How to Get SASSA OTP (One Time Pin) in 2025?

Trying to update your SASSA SRD details or change your registered number, but the OTP just won’t come through? While you don’t need an OTP to check your status, you’ll definitely need one to verify your identity when making changes or lodging an appeal.

This guide helps you request, receive, and troubleshoot your SASSA OTP step by step.

What Is the SASSA OTP Code?

The SASSA OTP is a 6-digit code sent via SMS to your registered cellphone. It confirms your identity during sensitive actions like:

• Updating your mobile number
• Changing your bank details
• Submitting an appeal
• Verifying your account for updates

🔒 It’s part of SASSA’s 2-step verification system, rolled out to protect your profile from fraud.

Note: You don’t need an OTP to check your SASSA status — that part’s open without code verification.

When Do You Need the OTP?

Here’s when SASSA asks for the OTP:

• You’re trying to change your cellphone number
• You want to update payment or banking details
• You’re submitting a reconsideration or appeal
• You’re accessing your profile to make major updates

If you’re doing any of the above on the srd.sassa.gov.za portal, you’ll be asked to enter the OTP before the system accepts the change.

How to Request the SASSA OTP Code?

Follow these steps:

1. Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za
2. Scroll to the section you need (change phone, appeal, update banking, etc.)
3. Enter your ID number and registered cellphone number
4. Click on “Send OTP”
5. Wait for the SMS with your 6-digit code

You’ve got 15 minutes to use the code before it expires.

Didn’t Get the OTP? Try This

If your OTP hasn’t come through, try these quick checks:

1. Restart your phone

Sometimes your SIM just needs a reset to pick up fresh network signals.

2. Make sure your number is correct

The system only sends the OTP to the number linked to your SASSA profile. If the number is old, blocked, or no longer in use, the code won’t come.

3. Wait and try again later

If you clicked “Send OTP” more than once, the first code is the only one that works. Wait 15 minutes for the old one to expire, then send a new request.

4. Check your phone’s signal

No bars? No code. Make sure you’re in an area with full network coverage.

What Does “Invalid Token” Mean?

If you see an “invalid token” message, it usually means:

• You waited too long and the OTP expired
• You entered an old OTP
• You entered the wrong code multiple times

❗Don’t keep guessing. Wait 24 hours and try again to avoid getting locked out.

Still Not Receiving the OTP? Do This

If you’ve followed all steps and still don’t get the OTP:

📞 Contact SASSA directly:

• Call: 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free)
• WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
• Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za

Have your ID number ready and explain that you’re not getting the OTP.

Can You Get OTP by Email Too?

Yes. Since early 2025, SASSA started sending OTPs to both your registered phone and email address if you’ve added both on your profile.

To make sure you receive OTPs by email:

1. Log into your SASSA SRD profile
2. Add your active email under “Update Contact Details”
3. Confirm the change with a valid OTP (yes, you’ll need one first)

Now future OTPs may reach both your email and phone.

Important Rules About the SASSA OTP Code

• It expires in 15 minutes
• Only use the latest OTP you receive
• Don’t share it, not with family, not with anyone
• You’ll never be asked to share your OTP over WhatsApp, email, or phone by SASSA staff

Keep it private. That code gives access to your full profile.

What If You Lost Your Registered Number?

If you can’t access the phone number registered with SASSA anymore:

1. Visit your nearest SASSA office
2. Bring your original ID document
3. Request to update your cellphone number on your SRD profile
4. You might be asked to fill in a short form or provide a sworn affidavit

After the number is updated, you can request a new OTP using your new SIM.

Why the OTP System Matters?

SASSA’s OTP system exists to:

• Stop fraud
• Confirm identity
• Protect your personal data

Without it, anyone with your ID number could access your SRD profile. That’s why it’s strict, timed, and secure.

Quick Recap – Getting Your OTP Code in 2025

Here’s the short version:

• OTP only needed for changes/appeals — not for checking status
• It’s a 6-digit code sent by SMS (or email if added)
• You have 15 minutes to use it
• Use your registered cellphone only
• “Invalid token” = expired/used/incorrect code
• Lost your number? Go to SASSA to update it

Final Tip:

If you’re changing numbers, switching phones, or moving around, always update your contact info with SASSA. It makes OTP delivery smooth and fast.