Why Does Your SRD Grant Say “Referred SAFPS”?

So you visit our website and go to the SASSA status check page, and you find out that “Referred SAFPS” status, and now you are confused about it, right? Well, this is a thing to be concerned about, as the SAFPA stands for “Southern African Fraud Prevention Service”. So now it means your application status is under the supervision of SAFPA.

This means that your application for the SRD grant can be marked as fraudulent. This is why you need to understand why this status comes and how you can avoid it if you are not doing anything wrong.

What is the Referred SAFPS?

The term “Referred SAFPS” means your SRD grant application has been flagged and sent to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS). SAFPS is a trusted and independent body in South Africa that works to prevent fraud and identity theft. Many banks, credit providers, and government agencies use SAFPS to check if an identity has been involved in any suspicious activity.

When your SRD status says “Referred SAFPS,” it means SAFPS is reviewing your application for possible fraud. This usually happens when your ID or personal information matches a profile in their fraud database. It may also mean that someone has tried to apply for the SRD grant using your details without your knowledge.

This status is serious and should not be ignored. It could delay or stop your SRD payments. Do two things at once. Phone SAFPS to ask why your ID is flagged, and go to a SASSA office with your ID so your application details can be checked. If the month was declined, lodge your appeal before the 90 days run out. You should also make sure all your personal details on the SASSA application are correct.

Protect your identity and act fast if you are not involved in any fraud. SAFPS will help you fix any issues if the referral was made in error.

What Causes the Referred SAFPS Status for SRD Grant?

Here are some of the possible reasons that can cause your SASSA status, as referred to as SAFPA.

Stolen Identity

Someone may have used your ID number to apply for the grant. If SAFPS finds a match with fraud cases, your application gets flagged.

Wrong Personal Details

If your name, ID number, or other details are entered incorrectly, it may look suspicious. This can trigger a referral to SAFPS.

Linked to a Fraud Case

Your details may be in the SAFPS fraud database by mistake or from an old case. Even if it was not your fault, the system marks your application as risky.

Multiple Applications

If the system finds more than one SRD application using the same details, it may suspect fraud and refer it to SAFPS.

Banking or Contact Info Mismatch

If your bank account or cellphone number doesn’t match your ID, it can raise a red flag. This may cause your case to go to SAFPS for further checks.

How to Fix a “Referred SAFPS” Status Issue?

If your SRD grant status says “Referred SAFPS,” it means your application has been sent to the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS). This happens when the system suspects identity fraud or incorrect details. Don’t panic and follow these steps to fix this issue.

1. Contact SAFPS Immediately

You must contact SAFPS to find out why your application is flagged.

Use any of the following ways:

  • Phone: +27 (0)11 867 2234
  • Email: safps@safps.org.za

When you contact SAFPS, explain your issue clearly. Tell them your name, ID number, and that your SRD status says “Referred SAFPS.” Ask for help to understand why this happened. 

If someone stole your identity, report it in full detail. Share anything that can prove the fraud, like messages, documents, or alerts from banks or other services.

2. Fix Identity Issues

If SAFPS confirms that your ID was used by someone else, they will help you clear your name. You might need to send proof like your ID copy, police report, or affidavit. Follow their instructions step by step. This will help remove your name from the fraud list.

3. Check Your SASSA Details

Go to srd.sassa.gov.za and open your application with your ID number and your registered phone number. Make sure your ID number, phone number, and bank account match. Wrong details can also trigger the “Referred SAFPS” status. Fix any wrong details on the application you already have. Do not submit a second application, because two applications on the same ID can trigger this flag again.

4. Appeal to the Department of Social Development (DSD)

If your SRD application is declined or fails, you can appeal the decision. Lodge your appeal within 30 days of the decline, and never later than 90 days. You must lodge a separate appeal for every declined month. The appeal is decided by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA), which sits under the Department of Social Development (DSD).

To appeal:

  1. Visit the DSD appeal page at https://srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals/ (opens in a new tab)
  2. Enter your ID number and cell phone number.
  3. Pass the OTP verification and proceed to the appeal application form.
  4. Fill out the application form with your valid details and choose the reason for the appeal.
  5. Submit your application online.

F.A.Q

Can I still apply for other SASSA grants if I have a “Referred SAFPS” status?

Yes, but your SRD grant will stay blocked until SAFPS clears your identity from their fraud list.

Will SASSA inform me when SAFPS clears my name?

No, you must check your SRD status regularly on the SASSA website to see any updates.

How long does it take to resolve a “Referred SAFPS” case?

It depends on the case, but most are resolved within a few weeks if you provide the correct documents.

Can I get help from a SASSA office about the SAFPS referral?

Yes. Go to a SASSA office with your ID. SASSA holds your application, so SASSA is the one that can check your details and reopen your record. SAFPS only deals with the fraud listing itself. If the month was declined, also lodge an appeal on srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals within 90 days.