Losing your SIM, having your phone stolen, or switching to a new number can disrupt your access to the SASSA SRD grant. Many South Africans struggle to receive OTPs or payment updates because their registered phone number is outdated.
The process to change SRD contact number has evolved, and old methods like the online form no longer work.
This guide provides the latest, step-by-step instructions for how to change SRD phone number based on official SASSA updates as of April 2025, ensuring you stay connected to your R370 grant.
How to Change SASSA SRD Phone Number? (Quick Answer)
To change SRD contact number with SASSA:
- Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free).
- Say, “I need to change my SRD phone number.”
- Provide your South African ID number, old phone number (if known), and new phone number.
- Verify your identity with details like date of birth or address, if requested.
- Save the reference number provided for tracking.
- Confirm any OTP sent to your new number.
- Wait up to 14 working days for the update to process.
Tip: Call early (8–10 AM) to avoid long queues. If the change isn’t reflected after 14 days, follow up with SASSA.
Why You Need to Update Your SASSA Phone Number
An outdated phone number can prevent you from:
- Receiving payment confirmations for the SRD R370 grant
- Getting One-Time PINs (OTPs) for account or banking changes
- Reapplying for the SRD grant
- Submitting appeals for declined applications
Updating your number promptly ensures uninterrupted access to your grant and avoids delays in critical processes.
How to Change Your SRD Phone Number
As of April 2025, the SASSA change phone number process requires contacting SASSA via phone or email. The previous online form at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/contact was disabled in late 2024, so avoid outdated guides recommending this method.
Method 1: Call the SASSA Helpline (Recommended)
The fastest and most reliable way to change SRD contact number is by calling SASSA:
- Dial: 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free, available Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM).
- Request: Tell the agent, “I need to change my SRD phone number.”
- Provide:
- South African ID number
- Old phone number (if you remember it)
- New phone number
- Verify: SASSA may ask for additional details like your date of birth, address, or banking information to confirm your identity.
- Save: Write down the reference number provided during the call for tracking.
- Confirm: If SASSA sends an OTP to your new number, verify it as instructed.
- Wait: Allow up to 14 working days for the update to take effect.
Tips:
- Call between 8:00–10:00 AM to avoid long wait times.
- Have your ID and new number ready before calling.
- Follow up with SASSA if the update isn’t reflected after 14 days by calling again and providing your reference number.
Method 2: Email SASSA (Alternative)
If you can’t get through to the helpline, emailing SASSA is an option, though it’s slower and less reliable:
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Subject Line: Request to Change SRD Phone Number
- Email Body:
- Full Name
- South African ID Number
- Old Phone Number (if known)
- New Phone Number
- Reason for Change (e.g., “lost SIM,” “stolen phone,” or “new number”)
- Attachment: Include a clear photo or scan of your ID (optional, but speeds up verification)
- Wait Time: Expect a response within 7–14 working days, though delays are common during high-demand periods.
Note: The email method is prone to delays, especially during peak times like grant reapplication periods. Calling the helpline is strongly recommended for faster results.
Outdated Method: Online Form (No Longer Available)
Until late 2024, SASSA allowed users to update their phone number via the online form at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/contact. This form required your ID number and application ID, followed by OTP verification. However, this option was discontinued, and any websites or YouTube videos still promoting it are outdated or misleading. Stick to the phone or email methods outlined above.
Tips for a Successful SASSA Phone Number Change
To ensure a smooth SASSA change phone number process:
- Use a Reliable Number: Choose a phone number you’ll keep long-term to avoid future updates.
- Save Your Reference Number: This is crucial for tracking or following up on your request.
- Be Patient: SASSA handles thousands of queries daily, and delays can occur.
- Verify Your Number: Ensure your new number is active and can receive OTPs or SMS updates.
- Check Your Grant Status: After 14 days, visit srd.sassa.gov.za to confirm the number change and ensure your grant payments are on track.
- Contact SASSA for Issues: If you encounter problems, call 0800 60 10 11 with your reference number or email [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I don’t remember my old phone number?
You can still change SRD contact number without your old number. When calling SASSA or emailing, provide your South African ID number and explain that you no longer have access to the old number (e.g., due to a lost SIM). SASSA may use additional verification questions, such as your date of birth or address, to process the request.
Can I change my SRD phone number in person?
As of April 2025, SASSA encourages phone or email updates for SRD phone number changes to reduce office overcrowding. However, if you can’t use these methods, visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID and new phone number. Be prepared for longer wait times and bring proof of identity.
Why haven’t I received an OTP after updating my number?
If you don’t receive an OTP, ensure your new number is active and has network coverage. Contact SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 with your reference number to confirm the update was processed correctly. Delays in OTP delivery can occur due to system issues or high demand.
How do I check if my phone number was updated?
Log in to srd.sassa.gov.za with your ID number to check your registered phone number. Alternatively, call 0800 60 10 11 and provide your reference number to confirm the update.
Conclusion
Keeping your phone number updated is critical to receiving your SRD R370 grant without interruptions. The how to change SRD phone number process now involves calling SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 or emailing [email protected]. Provide accurate details, save your reference number, and follow up if the change doesn’t take effect within 14 days. For the most reliable results, use the helpline and call early in the morning.
Don’t know your application ID? Read this first.