Fixing “Identity Verification Failed” In 5 Actionable Steps

The “Identity Verification Failed” status poses a significant challenge for many beneficiaries who may not understand its meaning or how to resolve the issue to start receiving the SRD grant.

You may encounter this status on your R370 SRD grant application for several reasons.

We’ve created this guide to help clarify this verification grant status and outline steps to address it.

Let’s get started.

Possible Reasons for Identity Verification Failed

This newly implemented measure aims to combat common SASSA SRD fraud, such as profile impersonation and misuse of personal information.

Here are some common causes:

Incorrect Personal Information: If the personal details submitted in the application (like ID number, name, and surname) do not match the records maintained by the Department of Home Affairs, the verification will fail.
Data Entry Errors: Errors made while entering information, including typos or incorrect details, can lead to verification failures.
Invalid ID Document: If the ID document used for verification is expired, damaged, or otherwise invalid, it can result in failure of the process.
Duplicate Applications: Submitting multiple applications with the same ID number or personal details may create conflicts within the system, causing a failed verification.
Inconsistent Records: Discrepancies between the information provided to SASSA and other government databases (like the Home Affairs database) can lead to verification failure.
Unregistered or Incorrectly Registered ID: If the ID number is not registered or is incorrectly registered with the Department of Home Affairs, the verification will not succeed.
Technical Issues: Occasionally, technical glitches or system errors within SASSA or Home Affairs databases can hinder the verification process.
Fraud Detection: Any suspicion of fraudulent activity related to the application may lead to the verification process being flagged and subsequently failing.

If you receive an “Identity Verification Failed” status, it’s crucial to review all provided personal information to ensure it is accurate and current.

How to Fix The Verification Status

#1. Verify Grant Information

Access your grant and double-check the supplied information to ensure accuracy. If you have recently changed your name with Home Affairs, remember to update your details in SASSA’s systems as well. Ensure your banking details are correct and align with your personal information at SASSA and Home Affairs. Keep in mind that Home Affairs verification is one of the methods SASSA uses to confirm SRD grant beneficiaries’ information.

#2. Verify Home Affairs Information

It’s essential to identify where your information may be misaligned or incorrect. Visit Home Affairs in person to review their records and correct any discrepancies. Compare these details with what you have on SASSA, and look for minor errors that could indicate which system requires an update.

#3. Go for Biometric Verification

After correcting your personal information at Home Affairs, visit your local SASSA branch for a biometric identity verification. They may use facial recognition and fingerprint scanning technologies to verify your identity against the records.

#4. Appeal the Identity Verification Failed Status

After addressing the discrepancies in your information, it’s time to appeal the failed status to seek approval for your grant. Follow the outlined steps to appeal the decision, clearly stating the reasons related to identity verification and detailing all corrective actions taken. Remember, you have a 30-day window to appeal the identity verification failed status to secure payments for the next grant cycle.

#5. Wait for Feedback

Fixes will not be processed immediately; it will take some time for SASSA to review and rectify the updated information.Patience is key, so be sure to appeal early in the month to allow ample time for processing, ensuring you can receive approval for that month’s payment cycle.