Checking your SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) grant balance allows you to monitor your available funds and transactions. Many SASSA beneficiaries want to check their balance without using airtime on their mobile phone.
Fortunately, there is a free method to check your SASSA balance using USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) without requiring any airtime. But beware of fake balance checks like *130*.
What is USSD?
USSD is a protocol mobile networks use to communicate directly with service providers. USSD utilizes the mobile carrier’s servers to retrieve information in real time.
When a user enters a USSD string like *120*3210#, it initiates a USSD session. The request is transmitted instantly to the linked service. In this case, entering the SASSA USSD code connects you to the SASSA servers via the mobile carrier. The SASSA balance and account information is then displayed on the mobile phone.
As USSD does not utilize mobile data or require an internet connection, checking your SASSA grant balance using USSD is entirely free of charge. There is also no waiting time or delays with real-time balance retrieval in seconds.
Benefits of Using USSD to Check SASSA Balance
Utilizing the SASSA USSD service to check your balance offers several benefits:
- It is free – No airtime or data is deducted when using USSD to check your SASSA balance. This helps you save money, especially when you must regularly monitor your balance.
- Works offline – USSD does not require an internet connection. You can check your balance without mobile data if you have network coverage.
- Fast and convenient – USSD provides real-time balance information instantly on your mobile screen. You don’t need to wait for pages to load.
- Secure – USSD sessions are encrypted for security purposes. Your personal and financial information remains protected when your balance is checked via USSD.
- User-friendly – Following the USSD prompts to check your balance is very straightforward. USSD works on both basic feature phones and smartphones.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check SASSA Balance via USSD
To use the free USSD service to check your SASSA grant balance, follow these steps:
1. Dial the SASSA USSD Code
To check the balance of your grant, call the USSD code that SASSA has supplied on your mobile device:
1203210#
SASSA allocates this USSD string to retrieve and display your SASSA balance information.
2. Initiate the USSD Session
Once you have dialed the code, initiate the USSD session by pressing the green call button on your mobile phone. This will connect you directly to the SASSA servers via the mobile network.
3. Follow Balance Check Prompts
After pressing the call, your mobile screen will display prompts to enter details and check the balance. Follow the instructions and enter any required information, such as the SASSA card or ID number.
The exact prompts may vary depending on your mobile network and the SASSA USSD service. Follow the directions as displayed on your mobile screen.
4. View Your SASSA Balance
Once you have entered the required information and followed the prompts, your current SASSA grant balance will be displayed on the mobile screen.
The balance indicates the funds available in your SASSA account for withdrawal or use. Your recent transactions may also be displayed to monitor account activity.
5. End the USSD Session
Once you have checked your SASSA balance successfully, end the USSD session by pressing the red call end button on your mobile phone. This will terminate the connection to the SASSA servers. Your airtime or data will remain intact.
Check Balance Regularly via USSD
Now, you can conveniently check your SASSA grant balance directly from your mobile phone without using any airtime. This USSD method provides an affordable and efficient way to monitor your balance regularly.
Be sure to check your SASSA balance at least once a month or whenever you need to confirm your available funds and account status. This helps ensure you can utilize the total amount in your grant and avoid any shortfalls.
Monitoring your balance also protects you against fraudulent activity and ensures the funds are available when you need to withdraw cash or make purchases. Stay on top of your SASSA grant funds using the easy USSD method whenever required.
Troubleshooting USSD Balance Checks
You may encounter errors or issues when checking your SASSA balance via USSD. Here is how to troubleshoot some common problems:
- Wrong USSD code – Ensure you dial the correct USSD code allocated by SASSA for balance checks. Double-check the code and retry.
- Verification failed – If prompted for verification like ID number and there is an error, re-enter the correct details carefully. Contact SASSA if the issue persists.
- Session timeout – If inactive, USSD sessions will automatically time out after a few minutes. Redial the USSD code and complete the process quickly.
- Low network signal – Weak mobile network signals may disrupt the USSD session. Move to an area with stronger reception.
- Incorrect details – When prompted to avoid errors, provide accurate card numbers, ID numbers, or other info.
- Account limits – Certain accounts may have limits on balance checks. Contact SASSA if you consistently face issues.
- USSD service down – Network issues may cause downtime. Try again later or confirm the USSD service status with your provider.
Get Help from SASSA
If you continue having problems using the SASSA USSD service to check your balance, contact SASSA directly for assistance:
- Call the SASSA contact center toll-free at 0800 60 10 11
- Visit your nearest SASSA office for in-person support
- Log in to the SASSA self-service portal and submit an inquiry
The dedicated SASSA USSD service offers the fastest, most affordable option to securely check your SASSA grant balance on your phone. Following the prompts to enter your card and ID details initiates real-time balance retrieval without utilizing any airtime whatsoever.
Use this free USSD method by regularly checking your available SASSA funds. Quick balance confirmation provides peace of mind and helps beneficiaries responsibly manage grant income.