“My application for a grant was turned down. But I am sure that I do qualify for a grant.’”

If the application is rejected, you should get a letter from SASSA giving reasons why you were turned down. You must first use the internal SASSA appeal mechanism which means you must submit a written ‘Application for Reconsideration’ to SASSA.

If SASSA does not change its decision, you must submit your appeal to the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals. You must send them the following documents:

• Proof of your application
• Previous or current medical reports (if it is a disability grant application)
• Proof of your income and assets
• The SASSA rejection letter.

If this fails a letter of appeal can be written to the Minister of Social Development explaining why you do not agree with the decision. This appeal must be sent (lodged) within 90 days of receiving the letter of rejection.

The letter must explain when and where your application was turned down, why it was turned down, and why you don’t agree with the decision. In other words, you must give reasons why you think you qualify for a grant. You must state that this is your appeal. Other requirements include:

• The appeal must be in writing
• The appeal must be sent to the Minister of Social Development
• The appeal must be sent within 90 days of receiving the letter of rejection (notification); if the time limit has passed, you will have to reapply for a grant, and then when it is turned down, you can appeal within 90 days. (See Stage 3: Appeals Process)