Privacy Policy

How we protect and use your personal information

Our Commitment to Privacy

SASSA is committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and other applicable South African legislation.

Information We Collect

When you apply for or receive a social grant, we collect:

  • Personal details: Name, ID number, date of birth, contact information
  • Financial information: Income, assets, bank account details
  • Family information: Marital status, dependents, household composition
  • Medical information: For disability and care dependency grants
  • Employment history: Current and previous employment status

How We Use Your Information

Your information is used to:

  • Process and assess grant applications
  • Verify eligibility and prevent fraud
  • Make monthly grant payments
  • Conduct periodic reviews and audits
  • Improve service delivery and policy making
  • Comply with legal and regulatory requirements

Information Sharing

We may share your information with:

  • Government departments: Home Affairs, South African Revenue Service (SARS), Department of Health
  • Payment providers: Banks and payment service providers for grant distribution
  • Law enforcement: When required by law or to investigate fraud
  • Service providers: Third parties who help deliver SASSA services (bound by confidentiality agreements)

We never sell your personal information to third parties.

Your Rights Under POPIA

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal information held by SASSA
  • Request corrections to inaccurate information
  • Object to processing in certain circumstances
  • Request deletion of information (subject to legal retention requirements)
  • Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator

Data Security

We protect your information through:

  • Secure IT systems with encryption and access controls
  • Regular security audits and updates
  • Staff training on data protection
  • Physical security at SASSA offices
  • Strict access policies limiting who can view your data

Data Retention

We retain your information for as long as necessary to:

  • Provide grant services
  • Comply with legal obligations (typically 5-7 years after grant ends)
  • Resolve disputes or conduct audits

Website Privacy

This website may use cookies to improve user experience. No personally identifiable information is collected through website browsing unless you submit an online form.

Contact

For privacy concerns or to exercise your rights:

  • Phone: 0800 60 10 11
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mail: POPIA Officer, SASSA Head Office, 501 Prodinsa Building, Cnr Stanza Bopape & Pretorius Streets, Pretoria, 0001

Last updated: March 2026