We've all been there. You need your SASSA SRD R370 reference number for something important, and it's nowhere to be found.
Don't worry, retrieving it is easier than you might think!
In this guide, I'll walk you through recovering your reference number using WhatsApp, step-by-step.
This method is convenient and works as long as you have a smartphone and an internet connection.
Before We Begin
Make sure you have WhatsApp installed on your phone and an active internet connection.
You'll need your South African ID number and the phone number you used when applying for your SASSA grant.
This Is How Step-by-Step
1. Add SASSA to your WhatsApp Contacts
Open your WhatsApp app and tap on the "Contacts" section (may vary depending on your phone and WhatsApp version).
Look for the option to "Add New Contact" or similar wording.
In the new contact creation menu, enter SASSA's WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
Save the contact under a name you'll remember easily, like "SASSA Status".
2. Initiate a Chat with SASSA
Open your WhatsApp chats and find the "SASSA Status" contact you just created.
Tap on the contact to open a new chat window.
3. Send the Magic Word
In the chat window, type the word "Status" and send it to SASSA.
This message will trigger the automated response system.
4. Follow the Prompts
You'll receive a response from SASSA with a few options.
These options might be displayed as text or numbered choices.
Look for the option related to "Status Check" or "Reference Number Retrieval".
It might be displayed as a number (e.g., option 2) or a specific word.
Reply to SASSA's message with the corresponding number or word based on the choices presented.
For example, if "Status Check" is option 2, you would reply with "2.
5. Confirm Reference Number Retrieval (if prompted)
In some cases, SASSA might ask you to confirm if you want to retrieve your reference number.
If prompted, reply with "Yes" to confirm your request.
6. Verify Your Identity
SASSA will likely ask you to verify your identity to ensure security.
You'll be prompted to enter your South African ID number followed by the phone number you used during your SASSA application.
Double-check that you enter this information accurately to avoid delays.
7. Receive Your Reference Number
Once SASSA verifies your details, they will send your SASSA SRD R370 reference number directly within the WhatsApp chat window.
It will be a unique combination of letters and numbers.
8. Save Your Reference Number (Optional)
It's a good idea to screenshot the chat window containing your reference number or copy and paste it into a secure note-taking app for future reference.
Congratulations! You've successfully retrieved your lost SASSA reference number using WhatsApp. Now you can use it for any purpose required by your SASSA application.
