How to Fix SASSA SRD R370 “Invalid” Phone Number Error?

Is your phone number showing as “invalid” when updating your SASSA SRD application? That error can block your grant updates, delay payments, or prevent verification.

It’s frustrating especially when you’ve entered everything correctly. Let’s break down what causes this in 2025 and how to fix it in minutes.

Why Does SASSA Say My Phone Number Is Invalid?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) uses a strict system to match your mobile number with your identity.

Even a small mistake can stop it from accepting your details. Below are the most common causes of this issue in 2025.

1. Incorrect Number Format

SASSA only accepts numbers in a local mobile format. That means:

The number must begin with a 0
It must have 10 digits total (e.g. 0601234567)
Don’t include spaces, plus signs, or country codes

Wrong: +27601234567
Correct: 0601234567

2. Typing Errors or Digits in Wrong Order

If even one digit is off, SASSA’s system won’t recognise it. Mistakes like:

Entering nine digits instead of ten
Switching two numbers
Copy-paste errors from apps or screenshots
can cause the “invalid” message.

Always double-check your input before submitting.

3. Using a Landline Instead of a Mobile Number

SASSA’s systems do not support landline numbers. If you try to register a landline, the system will immediately reject it. You must use a RICA-registered mobile number in your own name to receive SMS verifications and OTPs.

4. Browser Not Compatible with SASSA Website

Using an outdated or unsupported browser may lead to technical issues on srd.sassa.gov.za, especially during phone number updates. Older browsers might block essential scripts or fail to load verification features.

Make sure you use:

Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox
Microsoft Edge (latest version)

Avoid using Opera Mini or in-app browsers from apps like Facebook or Twitter.

5. Cached Data Conflicts

Sometimes, your browser saves old site data called cache or cookies. This can stop updated forms or input fields from working properly on the SASSA website.

If your phone number seems correct but still shows as invalid, your browser could be pulling outdated site files.

How to Fix “Invalid” Phone Number Error? (Step-by-Step)

You can often resolve the error in under 10 minutes by following the steps below:

Step 1: Confirm Number Format and Accuracy

Make sure your number starts with 0
Count the digits, must be 10 numbers
Remove any symbols or spaces
Type the number manually to avoid copy-paste mistakes

Example: 0723456789 is correct

Step 2: Use a Supported Browser

Switch to a modern, fully updated browser like:

Chrome
Firefox
Edge

Update your browser to the latest version for full support of SASSA’s platform features.

Step 3: Clear Your Browser’s Cache and Cookies

Old data might interfere with the form submission.

To clear cache:

Open your browser settings
Go to Privacy or History
Choose Clear browsing data
Select Cookies and Cached files
Restart the browser

Then go back to srd.sassa.gov.za and try again.

Step 4: Restart Your Device

A simple restart can clear temporary system errors. This refreshes your browser, closes background tasks, and resets your connection. It may fix unseen issues blocking the site’s phone number field from working.

Step 5: Avoid Public Wi-Fi or Unstable Internet

Unsecured or unstable internet connections can interrupt your submission.

Use:

A private home network
Mobile data with strong signal
Avoid Wi-Fi in public areas like taxis, malls, or schools

This helps keep your session stable while submitting your update.

Additional Tips for Success

Make sure your mobile number is RICA-registered and in your name.
Use the same number you entered when applying for the SRD R370 grant.
If you’ve lost your old number, update it through the official SASSA SRD website only.
Do not use someone else’s number. It will not match your ID, causing more delays.

When to Contact SASSA for Help?

If you’ve tried all the steps and still see the same error:

Call the SASSA Call Centre at 0800 60 10 11
Visit your nearest SASSA office
Or try again later during off-peak hours

Sometimes the issue is on the back-end, and SASSA technicians may need to refresh your profile manually.

Final Words

The “invalid phone number” error is usually caused by small input mistakes or technical issues. With the correct number format, a supported browser, and a cleared cache, you can often fix it without needing help.

Make sure the number is yours, correctly typed, and active. That’s the key to keeping your SASSA SRD grant information up to date