The “Alternative Income Source Identified” status means that during the application assessment process, SASSA has found evidence suggesting that you have another form of income.
This additional income could come from various sources, including employment (formal or informal), investments, or other social grants.
This status typically results in the application being rejected, as it indicates the applicant may not meet the financial eligibility criteria for the specific grant they applied for.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean the applicant is ineligible for all forms of social assistance, and below is how you can fix it.
Possible Reasons for the Status:
- Shared Bank Account: If you share a bank account with someone who receives regular income, this could trigger the status.
- Incorrect Bank Details: Providing incorrect or outdated bank information might link you to another person’s income.
- Gifts and Donations: Even if money is given to you as a gift, it could be misinterpreted as regular income.
- Loans and Repayments: Loan repayments or other financial transactions might be flagged as income.
Steps to fix Sassa “Alternative Income Source Identified” Status
1. Appeal the Decision
- Submit Bank Statements: Gather bank statements for the relevant period, clearly showing all income and expenses. Ensure they are in your name and match the details on your SASSA application.
- Access the Appeals Platform: Visit the official SASSA SRD appeals website or platform. You’ll need your ID number and phone number to access your application. Visit the SRD appeals website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals
- Highlight Financial Hardship: Explain your current financial situation and how the loss of the grant will affect you.
2. Verify Bank Account Details
Double-check that the bank account linked to your SASSA application is correct and in your name.
Any discrepancies could lead to the detection of income that isn’t yours.
If your bank account details have changed, update them on the SASSA platform immediately.
3. Understand Income Thresholds
SASSA has specific income thresholds for SRD eligibility. Ensure your total monthly income from all sources is below the limit.
Review your bank statements for the past few months to identify any deposits that may have triggered the “alternative income” flag.
If there are any exceptional deposits (e.g., loan repayments, gifts), you can explain them in your appeal with supporting evidence.
4. Verify Your Income Sources
Review your bank statements for the past few months to identify any deposits that may have triggered the “alternative income” flag.
If there are any exceptional deposits (e.g., loan repayments, gifts), you can explain them in your appeal with supporting evidence.
5. Avoid e-Wallet Transactions
If you use e-wallets for receiving or sending money, try to avoid them while your SRD application is being processed.
These transactions could be misinterpreted as income.
6. Verify Your Information
Double-check all the information you provided in your application, including your ID number, contact details, and income information.
Ensure that everything is accurate and up-to-date.
If there are any errors or changes, update your information through the SASSA online portal or visit a SASSA office.
7. Explain Exceptional Deposits
If you received any unusual or one-time payments (e.g., gifts, loan repayments), provide an explanation and supporting documentation in your appeal.
This will help SASSA understand the nature of the deposit and assess your eligibility accordingly.
8. Consider Other Grants
If your appeal is unsuccessful and you have other sources of income, explore alternative social grants that you might be eligible for, such as the Child Support Grant or Disability Grant.
Important Notes:
- The monthly income threshold for the SRD grant can change, so check the latest requirements on the SASSA website.
- SASSA has the right to verify your information with other government agencies, such as the Department of Home Affairs and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
- Be honest and transparent in your application and appeal process. Providing false information can lead to disqualification and potential legal consequences.