The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has called on social grant beneficiaries to make use of its e-Life Certification self-service platform to complete their mandatory life certification process from the comfort of their homes.
This comes after some beneficiaries experienced difficulties accessing the online portal after receiving notifications to verify their details.
SASSA has apologised for the inconvenience, attributing the disruptions to system glitches linked to interfaces with other government departments.
The agency confirmed that these technical issues have now been resolved.
SASSA is now encouraging beneficiaries with access to digital tools to use the online platform rather than travelling to local offices, where long queues are common.
The e-Life Certification system is a digital service available through the SASSA Online Services Portal, allowing users to verify their status remotely.
The platform uses biometric verification through an electronic Know Your Client (KYC) system to securely confirm the identity of beneficiaries. According to SASSA, this enhanced system is designed to protect the integrity of the social grants programme while improving convenience and efficiency.
Life certification remains a legal requirement under South Africa’s Social Assistance Act. The process ensures that beneficiaries are still alive and continue to meet the criteria to receive support.
It also plays a critical role in preventing fraudulent payments and ensuring that public funds are directed to legitimate recipients.
SASSA highlighted several benefits of using the e-Life Certification platform, including reduced travel costs, faster processing times, shorter queues at service points and improved security through integration with the Department of Home Affairs systems.
Beneficiaries are reminded that life certification must be completed annually. However, those specifically instructed by SASSA to complete the process immediately must do so within the given timeframe, regardless of their grant type or age.
Failure to comply may result in payment delays or even suspension of grants, as non-compliance could be interpreted as a sign that the beneficiary is no longer eligible or may be deceased.
SASSA has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the right grant reaches the right person at the right time. The agency has also urged the public to report suspected fraud anonymously through its call centre or official email channels.
Beneficiaries can access the self-service platform via the SASSA online services portal.
To access the self service platform go to https://services.sassa.gov.za/portal/r/sassa/sassa/home. –
