SASSA e-KYC Verification 2026 — What It Is and How to Complete It

SASSA e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) is a biometric identity verification process some SRD applicants must complete before their grant can be paid. If your status has been stuck on Pending, e-KYC may be the reason.

What Is SASSA e-KYC?

e-KYC is a digital identity check that verifies your identity using biometric data — typically a selfie or facial scan compared against your Home Affairs records. It replaces the need to visit a SASSA office for in-person identity verification.

SASSA uses e-KYC to:

• Confirm you are the real person applying
• Prevent fraud and identity theft
• Complete verification for beneficiaries who could not be verified via other methods

Do You Need to Complete e-KYC?

Not all applicants need e-KYC. SASSA selects beneficiaries who need to complete it based on:

• Identity verification failures in their system
• First-time applicants with no prior verification history
• Beneficiaries flagged for additional checks

You will receive an SMS from SASSA asking you to complete e-KYC if it is required.

How to Complete SASSA e-KYC

1. Go to srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/ekyc
2. Enter your 13-digit SA ID number
3. Enter your registered phone number and enter the OTP sent to you
4. Follow the on-screen instructions — you may need to take a selfie or scan your face using your phone camera
5. Allow camera access when prompted
6. Submit the verification

The process takes about 5 minutes on a smartphone with a working camera.

Tips for Successful e-KYC

• Use a smartphone with a good front-facing camera
• Ensure good lighting — natural light works best
• Remove glasses or hats that cover your face
• Follow the on-screen instructions carefully (look straight at camera, blink when asked)
• Use the same phone number registered with SASSA

What Happens After e-KYC?

Once e-KYC is completed successfully, SASSA updates your record and re-runs the verification. Your status should change from Pending within 5–10 working days.

e-KYC Not Working?

Common issues:

• Camera not working — try a different browser (use Chrome on Android)
• OTP not received — your registered number may be outdated; update it first
• Verification failing — ensure you are in good lighting and holding the camera steady

If you cannot complete e-KYC online, visit a SASSA office with your ID for in-person biometric verification.

Check your SASSA status after completing e-KYC to monitor when it updates.

srdsassagov.io is an independent resource. Not affiliated with SASSA or the South African Government. For official services visit srd.sassa.gov.za.