The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially started compulsory biometric enrolment for all beneficiaries in its offices from 1 September 2025. This initiative marks a significant step in modernising the country’s social grant system, aiming to improve security and reduce fraud.
The rollout comes after extensive discussions with organised labour to resolve earlier delays. With infrastructure in place and staff trained, SASSA is now ready to implement the system nationwide.
Why SASSA is Introducing Biometric Enrolment
SASSA has faced ongoing challenges with fraudulent applications, identity manipulation, and duplicate payments. Traditional verification methods, which rely mainly on physical documents, have proven vulnerable to forgery and administrative errors.
The introduction of biometric enrolment will ensure that each beneficiary is verified using fingerprints or facial recognition. This measure enhances the integrity of the social grant system and provides proof of life verification, preventing grants from being paid to deceased individuals.
Key Features of the Biometric Enrolment
The biometric system will be mandatory for all new grant applications approved from 1 September 2025. Applicants will be required to provide either fingerprint or facial recognition data through SASSA’s electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) system.
Applications submitted without biometric data will not be processed immediately. They will undergo a review process, and applicants will be notified to complete biometric enrolment before their application can proceed.
SASSA has installed biometric devices in offices nationwide and conducted comprehensive staff training to ensure smooth and efficient enrolment.
Benefits of Biometric Enrolment
The implementation of biometrics is expected to transform social grant administration in several ways:
- Reduction in fraud and duplicate payments
- Accurate verification of beneficiary identity and proof of life
- Lower risk of inclusion errors during processing
- Stronger audit trails and record keeping
- Increased public confidence in the grant system
These improvements aim to protect government funds while ensuring that grants reach eligible beneficiaries without unnecessary delays.
Timeline and Implementation Process
Initially, SASSA planned to launch biometric enrolment at the start of the 2025/2026 financial year. Technical and administrative challenges delayed the rollout, but these issues were resolved in collaboration with organised labour.
CEO Themba Matlou confirmed that the programme will now commence on 1 September 2025. With infrastructure deployed and staff trained, beneficiaries applying for grants from this date onwards will undergo biometric enrolment as part of the application process.
SASSA’s Commitment to Beneficiaries
SASSA reassures beneficiaries that the new system is designed to protect them and improve service delivery. The agency will continue to work with stakeholders to maintain a secure and efficient grant system.
Officials involved in fraudulent activities will face strict disciplinary action, demonstrating SASSA’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
Beneficiaries with queries or concerns about grants are encouraged to use SASSA’s official channels, including the toll-free number 0800 60 1011, the agency’s website, or email communication.