SRD Status "Referred" — What It Means and How to Fix It

Published: 20 June 2026 Modified: 29 June 2026 Independent guide. Check your official status and complete any verification only on srd.sassa.gov.za. Written by: Themba Matlou

Is "Referred" the same as declined?

No. Declined means you were rejected for that month. Referred means SASSA needs to verify something before it can pay you — your case is still under review, and there is a strong chance of approval once you are verified.

Why your status says "Referred"

Common reasons:

• A random internal verification or quality-assurance check.
• Identity (biometric / eKYC) verification is still needed.
• Your ID or phone number was flagged by the fraud-prevention database (SAFPS).
• More than one application is linked to your ID — or someone used your ID.
• Your details do not match Home Affairs, or you recently changed your name, surname or number.

The 3 types of "Referred" (check which one you have)

Your exact wording tells you what to do.

How to fix a "Referred" status (step by step)

1. Log in at srd.sassa.gov.za and look for a "Request Identity Verification" option. If it is there, select it and follow the SMS link sent to your registered number. See the full identity verification guide.
2. No link, or no smartphone? Go to your nearest SASSA office with your ID. Staff take your fingerprints and photo to verify you in person — often the fastest fix.
3. If it says "Referred: SAFPS": call SAFPS on 0860 101 248, ask why you are flagged, and request removal. If your ID was used by someone else, open a police affidavit first.
4. Send proof to SASSA: once SAFPS clears you, email referred@sassa.gov.za with your ID number, application reference and cleared details.
5. Keep checking your status - do not assume it is fixed; confirm the wording actually changes. Check your SRD status here.

How long does it take, and when will I be paid?

There is no fixed turnaround time. Some cases clear in a week or two; others take much longer, especially when SASSA's verification system is busy or temporarily offline. Once your status updates to "Approved," your payment date appears in the normal last-week-of-the-month SRD cycle - see approved but no payment date if that happens next.

Will I get back pay for the months I was stuck?

Usually, yes. Once you are cleared to "Approved," SASSA generally processes the months you missed during the review. These are paid per month on the schedule, not as a single lump sum.