An SRD appeal succeeds when you can show the reason SASSA gave for declining you does not apply to you. This page focuses on that evidence. For the full step-by-step appeal process, see our SRD appeal guide.
Appeals that have a good chance
- Income that was not really income. Money a relative sent to pay a shared expense, a loan repayment to you, or a once-off transfer can push your balance over R624. Show where it came from and what it paid for.
- Out-of-date database records. If UIF, NSFAS or a government payroll still lists you after the support or job ended, get written proof of the end date.
- A grant that is not yours. If you receive a child support grant for a child, that does not disqualify you. Say so in your appeal.
- Identity problems you have fixed. If Home Affairs had an error and it has been corrected, appeal and mention the correction.
Appeals that are unlikely to succeed
- You earned more than R624 from work that month.
- You were 60 or older, which means you should apply for the older persons grant instead.
- You were receiving UIF or NSFAS during the month you appealed.
Evidence checklist
| Decline reason | Useful evidence |
|---|---|
| Alternative income source identified | Bank statement for the month, with a short note explaining the deposits |
| UIF registered | A letter or printout showing your UIF claim has ended |
| NSFAS registered | Proof that your NSFAS funding stopped or was cancelled |
| Government payroll registered | A letter confirming your employment ended, with the date |
| Identity verification failed | Proof that Home Affairs has corrected your record, or completion of SASSA’s verification |
Lodging the appeal
Appeals are submitted online at srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals within 90 days of the decline, one appeal per declined month. They are decided by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals, which aims to finish within 60 to 90 days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best reason to choose when appealing an SRD decline?
Choose the reason that matches the decline shown on your status, and explain why it does not apply to you. An appeal with a clear explanation and proof is more likely to succeed.
Can I appeal if my bank balance was over R624?
Yes, if the money was not income, for example a once-off transfer to pay a family expense. Explain the deposit in your appeal and keep your bank statement ready.
What happens if I miss the 90-day appeal deadline?
The Tribunal will not consider the appeal, and that month cannot be paid. Later months are still assessed on their own.

