SASSA Status via USSD — Step-by-Step

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes provide one of the most accessible ways to check your SASSA grant status, especially for South Africans with basic phones or limited internet access. USSD works on any mobile phone, requires no internet connection, and provides instant access to your grant information. This comprehensive 2026 guide walks you through using USSD codes to check your SASSA status step by step.

What is USSD?

Understanding USSD Technology

USSD is a communication protocol used by mobile networks to send text messages between your phone and service providers. Unlike SMS or internet-based services, USSD:

• Works on Any Phone: Basic phones, smartphones, all mobile devices
• No Internet Required: Uses mobile network, not data
• Instant: Immediate responses
• Free or Low Cost: Usually free, sometimes minimal network charges
• Simple: Just dial a code and follow prompts

Why Use USSD for SASSA?

Advantages:

• Works without internet or data
• Available on all mobile phones
• Quick and straightforward
• No app installation needed
• Works in areas with poor internet
• Free or very low cost

Ideal For:

• Basic phones without internet
• Areas with poor connectivity
• Quick status checks
• When data is limited
• Emergency status checks

SASSA USSD Codes

Primary USSD Code

For SRD R350 Grant:

• Code: 1347737#
• Network: Works on all major networks
• Cost: Free (standard network rates may apply)
• Availability: 24/7

Alternative USSD Codes

For Other Grants:

• Code: 12069277#
• Alternative: 1203210#
• Use: For grants other than R350 SRD
• Network: May vary by network provider

Network-Specific Codes

Some networks may use:

• Vodacom: 1347737#
• MTN: 1347737# or 12069277#
• Cell C: 1347737#
• Telkom: 1347737#

Note: If one code doesn't work, try the alternative codes listed above.

Step-by-Step USSD Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Information

Before Dialing, Have Ready:

• Your South African ID number (13 digits)
• Your registered cellphone number
• Your application reference number (if available)
• Pen and paper to note information

Important: You must use the phone number registered with your SASSA application.

Step 2: Dial the USSD Code

For R350 SRD Grant:

1. Open your phone's dialer/keypad
2. Type: 1347737#
3. Ensure no spaces in the code
4. Press the call/send button
5. Wait for menu to appear on screen

Code Breakdown:

• • = Start of USSD code
• 134 = SASSA service code
• • = Separator
• 7737 = SRD grant code

• = End of USSD code

Step 3: Navigate the Menu

Menu Options Typically Include:

1. Check Status - View application status
2. Payment Information - Check payment dates
3. Update Information - Change details
4. General Information - Grant info
5. Help - Assistance options

How to Navigate:

• Use number keys to select options (e.g., press "1" for Check Status)
• Follow on-screen prompts
• Enter information when requested
• Use * to go back (if available)
• Use # to confirm or proceed

Step 4: Enter Your ID Number

When Prompted:

1. Enter your 13-digit South African ID number
2. Type carefully, no spaces or dashes
3. Double-check each digit
4. Press # or OK to confirm
5. Wait for next prompt

ID Number Format:

• 13 digits total
• Format: YYMMDDGSSSCAZ
• Example: 9001015801085
• No spaces, dashes, or special characters

Step 5: Enter Your Phone Number

When Prompted:

1. Enter your registered cellphone number
2. Include area code if required
3. Usually 10 digits (e.g., 0821234567)
4. Press # or OK to confirm
5. Wait for status information

Important: Must be the phone number you used when applying for the grant.

Step 6: View Your Status

Information Displayed:

• Current application status
• Approval or decline status
• Payment information (if applicable)
• Next steps or actions required
• Reference numbers

What Statuses Mean:

• Approved: Application successful, payments scheduled
• Pending: Application under review
• Declined: Application unsuccessful
• Bank Details Pending: Approved but banking info needed

Step 7: Note Important Information

What to Record:

• Your current status
• Payment dates (if provided)
• Reference numbers
• Any action required
• Next steps mentioned

How to Record:

• Write down information immediately
• Take photo of screen if possible
• Save for future reference
• Share with family if needed

Detailed Menu Navigation

Option 1: Check Application Status

Steps:

1. Dial 1347737#
2. Select "1" or "Check Status"
3. Enter your ID number
4. Enter your registered phone number
5. View status information
6. Note any action required

Information Provided:

• Application status
• Approval/decline information
• Pending status details
• Next steps

Option 2: Payment Information

Steps:

1. Dial 1347737#
2. Select "2" or "Payment"
3. Enter your ID number
4. Enter your registered phone number
5. View payment information

Information Provided:

• Next payment date
• Payment amount
• Payment status
• Payment method

Option 3: Update Information

Steps:

1. Dial 1347737#
2. Select "3" or "Update"
3. Choose what to update
4. Enter new information
5. Confirm changes

What Can Be Updated:

• Banking details
• Contact information
• Address (limited)
• Other basic information

Troubleshooting USSD Issues

Problem 1: Code Doesn't Dial

Symptoms:

• Code doesn't connect
• "Invalid code" message
• Nothing happens when dialing

Solutions:

• Verify code is correct: 1347737#
• Ensure no spaces in code
• Check you're using registered phone number
• Try alternative code: 12069277#
• Contact your network provider
• Ensure phone has network signal

Problem 2: Menu Doesn't Appear

Symptoms:

• Code dials but no menu
• Blank screen
• Connection timeout

Solutions:

• Wait 10-15 seconds for menu
• Ensure good network signal
• Move to area with better reception
• Try again from different location
• Restart phone and try again
• Contact network provider if persistent

Problem 3: "Service Unavailable" Error

Symptoms:

• "Service unavailable" message
• "Try again later" message
• Connection failed

Solutions:

• Wait a few minutes and try again
• System may be temporarily down
• Try during off-peak hours
• Use alternative method (website, WhatsApp)
• Contact SASSA call centre

Problem 4: Wrong Information Displayed

Symptoms:

• Shows incorrect status
• Wrong payment information
• Doesn't match your situation

Solutions:

• Verify you entered correct ID number
• Ensure using registered phone number
• Try again with correct information
• Contact SASSA to verify status
• Use alternative method to cross-check

Problem 5: Can't Complete Process

Symptoms:

• Stuck at certain step
• Can't enter information
• Process times out

Solutions:

• Start over and try again
• Enter information more quickly
• Ensure good signal strength
• Try alternative USSD code
• Use website or WhatsApp instead

USSD vs. Other Methods

USSD vs. Website

USSD Advantages:

• No internet required
• Works on basic phones
• Quick and simple
• No data charges

Website Advantages:

• More detailed information
• Can update banking details
• Submit appeals
• More comprehensive

USSD vs. WhatsApp

USSD Advantages:

• No internet or data needed
• Works on very basic phones
• No app required
• Always available

WhatsApp Advantages:

• More user-friendly interface
• Can save conversations
• Visual menu system
• Multiple language support

USSD vs. Call Centre

USSD Advantages:

• No waiting on hold
• Available 24/7
• Free or very low cost
• Quick status checks

Call Centre Advantages:

• Human assistance
• Complex issue resolution
• Detailed explanations
• Personalized help

Best Practices

Do's

• Use Registered Number: Always use phone number registered with SASSA
• Have ID Ready: Keep ID number handy before dialing
• Enter Carefully: Type ID number slowly and accurately
• Note Information: Write down important details immediately
• Try Alternative Codes: If one doesn't work, try others
• Be Patient: Allow time for menu to load
• Check Signal: Ensure good network reception

Don'ts

• Don't Rush: Take time to enter information correctly
• Don't Use Wrong Number: Must use registered phone number
• Don't Add Spaces: Enter code exactly as shown
• Don't Give Up: Try alternative codes if one fails
• Don't Ignore Errors: Note error messages for troubleshooting

Network-Specific Information

Vodacom

USSD Code: 1347737#
Status: Fully supported
Cost: Free
Availability: 24/7
Notes: Most reliable on Vodacom network

MTN

USSD Code: 1347737# or 12069277#
Status: Fully supported
Cost: Free
Availability: 24/7
Notes: Try both codes if one doesn't work

Cell C

USSD Code: 1347737#
Status: Supported
Cost: Free
Availability: 24/7
Notes: May have slight delays during peak times

Telkom Mobile

USSD Code: 1347737#
Status: Supported
Cost: Free
Availability: 24/7
Notes: Coverage may vary in rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Is USSD free to use?

USSD codes are typically free, but some networks may charge minimal standard rates. Check with your network provider, but costs are usually negligible.

What if the USSD code doesn't work on my network?

If 1347737# doesn't work, try:

• 12069277#
• 1203210#
• Contact your network provider
• Use alternative method (website, WhatsApp, call centre)

Can I use USSD if I changed my phone number?

You must use the phone number registered with your SASSA application. If you changed numbers, update with SASSA first via website or by visiting office.

How long does USSD status check take?

USSD status checks are typically instant—menu appears within 5-10 seconds, and status information displays immediately after entering your details.

What if I make a mistake entering my ID number?

If you make a mistake, the system will likely show an error or "not found" message. Simply start over and dial the code again, entering your ID number correctly.

Can I update banking details via USSD?

Limited banking updates may be possible via USSD, but it's easier and more reliable to use the website, WhatsApp, or visit a SASSA office.

Does USSD work without airtime?

USSD typically works even with low or no airtime balance, as it's a network service. However, this may vary by network provider.

What if USSD shows wrong information?

If USSD shows incorrect information:

• Verify you entered correct ID and phone number
• Try again to ensure no input errors
• Cross-check with website or WhatsApp
• Contact SASSA call centre for verification

Conclusion

USSD codes provide one of the most accessible ways to check your SASSA grant status, especially for those with basic phones or limited internet access. The 1347737# code is simple to use, works on any mobile phone, and provides instant status information. While USSD has some limitations compared to website or call centre services, it's an excellent option for quick status checks and basic information.

For more detailed information, complex updates, or if USSD doesn't work for you, use the SASSA website, WhatsApp, or visit a SASSA office. For more guides on checking your status through other methods, see our comprehensive SASSA resources.

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Related Articles:

• SASSA Status via WhatsApp — Complete Guide
• How to Check Your SASSA Status Online (2026)
• SASSA Status Check Not Working — Fixes (2026)
• SASSA R350 Grant Payment Dates (2026 Full List)

Official Resources:

• SASSA Official Website
• SASSA Call Centre