Many SRD grant applicants struggle to verify their identity because their personal details do not match the Department of Home Affairs database.
If you need to update your name on SASSA SRD, correct a spelling error, or change your surname with SASSA after marriage or divorce, this guide explains the full process.
Personal detail issues are among the most common reasons for the SRD grant being declined, delayed, or stuck at verification.
Why Updating Your Name and Surname Matters for the SRD Grant
SRD grants rely on strict identity verification to prevent fraud and ensure eligibility.
When your name, surname, or ID details do not match Home Affairs, SASSA cannot confirm your identity, causing delays or rejections.
Applicants frequently encounter errors such as:
• Name mismatch with Home Affairs
• Incorrect surname after marriage
• Typo or spelling mistake during application
• Dual surnames not captured correctly
These details create a SASSA verification issue that must be corrected before payment can continue. Beneficiaries often search terms like “SASSA SRD name correction” or “how to change SASSA name” after getting a declined status for “identity mismatch.”
How to Update Your Name and Surname for the SASSA SRD Grant
Fixing personal details is possible, but requires updated records from Home Affairs first. If Home Affairs still reflects your old surname or outdated name, SASSA will not update your SRD details.
Follow this step-by-step process:
Step 1: Update Details with Home Affairs
If you recently changed surnames due to marriage, divorce, or citizenship updates, visit Home Affairs to finalize the change. Without this confirmation, SASSA cannot complete the identity update.
Step 2: Log into Your SRD Grant Profile
Go to the official SRD website and enter your ID and mobile number. In your profile dashboard, look for the SASSA personal details update or “Edit Application” option.
Step 3: Correct Your Name and Surname
Update the name fields exactly as they appear in the Home Affairs system. Even minor variations like spacing or hyphens can trigger mismatch errors.
Step 4: Submit for Reverification
Once corrected, the system may send your application for another verification cycle. It may take several days for Home Affairs and SASSA verification to sync.
Common Problems When Updating SASSA Personal Details
Changing your surname or correcting errors can sometimes result in additional issues. Here are the most common troubleshooting scenarios:
Identity Verification Still Pending
This occurs when Home Affairs takes time to update or when the SASSA system queues verification checks.
Declined for Identity Mismatch Again
If the surname or name spelling does not exactly match, re-edit the application. Double surnames or cultural surname structures often cause rejections.
SASSA Profile Correction Fails
Technical issues may prevent updates. Try logging in with a different browser or device.
Documents Not Required
SASSA does not normally require marriage certificates, divorce papers, or legal name change documents at the SRD level, as verification happens through Home Affairs.
However, traditional grant beneficiaries may need physical proof at offices.
When to Contact SASSA for Help
If you repeatedly fail verification or cannot update your SRD application, SASSA assistance may be required. Contact SASSA if:
• The verification cycle takes longer than 7 business days
• The website fails to accept updated details
• Name mismatch persists after updating with Home Affairs
• Your application is declined for identity reasons multiple times
SASSA may escalate the case or direct you to update through a regional office depending on the grant type.
Conclusion
Updating your name or surname for the SASSA SRD grant is essential for smooth verification and on-time payments.
By ensuring that Home Affairs records match your SRD profile and following the correction process, you can resolve identity mismatches and avoid future grant delays.
Always update Home Affairs first before editing your SRD application details.
Share this guide with other SRD applicants struggling with identity mismatch issues or surname changes. Thousands face declined grants simply because of spelling errors or outdated information.
FAQs
Can I change my surname on SASSA SRD after marriage?
Yes. Update your surname at Home Affairs first, then correct your SRD profile.
How long does name correction verification take?
Typically 2–7 days depending on Home Affairs data sync and SASSA verification cycles.
Why was my SRD application declined for identity mismatch?
Because your name, surname, or ID details do not match Home Affairs records.
Can I fix spelling errors in my application?
Yes, log into your SRD profile and update your personal details to reflect accurate spelling.
Do I need to visit a SASSA office for SRD name updates?
Most SRD updates can be completed online. Traditional grant beneficiaries may need in-person updates.