Losing a loved one is a difficult time, and the additional financial burden of a funeral can add to the stress.
If the deceased was a SASSA grant recipient and hadn't collected their grant for the month they passed away, their family might be eligible to claim the unclaimed amount towards funeral expenses.
Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:
Understanding SASSA Funeral Benefits:
- SASSA Unclaimed Benefits: This applies if the beneficiary dies without collecting their grant for the current month. Their family can claim the unclaimed amount for funeral expenses by following specific procedures.
- Funeral Insurance/Scheme: This involves a separate funeral insurance plan offered by a private company, with deductions made from the SASSA grant with the beneficiary's authorization. This guide focuses on claiming the unclaimed grant amount (SASSA Unclaimed Benefits).
Who is Eligible and When to Claim:
- You can only claim the unclaimed benefit if the beneficiary didn't collect their grant for the month they died. If they collected it, you won't be eligible.
- Only a legal representative or the deceased's next of kin can claim the benefit to cover funeral costs.
- Important: You cannot collect the unclaimed benefit directly.
Steps to Claim:
1. Inform SASSA about the Death:
- Call the SASSA toll-free number 0800 60 10 11 to inform them about the beneficiary's passing.
- The call centre is open on weekdays from 8 AM to 4 PM.
2. Gather Required Documents:
- Death Certificate of the deceased beneficiary.
- South African ID Card of the deceased SASSA member.
- Your ID Card (the person claiming the benefit).
- Receipt or invoice showing the total amount spent on funeral expenses.
- Proof of your relationship with the deceased (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
3. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office:
- Locate your closest SASSA office and confirm their operating hours. Most offices operate Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.
- Be prepared for queues and wait for your turn.
4. Submit Documents to SASSA Representative:
- Inform the official you're there to claim unclaimed funeral benefits.
- Provide all the required documents.
- The representative will verify the documents and initiate the processing.
5. Wait for Payment:
- SASSA typically takes 24 to 72 hours to verify and process the payment.
- If you don't receive an update within 72 hours, call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.
Important Tips:
- Ensure all documents are complete and certified to avoid delays.
- If multiple family members contributed to the funeral expenses, one invoice reflecting the total cost is required.
- Keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.
Keep in Mind That:
- This process is specifically for claiming the unclaimed grant amount for funeral expenses.
- It does not apply to funeral insurance obtained through private companies with SASSA grant deductions.
