Why Your SASSA Status Shows “Income Source Identified Undefined”

If your SASSA or SRD status shows “Income Source Identified Undefined”, you’re not alone.

This status has been appearing for many applicants during SASSA’s banking and income verification process.

It’s linked to the means test and financial data checks used to confirm eligibility for SRD and other social grants.

What “Income Source Identified Undefined” Means for SASSA Applicants

When SASSA conducts income verification, it compares your details with financial databases and banking records.

If their systems detect a record of income but cannot categorize it, the status becomes “Income Source Identified Undefined.”

This typically means:

• An income record was found but has no defined type
• The source doesn’t clearly match salary, pension, savings interest, or another category
• Data from a financial institution triggered a means test flag
• The information lacks clarity for automated classification
This can occur even when the applicant has no active income, because the system may interpret old deposits, one-time transfers, family assistance, business transactions, or shared bank accounts as possible income.

Why SASSA Flags Undefined Income Sources (Top Causes)

The status usually appears due to:

  1. Banking Records Not Matching Application Details
    For example, using a bank account belonging to a parent or partner.
  2. Third-Party Verification Issues
    SASSA uses external databases to cross-check financial activity.
  3. Means Test Sensitivity
    The SRD grant especially has a strict income limit.
  4. Unlabeled Deposits or Cash Transfers
    EFT transfers from family or friends may appear as income.
  5. Financial Trails From Old Employment or Freelance Work
    Past payments can still trigger verification.
    Secondary keywords covered: SASSA verification error, SRD status problem, SASSA means test issue

How to Fix “Income Source Identified Undefined”

You can take several steps to resolve this status:
Check your bank account for unexplained deposits
Use a bank account in your own name (SASSA rejects shared accounts)
Correct or update banking details on the SASSA portal
Submit financial clarification documentation if requested
Avoid using accounts with business or family transactions
If you believe the status is incorrect, you can appeal it. SRD beneficiaries can lodge appeals with the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA) within 90 days of the decision.

Does This Status Mean Your SRD Grant Will Be Declined?

Not always. It means SASSA needs more clarity before approving or declining. If the flagged amount exceeds the SRD means test (currently R624), it may lead to a decline.

If the amount is lower or explained, approval is still possible after verification.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve?

Processing varies depending on:
• Banking verification delays
• Financial institution response times
Appeal submissions and supporting documents
Most cases resolve within several weeks, but delays can happen during high-volume months.

FAQs

Why does my SRD status say “Income Source Identified Undefined”?

Because SASSA detected income during verification but cannot classify the source.

Does this mean I earned income?

Not necessarily. Transfers and shared accounts can trigger false positives.

How do I fix this?

Update banking details, use an account in your name, or submit an appeal if the status is incorrect.

Can I appeal this decision?

Yes, SRD appeals can be submitted via the Independent Tribunal.

Can family deposits cause this?

Yes, unpaid support deposits and once-off transfers often trigger undefined income flags.

Conclusion

The “Income Source Identified Undefined” status is mainly caused by unclear banking activity and means test verification issues.

By reviewing your financial details and correcting mismatches, you can improve your chances of approval. If the status persists, lodging an appeal or updating information may resolve the issue.

For more SASSA and SRD status explanations, guides, and application tips, continue exploring our latest resources and updates.