Need to check your SASSA R370 grant status but don’t have internet access? SMS and USSD codes provide a fast, reliable way to get your grant status directly on any mobile phone – no smartphone or data required.
Quick Answer: Dial 120*69277# (spells SASSY) on any network or SMS your ID number to 32551 for instant SASSA status updates.
SASSA USSD Codes for All Networks
Universal USSD Code (All Networks)
Dial: 120*69277#
- Works on MTN, Vodacom, Cell C, Telkom
- Free to use on most networks
- Available 24/7
- Instant results
Network-Specific USSD Options
| Network | USSD Code | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | 12069277# | Free | Most reliable |
| Vodacom | 12069277# | Free | Fastest response |
| Cell C | 12069277# | R1.50 | Standard rate |
| Telkom | 12069277# | Free | May be slower |
SMS Methods for SASSA Status Check
Primary SMS Method
Send to: 32551 Message Format: Your 13-digit ID number only Example: 9001015009081
Response Time: 2-5 minutes Cost: R1.50 per SMS (standard rate) Works on: All networks
Alternative SMS Numbers
- SMS to: 31539 – Backup service
- SMS to: 32450 – Alternative option during high traffic
Step-by-Step SMS Status Check Guide
Method 1: Using USSD Code
Step 1: Open your phone’s dialer Step 2: Dial *120*69277# Step 3: Press the call button Step 4: Follow the menu prompts:
- Select “1” for R370 Status Check
- Enter your 13-digit ID number
- Press “Send” or “#” Step 5: Wait 10-30 seconds for your status
Method 2: SMS to 32551
Step 1: Open your SMS/Messages app Step 2: Create new message to 32551 Step 3: Type only your ID number: 9001015009081 Step 4: Send the message Step 5: Wait 2-5 minutes for response
Method 3: SMS to WhatsApp Alternative
Step 1: Save 082 046 8553 to your contacts Step 2: Send WhatsApp message: “Hi” Step 3: Follow prompts for status check Step 4: Provide ID number when requested
If you prefer the convenience of online checking, you can also check SASSA status through our web-based tool which provides instant results without SMS costs.
Cost Breakdown for SMS Status Checks
Free Options
- USSD 12069277# – Free on MTN, Vodacom, Telkom
- WhatsApp to 082 046 8553 – Free with data/WiFi
- Toll-free call – 0800 60 10 11 (free from any phone)
Paid Options
- SMS to 32551 – R1.50 per message
- Cell C USSD – R1.50 per session
- Standard SMS rates apply for all text messages
Money-Saving Tip
Use the free USSD code *120*69277# first. Only use SMS if USSD doesn’t work on your phone. For the most comprehensive information, you can check SRD status online which provides detailed payment history and additional features.
Information You Need Ready
Required Information
- South African ID Number (13 digits)
- Registered cellphone number (the number you applied with)
Optional but Helpful
- Application reference number (if available)
- Date of last application
- Current banking details
Understanding Your SMS Response
Status: APPROVED
Example Response: “Your R370 SRD application is APPROVED. Payment date: 15 Jan 2025. Method: Bank transfer. Reference: SRD123456”
What this means:
- Your grant is approved
- Payment will be processed on the date shown
- Money will go to your registered bank account or collection point
Status: PENDING
Example Response: “Your R370 SRD application is PENDING review. Expected decision: 5-10 working days. Reference: SRD789012”
What this means:
- Application is still being processed
- No action needed from you
- Check again in a few days
Status: DECLINED
Example Response: “Your R370 SRD application is DECLINED. Reason: Income above threshold. You may reapply when circumstances change.”
What this means:
- Application does not meet current requirements
- Reason for decline is provided
- You can appeal or reapply if circumstances change
Status: UNDER REVIEW
Example Response: “Your R370 SRD application is under review. Additional verification required. Contact SASSA if urgent.”
What this means:
- SASSA needs to verify some information
- May require additional documents
- Contact SASSA for specific requirements
Troubleshooting SMS Status Check Issues
Problem: “ID Number Not Found”
Solutions:
- Double-check your ID number – Ensure all 13 digits are correct
- Wait 24-48 hours after applying before checking
- Use the exact ID number from your application
- Try WhatsApp method as alternative: 082 046 8553
Problem: “Service Temporarily Unavailable”
Solutions:
- Try during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening)
- Use alternative SMS number 31539 instead of 32551
- Try USSD code instead: 12069277#
- Call toll-free number 0800 60 10 11
Problem: “Invalid Format”
Solutions:
- Send only your ID number – no spaces, letters, or other text
- Use 13 digits – include leading zeros if necessary
- Don’t include country code or + symbol
- Example correct format: 9001015009081
Problem: No Response Received
Solutions:
- Check your airtime balance – ensure you have sufficient credit
- Wait longer – responses can take up to 10 minutes during busy periods
- Check phone storage – clear SMS memory if full
- Try from different phone to test if it’s a device issue
Problem: “Phone Number Not Registered”
Solutions:
- Use the same number you applied with
- Update your details at nearest SASSA office
- Call SASSA directly 0800 60 10 11 to update phone number
- Bring ID document when updating contact details
For immediate results without waiting for SMS responses, you can try the WhatsApp method or call the toll-free number for instant assistance.
Best Times to Check SASSA Status via SMS
Recommended Times
- Early morning: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- Lunch time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Avoid These Times (High Traffic)
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Peak morning usage
- Month-end – Payment processing periods
- Public holidays – System may be slower
Alternative Status Check Methods
If SMS Doesn’t Work
1. WhatsApp Status Check
- Save: 082 046 8553
- Send: “Hi”
- Follow prompts
- Advantage: More detailed responses
2. Toll-Free Phone Call
- Dial: 0800 60 10 11
- Available: Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM
- Advantage: Speak to human agent
3. Online Status Check
- Visit: srd.sassa.gov.za
- Enter ID and phone number
- Advantage: Full details and history
4. SASSA Office Visit
- Find nearest office: sassa.gov.za
- Bring ID document
- Advantage: Face-to-face assistance
For the fastest and most detailed results, many users prefer to check SASSA status online which provides comprehensive information including payment history and detailed status explanations.
Common SMS Scams to Avoid
Legitimate SASSA SMS Sources ONLY:
- 32551 – Official SASSA SMS number
- 31539 – Backup SASSA SMS service
- 082 046 8553 – Official SASSA WhatsApp
Warning Signs of SMS Scams:
- Requests for banking details via SMS
- Messages asking for PIN numbers or passwords
- Unofficial numbers claiming to be SASSA
- Messages requesting payment to receive grants
- Urgent language pressuring immediate action
Protection Tips:
- Never share banking details via SMS
- Don’t click links in suspicious messages
- Verify any unusual requests by calling 0800 60 10 11
- Report scams to SASSA immediately
Official SASSA Contact Information
For SMS Issues or Support
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
For Technical Problems
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Complaints: [email protected]
Why Choose SMS Status Checking?
Advantages of SMS Method
Works on Any Phone
- No smartphone required
- No internet connection needed
- Works on basic feature phones
Low Cost
- USSD codes often free
- SMS rates are standard (R1.50)
- More affordable than data usage
Fast Response
- Immediate USSD results
- SMS responses within 5 minutes
- Available 24/7
Secure
- Official SASSA channels only
- No personal information stored
- Direct from government systems
Universal Access
- Works in rural areas
- No WiFi required
- Functions with weak signal
Limitations to Consider
Limited Detail
- Basic status information only
- No payment history
- Less detailed than online checking
Basic Format
- Text-only responses
- No visual interface
- Limited interactive options
Quick Reference Card
Save this information for easy access:
| Method | Code/Number | Cost | Response Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| USSD | 12069277# | Free* | 10-30 seconds |
| SMS | 32551 | R1.50 | 2-5 minutes |
| 082 046 8553 | Free* | 1-2 minutes | |
| Call | 0800 60 10 11 | Free | Immediate |
*Free with data/airtime
Pro Tips for SASSA SMS Status Checking
1. Keep Records
- Screenshot or save status responses
- Note reference numbers for future use
- Track payment dates for planning
2. Regular Checking
- Check monthly around expected payment dates
- Verify after application submission
- Confirm after any changes to your details
3. Use Multiple Methods
- Start with free USSD code
- Try SMS if USSD doesn’t work
- Use WhatsApp for detailed responses
- Call for complex issues
4. Prepare Information
- Save your ID number in your phone
- Keep reference numbers handy
- Know your registered phone number
What to Do After Checking Your Status
If Status is APPROVED
- Note the payment date from the SMS
- Verify your banking details are correct
- Plan for payment arrival
- Save the reference number
If Status is PENDING
- Wait patiently for processing
- Check again in 5-7 days
- Ensure your contact details are updated
- Don’t submit multiple applications
If Status is DECLINED
- Read the decline reason carefully
- Check if you can appeal the decision
- Gather supporting documents if needed
- Consider reapplying when circumstances change
If No Status Found
- Verify your ID number is correct
- Check if you applied with this phone number
- Wait 48 hours after application
- Contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11
For ongoing monitoring of your grant status with detailed tracking and payment history, consider visiting the official SASSA website or using their WhatsApp service which provides real-time updates and additional features not available through SMS.
Remember: Your R370 SRD grant is a constitutional right, not charity. Over 25.4 million South Africans rely on social grants – you’re not alone in needing this support.