How to Change Your SASSA Phone Number
Your cellphone number is one of the most important details linked to your SASSA grant. It is used for receiving payment notifications, OTP verification, status updates, and important communications from SASSA. If you have changed your phone number or lost access to your old one, it is essential that you update it as soon as possible. This guide covers all the methods available to change your SASSA phone number.
Why You Should Keep Your Phone Number Updated
Having the correct phone number on your SASSA profile is critical for several reasons:
- Payment notifications are sent via SMS to your registered number
- OTP verification is required for online services and status checks
- SASSA sends important updates about grant reviews and changes
- Identity verification (eKYC) may require SMS confirmation
- Appeal outcomes and other decisions are communicated by SMS
- The upcoming BIS grant transition may require phone verification
Method 1: Change Your Phone Number Online (SRD Grant Only)
If you receive the SRD R370 grant, you can update your phone number through the official SRD portal. This is the quickest method and can be done from your phone or computer at any time.
Visit srd.sassa.gov.za
Open your browser and navigate to the official SRD portal at srd.sassa.gov.za. Make sure you are on the correct website - do not use any third-party sites.
Select 'Change My Details'
On the homepage, look for the option to update or change your personal details. This may be listed under 'My Profile' or 'Update Details'.
Enter Your ID Number
Provide your 13-digit South African ID number. The system will look up your account.
Verify with an OTP
SASSA will send a one-time PIN (OTP) to your currently registered cellphone number. Enter this OTP to verify your identity. If you no longer have access to the old number, you will need to use Method 2 (in person).
Enter Your New Phone Number
Type in your new South African cellphone number. Double-check the number before confirming - an incorrect number could lock you out of your account.
Confirm the Change
Submit the change. You will receive a confirmation SMS on your new number. Future communications from SASSA will be sent to this new number.
Method 2: Change Your Phone Number at a SASSA Office
For all grant types, or if you no longer have access to your old phone number, you can update your details in person at any SASSA office. This is the most reliable method, especially if you have lost your old SIM card.
Bring Your Original ID
You must bring your original South African ID document (not a copy). SASSA will use this to verify your identity.
Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
Go to any SASSA office during working hours (Monday to Friday, 07:30 to 16:00). You do not need an appointment.
Request a Phone Number Update
Tell the official at the reception desk that you need to update your cellphone number. They will direct you to the correct service point.
Verify Your Identity
A SASSA official will verify your identity using your ID document and may ask security questions. In some cases, you may need to complete eKYC (electronic identity verification).
Provide Your New Number
Give the official your new cellphone number. They will update it on the system and you should receive a confirmation SMS within 1 to 3 working days.
Method 3: Update via WhatsApp
SASSA offers a WhatsApp service that can assist with certain account changes. Send a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number 082 046 8553 and follow the automated prompts to request a phone number update. Note that this method may still require verification through your old number or an in-person visit.
Method 4: Update via USSD
You can also try updating your details by dialling *134*7737# from your cellphone. Follow the menu prompts to request a change of phone number. This service is free of charge. However, the USSD method has limited functionality and you may still need to visit a SASSA office for the change to be finalised.
Important Tips
Only one phone number per grant: Each SASSA grant account can only have one registered cellphone number. Updating your number will replace the old one entirely.
Beware of scams: SASSA will never ask for your PIN, password, or banking details via SMS or phone call. Only use official SASSA channels to update your information.
Keep a record: After changing your number, make a note of when you made the change and through which method. This can be helpful if there are any issues later.
SIM swap protection: If you are doing a SIM swap with your network provider, update your SASSA details after the SIM swap is complete and your new SIM is active.