You can check your SASSA SRD grant status by sending a simple SMS from any phone. Open your messaging app, type “STATUS” followed by a space and your 13-digit ID number, and send it to 32555. You will receive a reply SMS with your current status. No data or internet connection is needed — only a standard SMS charge of about R1 to R2 applies.
What You Need Before You Start
The SMS method is one of the simplest ways to check your SASSA status. Before you send your message, make sure you have the following:
- Your 13-digit South African ID number. You need the exact same ID number you used when you applied for the SRD grant. Write it down if you are not sure you can remember all 13 digits correctly.
- The cellphone number linked to your SASSA application. Send the SMS from the phone number you used when you applied. Using a different number may not return your status.
- Enough airtime to send one SMS. Sending an SMS to 32555 costs the standard SMS rate, which is usually between R1 and R2 depending on your network. You do not need data or internet.
This method works on any phone — smartphones, feature phones, and even very old phones. As long as your phone can send a text message, you can use this method. It is a good option if you want to check your SASSA status without data.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check SASSA Status via SMS
Follow these steps exactly. The correct format is very important for the system to process your request.
Step 1: Open your phone’s messaging app.
Find the SMS or text message app on your phone. This is the app you normally use to send and read text messages. On most phones, it is called “Messages” or has an envelope icon.
Step 2: Start a new message.
Tap the button to create a new message. On most phones, this is a “+” icon or “New Message” option.
Step 3: Enter the number 32555.
In the “To” or “Recipient” field at the top, type 32555. This is the official SASSA SMS number. Do not send your message to any other number. Be careful of scam SMS numbers that pretend to be SASSA.
Step 4: Type your message in the correct format.
In the message body, type the word STATUS in capital letters, then add a space, and then type your 13-digit ID number. Do not add anything else.
Here is an example of what your message should look like:
STATUS 9001015009087
Make sure there is exactly one space between “STATUS” and your ID number. Do not use dashes, dots, or any other characters in your ID number.
Step 5: Send the message.
Press the send button. Your phone will send the SMS to 32555. You will be charged the standard SMS rate.
Step 6: Wait for the reply SMS.
SASSA will send a reply SMS to your phone with your current SRD grant status. This reply usually arrives within a few minutes. In some cases, it may take up to 24 hours during busy periods.
Step 7: Read your status carefully.
Open the reply message from 32555 and read your status. It will tell you whether your application is approved, pending, declined, or in another state. Note down the result for your records.
What Your Status Result Means
The reply SMS will contain a short message about your SASSA SRD application. Here is what the most common results mean:
- Approved: Great news. Your SRD grant of R370 per month has been approved. You will receive payment according to the SASSA payment schedule.
- Pending: Your application is still being processed. SASSA performs various checks including the means test (your income must be below R624 per month). Be patient and check again in a few days.
- Declined: Unfortunately, your application was not approved. There are several possible reasons, including earning above the income threshold or failing identity verification. You have the right to appeal.
- Payment in progress: Your grant has been approved and the payment is being processed. The money should reach you soon.
For a complete breakdown of all possible status messages and what each one means, visit our SASSA status meanings page. Knowing what your result means helps you decide your next step.
Common Problems When Checking via SMS
The SMS method is straightforward, but sometimes things do not go as expected. Here are the most common issues and how to solve them.
Problem: No reply received.
If you have not received a reply after several hours, the system may be experiencing high traffic. Wait up to 24 hours before trying again. Make sure your phone has signal and your inbox is not full. Delete some old messages if your storage is almost full. If you still get no reply after 24 hours, try an alternative method such as USSD or the Moya App.
Problem: Error message or “invalid format” reply.
This means your SMS was not formatted correctly. Check the following: the word STATUS must be typed first, there must be a single space after STATUS, and your ID number must be exactly 13 digits with no spaces or special characters. Try sending the message again with the correct format: STATUS 9001015009087 (using your own ID number).
Problem: “No record found” reply.
This could mean that no SASSA SRD application exists for the ID number you entered. Double-check that you typed all 13 digits correctly. It could also mean you are sending the SMS from a phone number that is different from the one on your SASSA application. Try sending from the correct phone.
Problem: SMS not sending (message fails).
Make sure you have enough airtime to send one SMS (at least R2 to be safe). Check that you have network signal. If the message keeps failing, restart your phone and try again. If the problem continues, contact your network provider for help, or visit our status check not working guide for more solutions.
Important safety warning: Only send your SMS to 32555. Never reply to unknown numbers that claim to be SASSA. SASSA will never ask you for your PIN, password, or banking details via SMS. Read more about how to protect yourself from SASSA phishing SMS scams.
Alternative Ways to Check Your SASSA Status
If the SMS method is not working for you, or if you want to try a different approach, here are other options:
- USSD: Dial *120*69277# from any phone. No data needed, and it works on all networks. Read the full USSD guide.
- Moya App: A data-free app for smartphones. You can check your status, update banking details, and lodge appeals — all without data. See our Moya App guide.
- Online Portal: Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status using a phone, computer, or tablet with internet access.
- WhatsApp: Save the number 082 046 8553, send “Status,” enter your ID number, and follow the prompts.
- Call SASSA: Phone the free helpline at 0800 60 10 11. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm. For more SASSA contact details, see our contact page.
For a full list of all methods, visit our how to check SASSA status hub. You can also visit the main SASSA status check page for an overview of all your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to check SASSA status by SMS?
Sending an SMS to 32555 costs the standard SMS rate charged by your network provider. This is typically between R1 and R2. You do not need any mobile data. The reply SMS from SASSA is free. It is an affordable way to check your status if you do not have data or internet.
How long does it take to get a reply from 32555?
In most cases, the reply SMS arrives within a few minutes. However, during busy periods (such as payment days or when a new cycle opens), there may be delays. If you have not received a reply after 24 hours, try sending the SMS again or use an alternative method like USSD.
Can I check my SASSA status from a different phone number?
It is best to send the SMS from the phone number you used in your SASSA application. If you send from a different number, the system may not return your status. If you have changed your phone number since applying, you may need to update your details at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/ or visit your nearest SASSA office.
Does “STATUS” have to be in capital letters?
It is recommended to type STATUS in capital letters to make sure the system recognises it. While it may work in lowercase on some systems, using capitals is the safest approach. Always type it as: STATUS 9001015009087 (with your own ID number).
What if I accidentally sent my SMS to the wrong number?
If you sent your ID number to a wrong number, do not panic, but be aware that your ID number is sensitive personal information. Monitor your SASSA account for any unusual activity. In the future, always double-check that you are sending to 32555 only. If you are concerned, call SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 to report the issue.
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