What is the “Self Exclusionary Response Found” Status?
The “Self Exclusionary Response Found” status simply means that based on the information you provided in your SASSA application, the system thinks you are not eligible for the grant. This could be because you answered “Yes” to questions indicating that you have a monthly income above R350 or that you are staying in a government facility.
The SASSA SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grant of R350 is meant for people who are unemployed, have no other source of income, and are in dire need of financial assistance. So, if your application suggests that you already have an income, SASSA assumes you are not eligible for the grant.
Why Did I Get “Self Exclusionary Response Found” Status?
There are a few possible reasons why you received the “Self Exclusionary Response Found” status:
1. You answered “Yes” to the wrong questions:
The status is triggered if you answered “Yes” to questions like “Are you working?” or “Are you earning more than R350 per month?”. This makes SASSA think you already have a source of income that disqualifies you from the grant.
2. You made a mistake while filling out the form:
Sometimes, people accidentally select the wrong option while filling out the application form, leading to this status.
3. Your information is incorrect or outdated:
If the information in your application is incorrect or outdated, it may show that you have an income when you actually don’t.
Don’t Worry, It’s Fixable!
If you received this status due to an error or mistake, don’t stress. You can appeal the decision and get your grant approved if you follow the right steps.
How to Avoid the “Self Exclusionary Response Found” Status?
To avoid getting this status in the first place, it’s important to read the SASSA Declaration and Consent form carefully. Only apply for the grant if you meet all the eligibility criteria, which include:
Being a South African citizen or permanent resident
Being unemployed and not receiving any other form of government assistance
Having no other source of income or earning less than R350 per month
When filling out the application form, make sure to answer “No” to questions about having a job or earning more than R350 per month if that’s the case.
Never try to submit false information or lie on the application form. If SASSA finds out, they can reject your grant, prevent you from receiving any future government assistance, and even take legal action against you for fraud.
How to Fix the “Self Exclusionary Response Found” Status?
If you believe you received this status due to a mistake or incorrect information, here’s how you can fix it:
Step 1: Change Your Application Answers
Log in to the SASSA Services Portal and modify your application answers. Change any “Yes” responses to “No” regarding questions about employment or income.
Step 2: Lodge an Appeal with SASSA
After correcting your application, you’ll need to lodge an appeal with SASSA to reconsider your case. Follow these steps:
Click on “Click here to lodge an appeal or check appeal status”
Enter your 13-digit South African ID number and registered phone number to request an OTP (One-Time PIN)
Enter the OTP you received via SMS on the website
Select the month for which your grant was rejected
Attach supporting documents like bank statements for the last six months, proof of residence, and your ID
Provide a clear and concise reason for your appeal, such as “I mistakenly answered ‘Yes’ to the employment questions”
Submit the appeal form
Step 3: Wait for ITSAA’s Decision
Your appeal will now be reviewed by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA), which handles all SASSA appeals. This process can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days.
During this time, ITSAA will review your case and supporting documents. If they find that you meet the eligibility criteria for the SRD grant, they will overturn SASSA’s decision, and you will start receiving your grant payments.
If your appeal is rejected, ITSAA will notify you in writing, explaining why they believe you are not eligible for the grant.
Stay Patient and Track Your Appeal Status
While waiting for ITSAA’s decision, be patient and keep checking your application status regularly. You will also receive updates via SMS on your registered mobile number.
If your appeal is successful, you’ll start receiving your SASSA grant payments. If it’s rejected, you can reapply or seek further assistance if you still believe you are eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly does “Self Exclusionary Response Found” mean on my SASSA application?
A: It means that based on the information you provided, SASSA believes you already have a source of income or are receiving government support, which makes you ineligible for the SRD grant.
Q: How can I avoid getting the “Self Exclusionary” status?
A: Read the eligibility criteria carefully and only apply if you are unemployed, have no income above R350 per month, and are not receiving any other government assistance. Answer all questions truthfully and accurately.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally answered “Yes” to the employment or income questions?
Don’t worry. Log in to the SASSA portal, change your answers to “No”, and then lodge an appeal with supporting documents to have your case reconsidered.
Q: What happens after I submit my appeal to SASSA?
Your appeal will be reviewed by the Independent Tribunal for Social Assistance Appeals (ITSAA), which can take 60 to 90 days. They will notify you of their decision via SMS and in writing.
Remember, honesty is the best policy when applying for government assistance. Follow the guidelines, provide accurate information, and don’t hesitate to appeal if you believe there was a mistake. With patience and perseverance, you can get the support you need from SASSA.
I’m Anele Zulu, a South African social worker dedicated to serving my country’s most vulnerable. With my degree and field expertise, I empower underprivileged communities through compassionate support and tireless advocacy on this website. My goal is simplifying access to services so families can uplift themselves
