Fix SASSA SRD R370 “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error & Get Paid!

Getting rejected for the SASSA SRD R370 grant because of the “alternative income source identified” error can feel unfair especially when you’re truly in need.

This error usually means your bank shows more money than allowed. Here’s how to fix it.

What Does the “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error Mean?

This specific decline reason means that SASSA flagged your application because your bank records showed total monthly deposits above R624, which is the income limit for SRD eligibility.

Even if the money wasn’t technically yours, SASSA’s system detects all deposits, regardless of the source, and counts them.

If they total more than the threshold in any bank or mobile wallet account linked to your South African ID, your application is declined.

How to Fix the SASSA “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error? (Step-by-Step)

If you know you meet the income requirement and think this rejection was wrong, you can appeal it. Here’s how to do that:

Step 1: Visit the SASSA Appeals Page

Go to the official SASSA appeals portal at:

https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/appeal

Step 2: Enter Your Details

Type in your South African ID number and cellphone number used during your original SRD application.

Step 3: Submit a Reconsideration Request

Click “Application for Reconsideration.” You’ll get a form where you can explain why the rejection is incorrect.

Step 4: Prepare Your Evidence

Gather your bank statements or e-wallet transaction history for the month you were declined. Ensure they clearly show:

• All deposits
• Dates of deposits
• That the total amount is below R624

If you received money from someone else (like a once-off family gift), explain it in detail.

Step 5: Upload Documents and Submit

Attach your bank proof. Write a clear explanation. Then click submit.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

SASSA will review your appeal and either approve or reject based on the documents. This may take a few weeks. Check the Appeal status often on the same appeal portal.

Why SASSA Checks for Alternative Income Sources?

The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is only for individuals with little or no income. To ensure fairness, SASSA reviews monthly financial activity from your accounts.

If it looks like you’re getting financial support from somewhere else called “alternative income” you’re marked as ineligible.

SASSA checks income from:

• All bank accounts in your name
• E-wallets or digital wallets
• Any mobile money account connected to your ID

They don’t consider the source only the total deposit amount matters. SASSA payments or previous SRD payouts do not count against you.

Common Reasons for Getting “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error

Let’s break down the usual cases that lead to this error:

1. Shared Bank Accounts

If you share a bank account with a spouse or partner who earns income, their deposits still show under your name. SASSA counts it as your income even if it isn’t.

2. Freelance or Side Work

You might have done temporary work or earned money from small gigs. Even minor freelance payments can add up and push your total over R624, resulting in a rejection.

3. Mobile Money Transfers

Multiple small e-wallet deposits from friends or family members sent to help you can cross the threshold. Even though it’s support, SASSA still sees it as income.

4. Bank-to-Bank Transfers from Others

If someone sends you money to pay bills or help you, it still counts unless you explain it during an appeal. No exceptions are made unless you provide evidence.

Tips to Avoid Future SASSA Rejections

If your appeal is approved or you’re applying again next month, here’s how to prevent the error from coming up again:

Use Personal Accounts Only

Make sure the bank account linked to your SRD application is only in your name. Don’t use shared accounts.

Avoid Using Business or Family Wallets

Don’t link digital wallets or bank accounts you use for freelance work or family support. Open a separate one for SRD.

Keep Financial Records

Always have your monthly bank statements ready. It helps if SASSA ever needs proof.

Update Bank Details with SASSA

If you change your bank or digital wallet, update the details at https://srd.sassa.gov.za immediately.

What If Your SASSA Appeal is Still Rejected?

If your appeal gets denied again, and you still believe the rejection is wrong, here are your next steps:

Visit a SASSA Office

Head to your nearest SASSA branch. Request a manual review of your financial records. Sometimes face-to-face explanations help.

Request Legal Aid

You can get free legal help from organizations like:

• Legal Aid South Africa
• ProBono.Org

They can guide you on submitting a formal appeal beyond SASSA’s digital system.

Important Entities Involved

• SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) – The official body managing SRD grants.
• Department of Social Development (DSD) – Oversees welfare programs like SRD.
• National Treasury – Sets financial thresholds such as the R624 income rule.
• Legal Aid SA & ProBono.Org – Offer help with appeals or unfair rejections.

Conclusion

If you were unfairly rejected from receiving the SASSA SRD R350 grant due to an “alternative income source identified” error, don’t panic. The appeals process is your chance to correct the mistake as long as you provide solid bank proof and keep your financial accounts clean and separate.

Always stay below the R624 limit, submit accurate info, and check your appeal status often. With the right documents, many applicants successfully overturn this error and get the help they need.