Your SASSA Office Guide (2026)

1. Quick Refresher: What Is SASSA?

SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) is the government body that manages most of the social grants in South Africa, including the:

• Old Age Grant, Disability Grant, Child Support Grant, Foster Child Grant, Care Dependency Grant.
• War Veterans Grant, Grant-in-Aid, and the SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant (R370 per month).

SASSA offices remain crucial for: applying for permanent grants, submitting documents, updating details, and getting help if you struggle with online systems.

2. How to Find a SASSA Office Near You

You have a few reliable methods to locate your nearest office:

2.1 Use the Official SASSA Information Channels

• Phone the SASSA national helpline: 0800 60 10 11 – ask them to confirm the nearest office and its current hours.
• Check the SASSA website and government portals for regional lists of addresses and contact numbers.

2.2 Use Maps and Local Search

Use a map app (like Google Maps) and search “SASSA office near me”. Always double-check by calling the helpline if the address seems old or suspicious.

2.3 Ask Locals

If you don’t have internet access, ask at your local clinic, municipal office, or community worker. They often know the exact location or mobile outreach schedules.

3. SASSA Office Working Hours in 2026

While exact times can vary slightly, here is the general schedule:

Safest Rule: Aim to be there between 08:00 and 15:00 to allow buffer time for queues.

3.1 Lunch breaks and staff rotations

Service may slow down during lunch (roughly 12:30–13:30) in smaller offices. The morning (08:00–11:00) is usually the best time for quicker service.

4. SASSA and Public Holidays in 2026

SASSA offices are closed on all South African national public holidays. Avoid travelling on these dates:

Always avoid the days before and after pay days, and long weekends, as queues will be significantly worse.

5. SASSA Office Locations by Province (Key Examples)

Below are some well-known anchor points. Your nearest office might be a smaller local branch—use the helpline to confirm.

⚠️ Always Confirm: Addresses can change. Phone the helpline (0800 60 10 11) before traveling far.

6. What Services Can You Get at a SASSA Office?

6.1 Things that often require going in person

• Applying for long-term grants (Old Age, Disability, Child Support, etc.).
• Submitting original documents or certified copies (ID verification, medical forms).
• Changing details that need strong verification (ID number, surname, date-of-birth errors).
• Appointments for disability assessments or medical reviews.

6.2 Things you might be able to do remotely

If your issue is only about the SRD R370 grant, try these channels first to save time and money:

• SRD application and status check (Online portal or WhatsApp).
• Some contact detail updates.
• Helpline for general questions: 0800 60 10 11.

7. How to Prepare for Your Visit (So You Only Go Once)

7.1 Make a small checklist

Call the helpline first! For most applications, you need:

• Your South African ID (and child’s birth certificate, if applicable).
• Proof of residence.
• Proof of income (or sworn statement if unemployed).
• Banking details.
• Medical reports (for Disability grant).

7.2 Make certified copies

Get copies of all key documents certified at your nearest police station or commissioner of oaths *before* your SASSA visit to avoid queuing twice.

7.3 Plan your timing

Try to arrive early (before or around 8 AM). Avoid pay days and month-end as these are the busiest times.

8. SASSA Payments and Office Rush Hours

8.1 Peak periods

Offices are busiest around grant payment dates, at the end and beginning of the month, and just before/after public holidays.

8.2 Alternatives to collecting at SASSA offices

If your grant is paid onto your SASSA card or into a bank account, you can collect cash at:

• ATMs
• Participating retailers (e.g., Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Boxer)

Using these alternatives helps reduce congestion at SASSA offices.

9. SASSA Contact Options if You Can’t Visit

If your issue is simple (status check, payment date), use these remote channels:

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What time do SASSA offices open and close?

Most branches open between 07:30 and 08:00, and close between 16:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday.

2. Can I go to SASSA on a Saturday?

Generally, no. SASSA offices normally only operate Monday to Friday.

3. How do I find the nearest SASSA office?

Call the helpline (0800 60 10 11), check the SASSA website, or use a map app and search “SASSA office near me”.

4. Do I always have to visit SASSA in person?

No. In-person visits are usually required for new grant applications, document submission, and medical reviews. SRD issues can often be solved remotely.

5. What documents should I take to the SASSA office?

This varies by grant, but commonly includes your ID, proof of residence, banking details, and medical reports (for disability applications). Always call first to confirm the list.

11. Final Tips: How to Make SASSA Visits Less Stressful

A trip to SASSA can be tiring, but a bit of planning goes a long way:

• Call first – confirm the right office and documents.
• Avoid peak days – pay days, month-end, and days before public holidays are the worst.
• Arrive early – the earlier you’re in the queue, the sooner you’re done.
• Bring everything at once – certified copies, originals, and any forms you’ve been given.
• Look after yourself – bring water, snacks, and any chronic medication; wear comfortable shoes.