The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) is warning of a scam that has targeted unemployed South Africans in recent days.
The scam is called – How to Apply for the Unemployment Grant – is circulating on social media.
“Please ignore this incorrect information circulating on social media, it does not come from Sassa,” Sassa said on its Twitter page.
“We are currently finalizing systems for the R350 grants and will publicize the procedure and criteria soon. Also note that the Sassa offices are closed during the lockdown period.”
Please ignore this incorrect information circulating on social media, it does not come from SASSA. We are currently finalizing systems for the new R350 grant and will publicize the procedure and criteria soon. Also note that SASSA offices are closed during the lockdown period pic.twitter.com/BzsrM6iuLX
— SASSA (@OfficialSASSA) April 24, 2020
The scam is enticing South Africans to apply for the COVID-19 special grants announced this week by President Cyril Ramaphosa. For more read: SA’s Unemployed to Receive R2, 100 Each in COVID-19 Special Grants
Unemployed South Africans should also be aware of a WhatsApp scam.
Please wait for Minister’s announcement early next week for details we haven’t announced any number as yet patience fellow SAns https://t.co/yYI6KVLU43
— SASSA (@OfficialSASSA) April 25, 2020
To curb the spread of COVID-19, the country imposed a 21-day lockdown that has since been extended by two weeks to the end of April. However, on Thursday President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a five-level plan to ease lockdowns and a R500 billion stimulus package.
The stimulus plan included special grants as part of a temporary 6-month Coronavirus grant.
Within six months, unemployed South Africans would receive R2,100 each.
The special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress grant of R350 a month for the next 6 months will be paid to individuals who are currently unemployed and do not receive any other form of a social grant or UIF payment.
The Department of Social Development will issue the requirements needed to access and apply for this funding.
“We are busy finalizing the system for the new R350 grant and will publicize the procedure and criteria soon,” said Sassa on its Twitter page.
Also read: Coronavirus: This is How Sassa Plans to Pay COVID-19 Special Grants of R350
Please let us know how because our people are fighting all over for the information
— Going home Black (@GoinghomeBlack1) April 24, 2020
