How Can I Stop Unauthorized Deductions from My SASSA Grant?

Have funds gone missing from your SASSA grant without your approval? Many South Africans face unauthorized deductions, often without knowing who took the money or why.

Here’s how to stop these deductions and protect your income.

What Are Unauthorized Deductions on SASSA Grants?

Unauthorized deductions are money taken from your SASSA grant without your consent or full understanding. These are often linked to services or contracts you never agreed to.

Common unauthorized deductions include:

• Life insurance premiums for policies you didn’t sign up for
• Loan repayments not clearly explained or agreed to
• Airtime or data bundles purchased without your knowledge
• Funeral cover deductions from unknown providers

These deductions reduce the amount of money you receive each month. If left unchecked, they can continue for years.

How to Check Your SASSA Grant Transactions?

Before taking any steps, verify your transactions to confirm if deductions are truly unauthorized.

Ways to check your SASSA balance:

• Use your SASSA Gold Card/SASSA Black Card at any approved retailer for a balance inquiry
• Dial *120*3210# or *120*69277# on your mobile phone
• Visit a local SASSA office or pay point
• Call SASSA’s toll-free helpline: 0800 60 10 11

To view your full statement:

• Visit the nearest SASSA branch and request your transaction history
• Ask for a printed statement that includes all recent deductions

Carefully go through each deduction and note any suspicious charges.

How to Stop Unauthorized Deductions from SASSA? Steps

If you see a deduction you didn’t approve, you must act quickly. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather All Information

Collect details such as:

• Your ID number and full name
• Company name making the deduction
• The amount deducted
• The date of the first and latest deduction
• The duration the policy or service has been active
• The reason you believe the deduction is unauthorized

This helps make your case clear when you dispute the charge.

Step 2: Submit a Dispute via SMS

Send a dispute message to Q-Link, the company that handles deduction complaints for SASSA.

Text the following details to “34548”:

• Topic: Dispute
• Your ID number
• Your full name and surname (as it appears on your ID document)
• FSP Name: The company you are submitting a dispute against
• Duration of the policy: How long the company/policy has been deducting money from your account
• Reason for dispute: I did not sign a contract / misrepresentation

Make sure all details are correct to avoid delays.

Step 3: Follow Up with SASSA

After sending the SMS:

• Call the SASSA helpdesk at 0800 60 10 11
• Confirm that they received your dispute
• Ask for next steps and provide any documents they request

Some users may be asked to submit a written affidavit, especially for serious disputes like fraudulent loan deductions.

How Long Does It Take to Process a Dispute?

There is no fixed timeline, but most disputes are processed in 2 to 6 weeks. Cases involving life insurance or loans may take longer due to investigations.

SASSA will review your submission and check if the service provider obtained your consent. If the company cannot prove authorization, SASSA can cancel the deduction and possibly arrange a refund.

Will I Get My Money Back?

Refunds are possible only if the deduction is proven unauthorized. While not guaranteed, many users receive refunds after successful disputes.

Refunds may be processed directly by the company that made the deduction, not by SASSA. Always request confirmation in writing if a refund is approved.

Tips to Prevent Future Deductions

Once the issue is resolved, follow these simple rules to avoid further deductions:

• Never share your SASSA PIN with anyone, not even family
• Ignore calls or texts asking for your grant details
• Avoid signing up for funeral or insurance services linked to SASSA unless fully understood
• Check your monthly statements to catch unauthorized charges early
• Report a lost or stolen card immediately to stop misuse

Who to Contact for Help?

If you need help or your dispute is not progressing, contact:

• SASSA Toll-Free Line: 0800 60 10 11
• Q-Link SMS Line: 34548
• Nearest SASSA Office: Bring your ID and proof of deductions
• Legal Aid South Africa: For legal advice on unfair deductions

These resources can help escalate your case if needed.

Important Facts About Unauthorized Deductions

• SASSA is not allowed to approve deductions without beneficiary consent
• The Social Assistance Act protects beneficiaries from unauthorized deductions
• Companies must have a signed agreement or voice recording to justify deductions
• Q-Link handles all third-party deductions for SASSA and can block future deductions once a dispute is approved

Final Thoughts

Unauthorized deductions take money meant for basic needs. Acting fast helps protect your grant and stops losses from building up. Always verify your statements, keep your card details safe, and follow the official dispute process.

With the right steps, you can stop unfair charges, secure your funds, and stay informed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What number do I SMS to stop SASSA deductions?

Send your dispute to 34548 using the proper format.

Q. How long does it take to fix a SASSA deduction?

It can take a few days to a month, depending on the case.

Q. Can I get my money back after an unauthorized deduction?

Yes, if the deduction is confirmed to be unauthorized.

Q. Is it safe to give my ID or card details over the phone?

No. Never share your ID, SASSA card number, or PIN by phone.

Q. What do I do if I lost my SASSA card?

Report it immediately to SASSA and request a replacement at your local office.