Why Does SASSA Say “Means Income Source Identified Undefined”?
Why Does SASSA Say Means Income Source Identified Undefined? If you’re one of the many South Africans applying for the SASSA SRD Grant, you might come across a confusing status update: “Means Income Source Identified Undefined.” This message can be alarming, especially if you’re relying on the R370 monthly grant for survival. But don’t worry — this article will help you understand what this message means, why it appears, and how to fix it.
What Does “Means Income Source Identified Undefined” Mean?
When SASSA shows this status on your SRD application, it means your income source is unclear, unverified, or not properly defined in their system. There are two possible interpretations of this message:
- You didn’t provide sufficient or accurate details about your income during the application process.
- SASSA could not verify your income using its linked government databases and bank information.
In short, SASSA is unable to determine how you are earning money, or whether you are earning anything at all.
Why Is SASSA Asking About My Income Source?
To ensure fairness and transparency, SASSA applies a “means test” to every applicant. This test helps the agency determine who is financially eligible for the SASSA SRD Grant.
The means test is used to confirm that the applicant:
- Is genuinely unemployed or has no significant source of income.
- Is not receiving other forms of government assistance.
- Falls below a specific monthly income threshold.
Through this verification, SASSA ensures that the R370 monthly SRD Grant goes only to deserving, vulnerable citizens.
What Is the SRD Grant’s Income Requirement?
To qualify for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, applicants must meet several income-related conditions. These are strictly monitored by SASSA.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Maximum Monthly Income | Must not exceed R624 per month. |
| No Formal Employment | You should not receive a regular salary from a formal job. |
| No Other SASSA Grants | You must not be receiving old age, disability, or child support grants. |
| No UIF Payments | You must not be benefiting from the Unemployment Insurance Fund. |
| No Large Bank Deposits | Any deposit exceeding R624/month can disqualify you. |
| No Regular Financial Support from Others | Consistent deposits from family or friends may count against your application. |
These rules help SASSA determine who truly needs financial aid through the SRD grant.
How SASSA Verifies Your Income
To ensure compliance with the income requirement, SASSA uses several verification methods to cross-check your financial background.
1. Bank Account Verification
SASSA checks your bank statements in partnership with South African banks to track:
- Monthly deposits in your account.
- Frequency and size of incoming funds.
- Whether the funds appear as salary or personal support.
If deposits exceed R624 per month, your application could be declined.
2. Government Database Cross-Checks
SASSA uses multiple government systems to confirm your financial status:
- SASSA Database: Checks if you receive other social grants.
- UIF Database: Verifies if you’re registered and receiving Unemployment Insurance.
- SARS Records: Identifies if you’re formally employed or paying taxes.
3. Employment Status Checks
SASSA verifies your job status by contacting:
- Department of Employment and Labour
- Employer or Business Registration Databases
If you’re earning a salary, your SRD application will be declined.
4. Identity and Citizenship Verification
Through the Department of Home Affairs, SASSA ensures that applicants are:
- South African citizens, refugees, or permanent residents.
- Not receiving financial aid from another country.
5. Monthly Reassessment
Your financial status is reassessed monthly. If your situation improves (e.g., income exceeds R624), SASSA may suspend or cancel your SRD grant.
Common Reasons for the “Means Income Source Identified Undefined” Error
Let’s break down the most common causes of this status error:
| Cause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Missing or Incomplete Income Information | You may have forgotten to declare your income source or provided incorrect details. |
| Mismatch with Government Records | Your income data doesn’t match what’s recorded in SASSA, UIF, or SARS databases. |
| Failed Verification | Your identity or bank details couldn’t be verified. |
| Third-Party Support Not Declared | Regular support from family/friends wasn’t disclosed but was picked up via bank checks. |
How to Fix the “Means Income Source Identified Undefined” Status
If you see this error on the SASSA status check portal, here’s how you can resolve it:
1. Update Your Personal and Income Information
Log into the SASSA SRD portal and make sure your income source is clearly defined. Provide all requested details such as:
- Type of income (e.g., freelance, informal job, or no income)
- Bank account information
- Employer (if any)
2. Re-verify Your Identity via OTP
Visit the SASSA portal and choose the verify identity option. You may be asked to enter a One-Time Pin (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number.
3. Contact SASSA Support
If updating your details doesn’t work, reach out to SASSA via:
- Toll-Free Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit your nearest SASSA office
They can manually investigate and assist with the issue.
What If SASSA Declines My Application Due to Income?
If SASSA believes you are earning more than R624/month, your grant will be rejected. But if this is an error, you can submit an appeal.
- Visit the SRD Appeal Website
- Enter your ID and phone number.
- Choose the reason for the appeal.
- Upload supporting documents, such as:
- Bank statements
- Proof of unemployment
- Letters confirming informal work status
SASSA will review and notify you of their final decision.
Tips to Avoid the “Means Income Source Identified Undefined” Status
- Always provide complete and truthful financial information.
- Keep your bank account in your own name.
- Avoid regular large deposits from others unless you can explain them.
- Recheck your details regularly on the SASSA portal.
- Appeal if you believe your application was unfairly declined.
Conclusion
The Means Income Source Identified Undefined status is a common issue for SRD grant applicants, but it’s fixable. It simply means SASSA could not confirm your income source or there was a mismatch in the data you provided.
