The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) introduced the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant as part of a R500 billion social and economic support package in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The SRD grant aims to financially assist unemployed individuals unable to meet their basic needs.
However, certain situations could lead to a roadblock, one of which is receiving the “Alternative Income Source SRD Status” message on your application.
This message essentially means that SASSA has identified an alternative source income of more than R595 per month for you, resulting in your grant application being declined. The basis of this decision lies in the principle that the SRD grant is meant for individuals with no other substantial financial means.
Breaking Down the SASSA Verification Process
Understanding the SRD grant application review process can help make sense of the “Alternative Income Source” status. SASSA conducts a thorough evaluation, known as a means test, of the bank accounts associated with SRD grant applications.
It checks the:
- Amount of income: If more than R595 per month is received, it can lead to an application rejection.
- Frequency of income: Regular income inflow could also result in a rejection.
- Nature of income: The type of income also matters. For instance, regular pensions are considered an alternative income, while one-off payments may not be. Means income source identified is a problem for this.
Is There a Way Out? Appealing the ‘Alternative Income Source SRD Status’
If you believe there’s been an error in your application rejection, SASSA allows you to lodge an appeal. This step should be taken within 30 days of the rejection. Here’s how to go about it:
To do so, they can follow the steps outlined in the source
- Visiting the SRD Website at https://srd.sassa.gov.za, finding the “Application for Reconsideration” tab, and providing their ID number and mobile number.
- Also provides steps on how to appeal your status online with SASSA Relief Grant. By visiting the SASSA Appeals Website, entering your ID number and telephone number, lodging an appeal, and providing reasons as to why you believe you were declined on an unfair basis.
- The process for appealing an “Alternative Income Source’ SRD Status” is the same, which is visiting the SRD Website, finding the “Application for Reconsideration” tab, and providing your ID number and mobile number.
Tracking Your Appeal
Upon lodging the appeal, you should track its status to stay informed about the outcome. SASSA typically updates the status of appeals within 30-90 days.
In Conclusion
Understanding and effectively managing the “Alternative Income Source SRD Status” is crucial for your SRD grant application. Remember, this grant is intended to support those in the greatest need. However, if you believe your situation has been misunderstood or unjustly declined, you have the right to appeal.
This grant aims to provide financial support to unemployed individuals struggling to meet their needs of themselves and their families..
Helpful Resources
Kholwa Larence – Experienced Information Management and Grant Administration Expert
Kholwa Larence is a highly qualified and experienced South African woman who has been working in the field of information management and grant administration for over five years. She has a strong educational background, having completed postgraduate studies at the University of Cape Town in information management and grant administration. Kholwa’s passion for helping citizens access and manage their grant payments led her to found the website sassastatuscheckr350.co.za. This free-to-use website allows citizens to easily check their Sassa payment statuses and ensures that they have up-to-date information about their grants.