Have you seen messages about a R700 SASSA grant on WhatsApp or Facebook and wondered if it’s real? Many South Africans are asking the same question, especially when money is tight. But before you click or apply, it’s important to understand what SASSA really offers and how scammers use fake grants to steal your information.
What Is the R700 SASSA Grant?
There is no official R700 grant offered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). The messages going around are fake and have not been announced by SASSA or the Department of Social Development.
These false claims often appear on:
- WhatsApp broadcasts
- Facebook posts
- Fake websites
- SMS links
They usually include links asking people to “apply now” or “claim your free R700.” These links are dangerous because they collect personal details like ID numbers, phone numbers, and bank information.
What Does SASSA Actually Offer in 2025?
SASSA provides a range of legal and verified grants, but none of them include a R700 grant. Below are the official grant types and their amounts as of April 2025:
| Grant Type | Amount (April 2025) |
| Older Persons (60–74) | R2,310 |
| Older Persons (75+) | R2,330 |
| Disability Grant | R2,310 |
| Child Support Grant | R560 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,250 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,310 |
| War Veterans Grant | R2,330 |
| Social Relief of Distress (SRD) | R370 |
Important: If a new grant is introduced, SASSA will announce it through official channels only—never on random social media posts.
How the Fake R700 Grant Scam Works?
The scam is carefully designed to look real. It often uses SASSA logos, government colours, and fake testimonials. Here’s how it usually tricks people:
- Fake Link Sent by SMS or WhatsApp
- Message: “Apply for your R700 SASSA grant today! Click here…”
- Fake Website Opens
- It asks for your ID number, phone number, bank details, and sometimes even a password.
- No Real Grant Is Paid
- Once your details are collected, you receive no money. But scammers now have your private info.
- Data May Be Used for Fraud
- They may use your ID number to open fake accounts or try to claim real benefits in your name.
What Does SASSA Say About the R700 Grant?
SASSA has officially confirmed that the R700 grant is fake. They’ve shared alerts on:
- Their official website (www.sassa.gov.za)
- Their Twitter/X account (@OfficialSASSA)
- Their Facebook page (South African Social Security Agency – SASSA)
SASSA regularly warns the public to avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing personal info with unknown sources.
⚠️ “SASSA will never ask for your bank details over WhatsApp, SMS, or Facebook links.” – Official SASSA Statement
How to Check If a Grant Is Real?
Use these simple steps to verify any new grant:
- Check SASSA’s official website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Call the SASSA helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- Visit a local SASSA office
- Follow SASSA on verified social media accounts
If the information is not on these platforms, it’s not real.
Why Do People Fall for These Scams?
Many South Africans are in financial distress, especially with:
- High unemployment
- Rising food and transport costs
- Limited access to accurate news
Scammers take advantage of this desperation by offering fake hope through R700 grant lies. These scams exploit vulnerability, especially in rural areas where internet literacy may be low.
What Happens If You Fall for It?
If you’ve already clicked on one of these links and submitted your details:
- Contact your bank immediately
Report that your ID and bank info may be compromised. - Report to SASSA fraud unit
Email: fraud@sassa.gov.za - Avoid sharing the fake message
Even if you mean well, forwarding it can spread the scam further.
Tips to Stay Safe from SASSA Scams
- Never trust links sent via WhatsApp or SMS unless verified.
- Don’t share personal details online unless on official government sites.
- Ignore giveaways claiming “first 1,000 people get paid”—SASSA doesn’t work like that.
- Warn friends and family, especially the elderly or those less familiar with online scams.
SASSA Grants Are Free to Apply For
Remember: SASSA does not charge application fees for any of its grants. Whether you’re applying for the Older Person’s Grant, Disability Grant, or SRD R370, the process is always free.
If someone asks you to pay money to “unlock” a grant, they are scamming you.
Where to Get Help or Report a Scam
- SASSA Official Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Fraud Reporting Email: fraud@sassa.gov.za
- The Black Sash (Support and Advice)
📧 help@blacksash.org.za | 📞 072 66 33 73
Conclusion
The so-called SASSA R700 grant is not real. It’s a scam targeting South Africans during hard times. Trust only verified information from SASSA and other official government channels. Protect yourself and your community by not sharing unconfirmed links, and always double-check any new grant claims.
Stay informed. Stay safe. And don’t give away your personal info to scammers.
Contents
- 1 What Is the R700 SASSA Grant?
- 2 What Does SASSA Actually Offer in 2025?
- 3 How the Fake R700 Grant Scam Works?
- 4 What Does SASSA Say About the R700 Grant?
- 5 How to Check If a Grant Is Real?
- 6 Why Do People Fall for These Scams?
- 7 What Happens If You Fall for It?
- 8 Tips to Stay Safe from SASSA Scams
- 9 SASSA Grants Are Free to Apply For
- 10 Where to Get Help or Report a Scam
- 11 Conclusion