If you have the wrong phone number on your SASSA SRD account, you will not receive OTPs, payment date SMS messages, or identity verification links. This guide shows you exactly how to fix your phone number online, through the Moya app, or at a SASSA office so you can stay connected to your R370 grant.
Why a Wrong Phone Number Causes Problems
Your phone number is one of the most important details on your SASSA SRD account. SASSA uses it for nearly every communication and security step. When the wrong number is on your account, several things go wrong:
You cannot receive OTPs (One-Time Passwords). SASSA sends OTPs to your registered phone number to verify your identity when you log in, update details, or complete certain actions. Without access to these OTPs, you are locked out of important account functions.
You miss payment date notifications. SASSA sends SMS messages telling you when your R370 payment is ready for collection or has been deposited. If the wrong number is on file, someone else may receive these messages — or no one receives them at all.
Identity verification fails. Since May 2025, SASSA sends verification links via SMS that must be completed within 72 hours. If the link goes to the wrong number, you cannot complete the verification, and your payment may be held.
Status check may not work. When checking your status online, you need to enter the phone number linked to your account. If you do not know which number is on file, the status check will fail. Visit the SASSA status check page for more information on checking your status.
How to Fix Your Phone Number on SASSA — Step by Step
There are three main ways to update your phone number. The method you choose depends on whether you still have access to your old phone number.
Method 1: Update Online Through the SRD Portal
This method works if you still have access to your old phone number (the one currently on your SASSA account), because SASSA will send an OTP to that number to confirm the change.
- Open your browser and go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/.
- Log in using your 13-digit South African ID number.
- Navigate to the section where you can update your personal details. Look for “Update Details” or “Account Settings.”
- Select the option to change your phone number.
- Enter your new, correct phone number.
- SASSA will send an OTP to your old phone number to verify that you are the account holder.
- Enter the OTP to confirm the change.
- Your new phone number will now be linked to your account.
For a more detailed walkthrough with screenshots and tips, visit the complete guide to changing your SASSA phone number.
Method 2: Update Through the Moya App
The Moya app is a data-free application available on Android and iOS. You can use it to manage your SASSA SRD account without using any mobile data.
- Download the Moya app from the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS).
- Open the app and navigate to the SASSA SRD section.
- Log in with your ID number.
- Find the option to update your phone number.
- Follow the prompts to enter your new number and verify the change.
The Moya app is a good option if you have limited data, as it works completely data-free.
Method 3: Visit a SASSA Office in Person
This is the best option if you no longer have access to your old phone number. When you cannot receive the OTP sent to the old number, online methods will not work. You must visit a SASSA office.
- Find your nearest SASSA office using the SASSA office finder.
- Bring your original South African ID document (smart ID card or green ID book).
- Bring the SIM card with your new phone number, already inserted in your phone.
- Tell the SASSA agent that you need to update the phone number on your SRD account.
- The agent will verify your identity in person and update your phone number on the system.
- You may receive a confirmation SMS on your new number once the change is processed.
SASSA office hours are generally Monday to Friday. Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially at the beginning and end of the month.
What If You Cannot Access Your Old Phone Number?
If your old SIM card was lost, stolen, or deactivated, you cannot receive the OTP needed to change your number online. In this case, your only option is to visit a SASSA office in person.
Here is what to bring:
- Your original South African ID document
- Your phone with the new SIM card
- If your old SIM was stolen, a police case number can help (though it is not always required)
You can also try calling the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm) to ask if they can assist over the phone. However, for security reasons, most phone number changes require an in-person visit.
For all the ways to contact SASSA, visit the SASSA contact information page. For a full overview of managing your account, see the SASSA account management guide.
How to Prevent Phone Number Problems
Keeping your phone number up to date on your SASSA account is essential. Here are some tips to avoid problems:
Update your number immediately when it changes. If you get a new SIM card or switch networks, update your SASSA account on the same day. Do not wait until payment day to discover that your old number is no longer working.
Keep your SIM card active. Most South African networks deactivate SIM cards after 90 days of inactivity. If you have a separate SIM linked to your SASSA account, make at least one call or send one SMS every few months to keep it active.
Write down which number is linked to your SASSA account. If you have multiple SIM cards, it is easy to forget which one you used. Write it down or save a note on your phone.
Do not share your OTPs with anyone. SASSA will never ask you to share your OTP over the phone or via WhatsApp. If someone asks for your OTP, it is a scam.
For general troubleshooting help, visit the SASSA troubleshooting hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my SASSA phone number online without the old number?
No. To change your phone number online, SASSA sends an OTP to your old phone number for verification. If you no longer have access to the old number, you must visit a SASSA office in person with your ID document. This is a security measure to protect your account.
How long does it take for the phone number change to take effect?
If you update your phone number online or through the Moya app, the change usually takes effect immediately or within a few hours. If you update it at a SASSA office, it may take up to 48 hours for the system to fully update. During this time, check your status at https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status to confirm everything is working.
Will changing my phone number affect my SASSA payment?
Changing your phone number should not affect your payment directly. However, if you change your number close to payment day, you may not receive the payment date SMS on the new number. Your payment will still be processed as normal. Check the SASSA payment dates page to stay informed.
What if someone else changed my SASSA phone number without my permission?
If you suspect unauthorized changes to your account, visit a SASSA office immediately with your ID document. Report the issue and ask them to verify and correct your details. You should also report the incident to the police if you believe fraud has occurred. Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 for urgent assistance.
Can I use a family member’s phone number for my SASSA account?
It is recommended to use your own phone number. Using someone else’s number means they will receive your OTPs, payment notifications, and verification links. This creates a security risk and can cause problems if that person is not available when you need an OTP. Always use a phone number that you personally control.