If you received an “Age Outside Range” error when applying for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant in 2024, this guide will help you resolve the issue.
The SRD grant provides temporary financial relief for those in dire need. However, strict age requirements must be met.
What Is the SRD Grant Age Requirement?
To qualify for the SRD grant in 2024, you must be between 18 and 59 years of age. If you are 60 years or older, you will not be eligible and receive the “Age Outside Range” status message. This is because alternative social grants like the Older Person’s Grant are available once you turn 60.
Older Person’s Grant Eligibility
If you are 60 years or older, you can apply for the Older Person’s Grant from SASSA instead. This provides a monthly payment of R2,110 in 2024 to help meet basic needs. The amount increases to R2,160 per month if you are over 75 years old.
So if you received the SRD “Age Outside Range” error, first double check your age meets the requirements. If you are 60 or over, apply for the Older Person’s Grant rather than the SRD grant.
Fixing an Incorrect “Age Outside Range” Error
If you have received the “Age Outside Range” message but you are sure your age meets the SRD grant requirements, it is likely an error. Follow this process to resolve it:
Step 1: Contact SASSA
You can call the SASSA contact center at 0800 60 10 11 or visit your nearest office. Explain that you meet the age criteria but still received the error. Provide your ID number and ask them to confirm your age on their system.
Step 2: Verify Your Supporting Documents
Make sure all copies of your ID document, proof of residence, bank statements etc. reflect your correct age. If any document has an error, get it fixed and provide SASSA certified copies.
Step 3: Follow Up on Your Application
If SASSA verifies your age meets the requirements, ask them to review and process your SRD application. Call back after a few days to follow up on the status.
Step 4: Submit a Complaint
If the “Age Outside Range” error persists despite your eligible age, submit an official complaint to SASSA. Follow their complaints process listing the steps you took to resolve the issue.
Step 5: Appeal the Decision
Should your complaint not resolve the error, formally appeal SASSA’s decision not to award you the SRD grant. Outline clearly why their decision is incorrect given your eligible age.
Provide all supporting documentation again with your appeal. SASSA will then reassess your application considering the extra evidence provided.
Other Grants If Not Eligible for SRD
If it is finally confirmed that your age falls outside the eligible SRD range, you may qualify for other grants:
Disability Grant – If you have a disability that prevents you working
Child Support Grant – If you are the primary caregiver of a child
Care Dependency Grant – If you care for a disabled child
Be sure to explore all grant options even if you are not eligible for the SRD grant specifically. All applications undergo regular reviews, so reapply if your circumstances change in future too.
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
