Helping someone with a SASSA grant: check the formal appointment

When a grant recipient cannot attend a review, SASSA says a properly appointed procurator can act for them.

Check who can act

Regulation 26 requires the person to have identification, be at least 18, permanently resident in South Africa, willing to act and not an unrehabilitated insolvent. The beneficiary must not owe them money. A procurator may receive assistance for no more than five beneficiaries.

SASSA’s 2026 booklet lists a power-of-attorney form from its offices, certified IDs for both people, a life certificate and an affidavit confirming the money will be handed to the beneficiary. Both people must sign and fingerprint the form before a commissioner of oaths; ask SASSA about additional evidence if the beneficiary cannot sign.

If the beneficiary cannot manage the grant because of incapacity, vulnerability or abuse, ask SASSA about its administrator process. The agency makes that appointment following assessment.

Keep control of the arrangement

To end the appointment, the beneficiary must notify SASSA in writing, giving the effective date. SASSA may obtain a sworn statement where the beneficiary cannot read or write. Once aware of termination or intended termination, the procurator must immediately notify SASSA in writing and return remaining beneficiary money within 10 days of termination.

The booklet says never to share a bank PIN and that SASSA will not ask for it.

Confirm the authorised tasks before signing. Keep the appointment and later notices.

SASSA’s notice gives 0800 60 10 11 for enquiries during weekday working hours. For preparing the review itself, see TPR’s grant-review records guide.