SASSA Identity Verification (e-KYC) Explained

If you’ve applied for an SASSA grant, especially the SRD R370 grant, you may be asked to complete an identity verification step before your application can move forward. This guide explains what SASSA identity verification generally involves and when you might need to complete it. This is general information only — always follow the specific instructions given to you on the official SASSA SRD website.

Quick answer: SASSA identity verification, often referred to as e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer), is how SASSA confirms you are who you say you are, usually by checking your ID details and, in some cases, a facial biometric check, before approving or continuing your SRD application.

Quick Facts

e-KYC stands for electronic Know Your Customer, an identity check used mainly for the SRD R370 grant
It can involve confirming your ID details and, in some cases, a facial biometric check
SASSA also checks applicant details against other government and financial institution databases
You may be asked to complete or redo e-KYC if your SRD status shows as “Referred”

What Is SASSA Identity Verification?

According to SASSA’s own SRD privacy documentation, SASSA carries out what it calls “Applicant Verification” — the process of determining an applicant’s eligibility for a grant — and “Identity Proofing”, which is the process of verifying a person’s identity. For the SRD R370 grant specifically, this is generally handled through an online step called e-KYC.

As part of this process, SASSA may also check your details against other databases, including the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Government Employees Pension Fund, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, and various retail banks, to confirm your eligibility and prevent fraud.

When Might You Need to Complete e-KYC?

When you first apply, as part of confirming your identity
If your SRD status shows as “Referred” and you’re asked to verify or re-verify your identity
If SASSA needs to re-confirm your details during periodic eligibility checks

If your status is showing as Referred, see our guide on what “Referred” means on your SRD status for more detail.

How to Complete Identity Verification

Go to the official SASSA SRD website.
Enter your South African ID number and log in to your application.
Look for the e-KYC or identity verification option and follow the on-screen prompts.
If asked, complete the facial biometric or photo verification step using a clear, well-lit photo.
Submit and check your status again after a few days to confirm it has updated.

Go to Official SASSA SRD Portal

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “e-KYC” mean?

e-KYC stands for electronic Know Your Customer. It’s the online identity verification step SASSA uses, mainly for the SRD R370 grant, to confirm applicants are who they say they are.

Why does SASSA need to verify my identity?

Identity verification helps SASSA confirm you’re eligible for the grant and helps prevent fraudulent applications, protecting both you and the integrity of the grant system.

What happens if I don’t complete e-KYC when asked?

Your application or status may stay unresolved until the verification step is completed, which can delay any payment you’re waiting on. Complete it as soon as you can through the official SRD portal.

Disclaimer: SA Grant Dates is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with SASSA or the South African government. Verification steps and requirements are determined by SASSA and may change. Always follow the instructions given on the official SRD portal or the official SASSA website. This page was last reviewed in August 2026.