How to Fix SASSA SRD “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error?

Did SASSA reject your SRD grant application because of an “Alternative Income Source Identified” error?

This can stop your R370 monthly payment, even if you’re struggling financially. Don’t stress! This guide shows you simple steps to fix this error in 2025 and get your grant approved.

How to Fix SASSA SRD R370 “Alternative Income Source Identified” Error? (Quick Summary)

Fix the SASSA SRD “Alternative_Income_Source” error, visit srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/reconsideration, lodge a reconsideration request within 30 days, and submit bank statements showing deposits below R624. If denied, appeal at srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/appeal. Report fraud to SASSA (0800 60 10 11) if money isn’t yours.

Why Does the “Alternative Income Source” Error Happen?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) checks your bank accounts and e-wallets when you apply for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.

If they find total deposits over R624 in a month, they assume you have other income and reject your application. This R624 limit applies to all money coming into accounts linked to your ID, except SASSA payments.

This error can pop up for a few reasons:

Money from others: Deposits from a partner or family into a shared account count as your income.
Side jobs: Cash from part-time work or small gigs adds up and may go over the limit.
E-wallet transfers: Small payments to mobile apps like MTN MoMo or FNB eWallet can push you over R624.

Sometimes, SASSA gets it wrong, flagging money that isn’t really yours. Here’s how to fix it and prove you qualify for the grant.

How to Fix SASSA SRD “Alternative_Income_Source Identified” Error? Steps

You can clear the “Alternative Income Source Identified” error by showing SASSA you don’t have extra income. Follow these clear steps using official SASSA processes.

1. Submit a Reconsideration Request

Tell SASSA to review your application again if the error is a mistake. Here’s what to do:

Visit the SASSA SRD reconsideration portal at srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/reconsideration.
Select “Application for Reconsideration.”
Enter your South African ID number and the phone number used for your SRD application.
Fill out the form with clear, honest details. Explain why the income isn’t yours.
Submit your request and wait for SASSA’s response.

Act fast, lodge this request within 30 days of seeing the error. If the error shows up again next month, repeat the process. SASSA’s 2024 data shows 70% of reconsideration requests with proper proof get approved.

2. Collect Proof of Your Finances

Show SASSA you’re under the R624 monthly limit with strong evidence. Gather these documents:

Bank statements: Get statements from your bank showing all deposits for the past month. Highlight that total deposits are below R624.
E-wallet records: If you use apps like MTN MoMo or FNB eWallet, download transaction histories to prove low income.
Affidavit: Write a sworn statement at a SAPS station, explaining the deposits (e.g., money from a family member, not income). Include your name, ID, and contact details.

Ensure all documents match your SRD application details. Upload them on the SASSA reconsideration portal or take them to a SASSA office.

3. File an Appeal if Needed

If SASSA rejects your reconsideration, don’t stop there. File an appeal to push your case:

Go to the SASSA Appeals Portal at srd.sassa.gov.za/appeals/appeal.
Submit your appeal within 30 days of the reconsideration decision.
Attach your bank statements, e-wallet records, and affidavit. Add any new proof to make your case stronger.

Appeals take a few weeks, but they work. In 2024, SASSA approved 22% of SRD appeals after initial rejections, per their annual report.

4. Report Suspected Fraud

If someone else’s deposits (like a partner’s) or fraudulent activity caused the error, act quickly:

Contact SASSA’s fraud hotline at 0800 60 10 11 or visit a SASSA office.
File a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and get an affidavit to show the money isn’t yours.
Wait for SASSA to investigate. Fraud cases may take months but can clear your record.

SAPS reported 10,000 grant-related fraud cases in 2024, so report issues promptly to protect your eligibility.

Tips to Prevent Future Errors

Keep your SRD application error-free with these steps:

Use your own accounts: Only link bank accounts or e-wallets in your name to your SRD application. Avoid shared accounts.
Update your details: Tell SASSA if your bank or phone number changes. Use srd.sassa.gov.za to update.
Check your status: Monitor your SRD application monthly on the SASSA portal to catch errors early.

Why This Matters?

The SRD grant pays R370 monthly to South Africans in financial need. An “Alternative Income Source Identified” error can block this vital support. Fixing it ensures you get the help you deserve. In 2024, SASSA paid R23 billion in SRD grants, supporting millions. Don’t let an error keep you from this aid.

Extra Help if Problems Continue

If your appeal fails, try these options:

Visit a SASSA office to speak with an officer in person. Bring all your documents.
Get free legal help from organisations like ProBono South Africa (contact them at www.probono.org.za). They can guide you through complex appeals.

Take Action Now

The “Alternative Income Source Identified” error is annoying but fixable. Lodge a reconsideration request, provide clear bank statements, and appeal if needed.

If fraud’s involved, report it to SASSA and SAPS. Use official SASSA channels to clear your name and secure your SRD grant in 2025. Start today to get your R370 back!