To change your SASSA phone number, log in to srd.sassa.gov.za with your ID number, verify with an OTP sent to your old number, and enter your new phone number. If you no longer have access to your old number, visit your nearest SASSA office with your SA ID document to make the change in person.
When You Need to Change Your SASSA Phone Number
There are several reasons you may need to update the phone number linked to your SASSA account. Here are the most common situations:
- Lost or stolen phone — You no longer have access to the SIM card registered with SASSA.
- New SIM card — You changed your mobile number and need SASSA to send messages to the new one.
- Wrong number entered during application — A typing mistake when you first applied for your grant.
- Phone damaged beyond repair — You had to get a new phone and new SIM.
- Switched network provider — You moved to a different mobile network with a new number.
Your registered phone number is critical. SASSA uses it to send OTPs for verification, payment notifications, and status check updates. If your number is wrong, you could miss important information about your R370 SRD grant or other SASSA benefits.
What You Need
Before you start the process, make sure you have the following ready:
- Your SA ID number — This is required for all methods.
- Your new phone number — The number you want SASSA to use going forward.
- Access to your old phone number — This is needed for the online and Moya App methods because SASSA sends an OTP to verify your identity.
- Your SA ID document (physical copy) — Required if you need to visit a SASSA office.
If you have entered a wrong phone number and never had access to it, the office visit method is your only option.
How to Change Your SASSA Phone Number — Step by Step
Method 1: Online at srd.sassa.gov.za
This is the fastest method. It works best if you still have access to your old phone number.
- Open your browser and go to srd.sassa.gov.za.
- Enter your SA ID number and your currently registered phone number.
- SASSA will send an OTP (one-time PIN) to your old phone number. Enter this OTP to verify your identity.
- Once logged in, look for the option to update your contact details.
- Enter your new phone number carefully. Double-check it before submitting.
- Submit the change. You may receive a confirmation message on your new number.
This change takes effect immediately in most cases. Your new number will be used for all future OTPs and notifications.
Method 2: Using the Moya App
The Moya App is a data-free option, which means it does not use your mobile data. This makes it ideal if you have limited airtime or data.
- Download the Moya App from the Google Play Store if you do not already have it.
- Open the app and go to the SASSA Relief section.
- Select the option to update your details.
- Enter your ID number and verify with an OTP sent to your old number.
- Update your phone number to the new one.
- Confirm and submit.
Like the online method, you need access to your old number for OTP verification. The Moya App also allows you to update banking details and check your grant status.
Method 3: Visit a SASSA Office
If you do not have access to your old phone number, visiting a SASSA office near you is the only way to change your number.
- Find your nearest SASSA office. Offices are open Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 4pm.
- Bring your original SA ID document (not a copy).
- Take a queue number when you arrive and wait for your turn.
- Tell the SASSA staff member that you need to update your phone number.
- They will verify your identity using your ID document and update the number in the system.
Processing time for office updates is usually 1 to 3 business days. Your new number should be active in the SASSA system after that.
How Long Does It Take?
| Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online (srd.sassa.gov.za) | Immediate |
| Moya App | Immediate |
| SASSA Office visit | 1–3 business days |
Even after your number is updated, it is a good idea to do a SASSA status check to confirm everything is working correctly with your new number.
Common Problems
- OTP not arriving on old number — If your old SIM is lost or inactive, you cannot complete the online process. Visit a SASSA office instead.
- Website not loading — The SRD portal can be busy during peak times. Try early morning or late afternoon.
- “Number already in use” error — Each phone number can only be linked to one SASSA account. If someone else used your number, contact SASSA.
- Not receiving payment date SMS — After updating your number, it may take one payment cycle before SMS notifications start on the new number.
- Moya App not showing update option — Make sure you have the latest version of the Moya App installed.
For any issue you cannot resolve, call the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm) or send a WhatsApp message to 082 046 8553. See our full SASSA contact information page for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my SASSA phone number online?
Yes. Log in to srd.sassa.gov.za with your ID number, verify with the OTP sent to your old number, and then enter your new phone number. The change takes effect immediately.
What if I do not have access to my old phone number?
You will need to visit a SASSA office in person. Bring your original SA ID document. The staff will verify your identity and update your number manually.
Does changing my phone number affect my SASSA payments?
No, changing your phone number does not stop or delay your R370 SRD grant payment. However, you may not receive SMS notifications until the new number is fully active in the system.
Can I use someone else’s phone number for my SASSA account?
It is not recommended. Your phone number is used for OTPs and security verification. Using someone else’s number means they could access your account. Always use a number that belongs to you and that you control.
How do I know if my phone number was successfully changed?
Try logging in to the SRD portal using your ID number and your new phone number. If you receive an OTP on the new number and can log in, the change was successful.
Keeping your phone number up to date is one of the most important parts of managing your SASSA account. An outdated number can lead to missed payments, failed verifications, and difficulty accessing your grant information. Update it as soon as your number changes.