 SRD grant. Stay informed about any changes in procedures, and reach out to SASSA for assistance if needed during the cellphone number update process.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.