SASSA Status Check USSD Code (*120*3210#)

You can check your SASSA SRD grant status using a USSD code directly from your phone. No data or internet is needed. Simply dial *120*69277# (works on all networks), *134*7737# (MTN only), or *120*3210# (alternative code). Follow the prompts, enter your ID number, and get your status in seconds.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you dial a USSD code to check your SASSA status, make sure you have the following ready:

• Your 13-digit South African ID number. This is the same ID number you used when you applied for the SRD grant. It must be exactly 13 digits.
• The cellphone number you used in your SASSA application. Your phone number is linked to your application. You should dial the USSD code from this same phone if possible.
• A small amount of airtime. USSD codes do not use mobile data, but your network may charge a small USSD session fee (usually less than R1). Make sure you have a little airtime on your phone.

You do not need a smartphone. USSD codes work on any phone, including basic feature phones. You also do not need Wi-Fi or mobile data. This makes USSD one of the easiest and cheapest ways to check your SASSA status without data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check SASSA Status via USSD

Follow these steps carefully. The process takes less than two minutes.

Step 1: Choose the correct USSD code for your network.

There are three USSD codes you can use:

• *120*69277# — Works on all networks (Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom). This is the recommended code.
• *134*7737# — Only works for MTN users.
• *120*3210# — An alternative code that works on all networks.

Step 2: Open your phone’s dialler.

Go to the screen where you normally make phone calls. This is the keypad or dial pad on your phone.

Step 3: Type in the USSD code.

Enter the full code including the star (*) and hash (#) symbols. For example, type *120*69277# exactly as shown. Do not add any spaces.

Step 4: Press the call or dial button.

Press the green call button just like you would when making a normal phone call. A USSD session will start on your screen.

Step 5: Follow the on-screen prompts.

A menu will appear on your screen. Select the option for “SRD Status Check” or “Check Grant Status.” The exact wording may vary slightly.

Step 6: Enter your 13-digit ID number.

When the system asks for your ID number, type all 13 digits carefully. Double-check before you press send. For example: 9001015009087.

Step 7: Enter your cellphone number.

Type the phone number you used when you applied for your SASSA SRD grant. This must match the number on your application.

Step 8: Wait for your status to appear.

The system will process your request. After a few seconds, your SASSA SRD grant status will display on your screen. Read the message carefully and note down the result.

If you prefer a different method, you can also check your SASSA status via SMS or use the Moya App.

What Your Status Result Means

After completing the USSD steps, you will see a short message with your current status. Here are some common results you might see:

• Approved: Your SRD grant of R370 per month has been approved. Payment will be made according to the payment schedule.
• Pending: Your application is still being reviewed. SASSA is running verification checks. You need to wait.
• Declined: Your application was not successful. You may have failed the means test (income above R624 per month) or another verification check. You can lodge an appeal.
• Payment in progress: Your grant has been approved and the money is being processed for payment.

For a full explanation of every possible status message, visit our SASSA status meanings guide. Understanding your result is important so you know what to do next.

Common Problems When Checking via USSD

Sometimes the USSD method does not work perfectly. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.

Problem: The session times out or gives a network error.

This usually happens when the network is busy. Wait a few minutes and try again. You can also try a different USSD code. For example, if *120*69277# does not work, try *120*3210# instead. If the problem continues, check our guide on SASSA status check not working.

Problem: “Invalid ID number” error.

Make sure your ID number is exactly 13 digits long. Do not include any spaces, dashes, or letters. Only numbers. If you keep getting this error, read more about SASSA status check errors and how to fix them.

Problem: “Phone number not found” or “No application found.”

This means the phone number you entered does not match the number on your SASSA application. You must use the same cellphone number that you used when you first applied for the SRD grant. If you have changed your number, you may need to update your details through the official SASSA portal.

Problem: USSD code does not work at all.

Some phones or SIM cards may have USSD services blocked. Contact your network provider to check. Also, make sure you are dialling the code correctly with the * and # symbols.

Always use only the official USSD codes listed above. Be aware of scams and fraudulent codes that try to steal your personal information.

Alternative Ways to Check Your SASSA Status

If USSD does not work for you, there are several other ways to check your SASSA SRD grant status. Each method is free or very low cost.

• SMS: Send “STATUS” followed by your 13-digit ID number to 32555. Standard SMS rates apply. Read the full SMS status check guide.
• Moya App: A data-free smartphone app where you can check your status, update banking details, and lodge appeals. See our Moya App guide.
• Online Portal: Visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status using any web browser. You will need internet access for this.
• WhatsApp: Save 082 046 8553 and send “Hello SASSA” or “Status” to start the process.
• Phone: Call the SASSA toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm).

For a complete overview of all methods, visit our how to check SASSA status hub page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it cost money to check SASSA status with USSD?

USSD does not use mobile data, so there is no data charge. However, your network provider may charge a small USSD session fee, usually less than R1. You need a small amount of airtime on your phone. It is one of the cheapest ways to check your status.

Which USSD code should I use?

If you are unsure, use *120*69277# because it works on all South African networks including Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. If you are on MTN, you can also try *134*7737#. The code *120*3210# is an alternative that also works on all networks.

Can I check someone else’s SASSA status using USSD?

You can enter another person’s ID number, but you may also need to provide the phone number they used in their application. The system may only respond if the request comes from the registered phone number. For privacy reasons, it is best for each person to check their own status.

How often can I check my SASSA status via USSD?

There is no strict limit on how many times you can dial the USSD code. However, checking too frequently will not change your status faster. We recommend checking once a week or after SASSA announces a new payment cycle. If your status has not changed in a long time, contact SASSA directly at 0800 60 10 11.

What if the USSD code keeps giving me errors?

First, try a different USSD code from the list above. If none of the codes work, try the SMS method as an alternative. You can also visit the no-data status check guide for more options that do not require internet access.