How to Recover Your SASSA SRD Reference Number in Minutes?
Can’t update your SASSA phone number or banking details because you lost your SRD reference number? You’re not the only one, it happens all the time.
Whether you deleted the message or never saved it, don’t panic. With your South African ID and registered cellphone, SASSA makes it simple to get your reference number back.
How to Recover Lost SASSA Reference Number? (Quick Summary)
Contents
- 1 How to Recover Lost SASSA Reference Number? (Quick Summary)
- 2 What Is a SASSA Reference Number?
- 3 Do You Need the Reference Number to Check Your Status?
- 4 Why You Might Need Your Reference Number?
- 5 4 Easy Ways to Recover Your SASSA Reference Number
- 6 Table: Summary of All Recovery Methods
- 7 What If You Changed Your Phone Number?
- 8 How to Keep Your Reference Number Safe?
- 9 Still Can’t Recover It?
- 10 Final Thoughts
- 11 Frequently Asked Questions
- 11.1 Q. Can I check my SASSA status without a reference number?
- 11.2 Q. Is the reference number the same as the application ID?
- 11.3 Q. How long does it take to recover the reference number?
- 11.4 Q. Can I recover the reference number without a phone?
- 11.5 Q. Do I need the reference number to reapply for SRD?
To recover your lost SASSA reference number, call the SASSA toll-free number at 0800 60 10 11 or email [email protected]. Provide your South African ID number, full name, and the cellphone number used during your SRD R370 grant application. SASSA will verify your details and resend your reference number.
What Is a SASSA Reference Number?
Your SASSA reference number is a 6-digit code linked to your social grant application. It’s created when you first apply for the SASSA SRD R370 grant or other grants through the South African Social Security Agency.
While it’s not needed to check your status, it’s very important for:
- Updating your banking details
- Changing your phone number
- Submitting an appeal for a rejected application
- Speaking to a SASSA agent about your file
Think of it as your application ID. It helps SASSA find your record fast when you need help.
Do You Need the Reference Number to Check Your Status?
No, you do not need your reference number to check your SASSA status.
To check your SRD R370 grant status, you only need:
- Your 13-digit South African ID number
- The phone number used in your application
Just visit srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status, enter both details, and you’ll see your current payment info.
Why You Might Need Your Reference Number?
You may need your SASSA reference number if you:
- Lost access to your phone number and want to update it
- Need to reapply for the grant after being declined
- Want to file an appeal
- Need help from a SASSA call center agent
That’s where recovering it becomes important.
4 Easy Ways to Recover Your SASSA Reference Number
You can get your lost SASSA reference number back in four official ways, using the same ID and phone number you applied with.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Check Online at SASSA SRD Website
This is the fastest method if you have data or Wi-Fi.
Steps:
- Go to: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status
- Enter your ID number
- Enter the phone number you used in your application
- Tap “Submit”
- Your application details and reference number will show
Quick Tip: Take a screenshot or write it down this time.
2. Use SASSA’s WhatsApp Number
If you prefer using WhatsApp, you can get your reference number sent to your phone.
Steps:
- Save this number: 082 046 8553
- Open WhatsApp and message the word “Status”
- Follow the prompts (you’ll need your ID and registered phone number)
- Wait for a message with your reference number
This works 24/7 and doesn’t require airtime, just data or Wi-Fi.
3. Use the USSD Code (*120*3210#)
No data? No problem. SASSA offers a USSD method that works on any cellphone.
Steps:
- Dial *120*3210# on the phone linked to your SASSA account
- Enter your ID number
- Follow the prompts to confirm your details
- Your reference number will display on your screen
Note: Only works on the same number you used when applying.
4. Call the SASSA Help Line (0800 60 10 11)
If you prefer to speak to a person, call SASSA directly.
Steps:
- Dial 0800 60 10 11 (toll-free)
- Press 1 to talk to a consultant
- Say you want to recover your reference number
- Provide your ID number and registered phone number
- The agent will check and give reference Number to you
Best to call during working hours (Monday to Friday, 8AM to 4PM).
Table: Summary of All Recovery Methods
| Method | Steps |
| Online | Visit srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status, enter ID + phone number |
| Message “Status” to 082 046 8553 and follow prompts | |
| USSD Code | Dial *120*3210#, enter ID, see reference number on screen |
| Call SASSA | Call 0800 60 10 11, speak to agent, give ID + phone, receive reference |
What If You Changed Your Phone Number?
If you no longer use the phone number linked to your SASSA application, you won’t be able to use WhatsApp, USSD, or online tools. You’ll need to:
- Call SASSA’s toll-free number
- Explain your situation
- Provide your ID number
- Answer security questions
Once verified, they can help you change your number and access your reference number.
How to Keep Your Reference Number Safe?
Once you recover your SASSA reference number, protect it like you would your bank PIN. Here’s how:
- Write it down and keep it somewhere safe
- Save it as a note on your phone (with a backup)
- Email it to yourself for future reference
- Don’t share it with anyone who isn’t helping you officially
Still Can’t Recover It?
If none of the above options work, visit your nearest SASSA office with:
- Your valid South African ID book/card
- Any document or SMS related to your grant
Ask a staff member to help you recover your reference number. This is often the last resort if you’ve lost access to your phone and email.
Final Thoughts
Even though you don’t need a reference number to check your SASSA status, it’s still an important piece of information for managing your SRD R370 grant or any other social grant.
Thankfully, recovering it is simple, free, and only takes a few minutes whether you choose online, WhatsApp, USSD, or a phone call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I check my SASSA status without a reference number?
Yes. Just use your ID number and registered phone number at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/status.
Q. Is the reference number the same as the application ID?
Yes, they’re the same. It’s the number given when you first applied.
Q. How long does it take to recover the reference number?
Most methods are instant if your phone and ID match the SASSA records.
Q. Can I recover the reference number without a phone?
Only through the SASSA call center or by visiting a SASSA office in person.
Q. Do I need the reference number to reapply for SRD?
Yes, if you’re appealing or updating key details like banking or phone number.
I’m Mbali Mhlongo, founder of SASSACheckStatus.com with over 3 years of experience helping SASSA beneficiaries. I write informative blogs, share updates, and provide step-by-step guidance on grants, payments, and status checks. My mission is to make SASSA support easy, reliable, and accessible for everyone in South Africa.
