If you notice unexpected or unauthorized deductions from your SASSA grant, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to prevent further unauthorized charges. Carefully review your SASSA grant statements to identify any suspicious or unwanted deductions that you did not authorize.
To submit a formal dispute, send an SMS with the word “Dispute” to 34548. In your message, include your ID number, full name, the name of the company making the deduction, policy details, and the duration of the deduction.
Clearly state “Did not consent” as the reason for your dispute. After receiving your dispute, SASSA will begin an investigation into the disputed transactions and the company responsible for the deductions.
What are The Common Unauthorized Deductions?
Before disputing unauthorized deductions from your SASSA grant, it’s important to know the common types of unauthorized transactions:
Airtime and Data: Deductions occur when mobile airtime services or contracts are added without consent.
Bank Charges: Unauthorized bank charges may happen if beneficiaries are forced to open unnecessary bank accounts.
Funeral Policies: Many beneficiaries are unknowingly signed up for funeral policies, leading to unauthorized deductions.
Life Insurance: Similar to funeral policies, deductions for insurance policies may be made without consent.
Loan Repayments: High-interest loan repayments may be deducted by untrustworthy lenders.
Retail Store Accounts: Beneficiaries might have retail store accounts opened without their knowledge, resulting in deductions.
Membership Fees: Deductions for gym or club memberships might be made without consent.
How to Check the Unauthorized Deduction From Your SASSA Grant?
First, regularly check your account balance and transaction history. Look for any unfamiliar transactions. By monitoring your account, you can quickly spot any deductions that you did not authorize.
Detect Unauthorized Transactions via Balance Check
To detect any illegitimate deductions from your SASSA grant account, start by regularly checking your account balance. This helps you monitor how much money you have and identify any unnecessary deductions.
Here are the ways to check your SASSA grant account balance:
Dial the USSD code *120*69277# from your SASSA registered phone number. If this code returns a busy response, try dialing *120*3210#.
Use your SASSA card to check your balance at any nearby ATM or retailer.
Send a message to the SASSA WhatsApp number at +27820468553 to check your balance.
Visit a SASSA office or partnered pay point. Bring your ID card and the mobile number you used for your SASSA application, as they will verify your identity before checking your balance.
Identify Unauthorized Transactions by Checking Transaction History
Another way to detect unauthorized activities in your SASSA grant account is to check your transaction history. Here’s how you can do it:
From ATM: Use your SASSA card to check your transaction history at any ATM.
From SASSA Office: Visit your nearest SASSA office in person to request an account statement. Provide your ID card and necessary details to the representative.
By Calling SASSA Helpline: Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 to request your transaction history.
How to Dispute and Stop Unauthorized Deductions?
You can follow the following steps to dispute the charges for unauthorized deductions in your SASSA grant.
Step 1: Gather Information
Note the names of the companies that deducted amounts from your grant.
Write down the exact dates and amounts of each deduction.
Add up the total amount deducted so far. This may be needed later in the dispute process.
If you can’t identify the company making the deductions, call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 for help.
Step 2: File a Dispute by SMS to Q-Link
After gathering all the necessary information about the companies making unauthorized deductions, follow these steps to file a dispute by SMS to Q-Link at “34548”:
In the first line, write “Topic: Dispute”.
On the second line, write your South African ID card number.
On the third line, write your full name and surname exactly as they appear on your ID card.
In the next line, write the name of the company (FSP Name) that you are disputing.
Write how long the company has been deducting amounts from your account.
In the last line, write the reason for the dispute (e.g., “I never signed a contract” or “Misrepresentation”).
Step 3: Follow Up by Calling SASSA Helpline
Once you’ve sent your dispute message successfully, it’s important to follow up promptly by calling the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11. When you call, be prepared to provide your ID number or any other requested documents to verify your identity.
Processing Time for Disputes
The processing time for disputes may be resolved in a matter of days to weeks. However, more complex cases involving unauthorized policies or loans can take weeks to months. The processing time also depends on the current workload of the authorities handling the disputes.
Refund of Deducted Money
If SASSA confirms that the money was deducted from your account without your consent, you will receive a full refund. However, it’s important to note that refund policies and success rates can vary. For specific guidance related to your case, it is advisable to seek advice from SASSA officials. They will provide you with the relevant information and assistance based on the specifics of your situation.
Tips to Prevent Unauthorized Deductions
Here are some essential tips to keep your funds secure:
Never share your SASSA card PIN with anyone.
If your SASSA card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to SASSA.
Avoid sharing any personal information with marketing companies. They may use this information to gain unauthorized access to your account.
Stay vigilant by regularly checking your bank statements or SASSA card transaction history for any suspicious deductions or activities.
If you notice any deductions you didn’t authorize or understand, contact your bank or SASSA immediately for clarification and resolution.
Before signing any agreements, carefully read and understand the terms, particularly those related to deductions from your grant.
Report any fraudulent or unauthorized activity related to your SASSA grant to SASSA immediately. Timely reporting can help prevent further unauthorized transactions and protect your funds.
