Change SASSA Phone Number, Online, WhatsApp, and Without OTP

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) uses your registered cellphone number to send important updates about your grant — including payment notifications and status updates.

If you’ve changed your number recently or lost access to your old SIM card, it’s essential to update your SASSA phone number to continue receiving messages without delay. This guide explains how to change your SASSA cellphone number online, via WhatsApp, or without OTP verification.

Why You Must Keep Your SASSA Phone Number Updated

Your registered phone number connects you directly to SASSA. Every payment confirmation, SRD R350 status update, or reapplication alert is sent through SMS.

If your phone number is outdated or incorrect, you may miss grant notifications or payment confirmations. Keeping your contact details up to date ensures you always have access to accurate and timely information.

How to Change Your SASSA Phone Number

You can update your SASSA phone number in three main ways:

  1. Online through the SASSA SRD portal
  2. Via WhatsApp
  3. Without OTP (for lost or stolen SIM cards)

Let’s look at each option in detail.

1. Change Your SASSA Phone Number Online

The quickest and most convenient way to update your phone number is through the official SASSA SRD website.

Steps:

  1. Visit the SASSA SRD website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
  2. Enter your 13-digit South African ID number
  3. Input your 6-digit Application ID (App ID)
  4. Click Submit to verify your identity
  5. Select Change Phone Number
  6. Enter your new cellphone number
  7. You’ll receive an OTP (One Time Password) on your new number
  8. Enter the OTP code and click Verify Pin
  9. Confirm and click Submit
  10. Wait up to 14 days for SASSA to validate your new contact details

Tips:

  • Keep your ID and App ID ready for verification.
  • The update may take a few days to reflect in the system.
  • Avoid frequent number changes — this can delay future payments.

2. Change SASSA Phone Number via WhatsApp

You can also update your SASSA number on WhatsApp using the official line.

Steps:

  1. Save SASSA’s official WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553
  2. Send “Hi” or “SASSA” to start the chat
  3. Select the option to Update Contact Details
  4. Enter your ID number and new cellphone number
  5. Follow the prompts to verify your identity
  6. Once successful, you’ll receive a confirmation message from SASSA

Why use WhatsApp:

  • It’s fast and convenient.
  • You can chat with a SASSA agent directly if you need help.
  • No need to visit a branch.

3. Change SASSA Phone Number Without OTP

If you no longer have access to your old phone number, you can still change your contact details, but the process is manual.

Steps:

  1. Visit your nearest SASSA office in person
  2. Bring your South African ID and any documents linked to your SASSA application
  3. Explain that you’ve lost access to your old number and can’t receive OTPs
  4. Request a manual update of your phone number
  5. Wait for confirmation from the SASSA representative

Alternative option:
Call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11 and explain that you’re unable to access your old number. The agent will guide you through verification steps.

Important: When updating without OTP, SASSA may require additional verification such as your ID and personal details.

Report a Lost or Stolen SIM Card Linked to Your SASSA Account

If your SIM card or phone is stolen, report it immediately to prevent unauthorized access to your grant.

How to report it:

  1. Go to https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/auth
  2. Enter your ID number
  3. Confirm that your number was changed without permission
  4. You’ll receive confirmation that your report was submitted successfully

After that, proceed to the Change Phone Number process to register your new SIM card.

Common Reasons for Changing Your SASSA Phone Number

  • Incorrect number entered during application
  • Lost or stolen phone/SIM card
  • Switched to a new mobile provider
  • Changed contact details recently

Alternative Methods to Update Your SASSA Number

If you can’t use the website or WhatsApp, try any of these:

USSD Service:
Dial 1347737# from your new number and follow the prompts.

Call Center:
Call 0800 60 10 11 for help updating your number.

SASSA Office Visit:
Go to your nearest office with your ID document and proof of your new number (e.g., SIM registration document).

After Updating Your SASSA Phone Number

Once you’ve completed the update:

  • Wait 24–48 hours for the system to refresh your information.
  • Log in to your SASSA SRD profile to verify the change.
  • Ensure you start receiving SASSA SMS alerts on your new number.
  • Contact support if your new number isn’t reflected after a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I change my SASSA number if I lost my old SIM card?
Yes. Visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID, or call 0800 60 10 11 for help changing it manually without OTP.

How long does it take for SASSA to update my phone number?
Usually between 24–48 hours, but it can take up to 14 days depending on verification.

Will changing my number affect my SASSA SRD R350 application?
No. Updating your number does not affect your grant status or eligibility.

Can I change my phone number more than once?
Yes, but avoid frequent changes — multiple updates can delay payments or trigger verification reviews.

Do I need proof of ownership for my new number?
If you visit a SASSA branch, you may be asked to provide proof of ownership, such as a SIM registration document.

Changing your SASSA phone number is straightforward and can be done online, on WhatsApp, or in person without OTP. Keeping your number current ensures you never miss payment alerts, SRD R350 updates, or grant confirmations.

To stay updated on your SASSA status check or payment details, visit our main SASSA Status Check page for the latest information.