How to SASSA Change Phone Number Without OTP in 2025?

If you’re a SASSA beneficiary, keeping your contact details up-to-date is important to ensure you receive important information and updates regarding your grant.

Sometimes, you may need to change your phone number but can’t receive the One-Time PIN (OTP) for verification because you no longer have access to the old phone number or you lost it.

In this article, we’ll explain how you can update or change your SASSA phone number without an OTP, step by step.

How to SASSA Change Phone Number without OTP? (Quick Answer)

Changing your SASSA phone number without an OTP is possible by following these steps:

1. Visit your nearest SASSA office
2. Bring valid ID and proof of residence
3. Explain you can’t receive OTP
4. Provide new phone number
5. Allow staff to verify your identity
6. Wait for confirmation of update

Alternatively, call SASSA helpline for guidance on updating without OTP.

Why is Updating Your Phone Number Important?

Your phone number is directly linked to your SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) account. It’s used for communication, verification, and receiving important notifications, including payment dates & Checking your SASSA Status.

If your phone number changes and you don’t update it, you might miss out on critical information or face difficulties accessing your benefits. Hence, keeping it updated ensures seamless access to your grant and SASSA services.

Can You Change Your Phone Number Without OTP?

Yes, you can change your SASSA phone number without an OTP, but the process may require additional steps and documentation to verify your identity. The OTP system is designed for security, but if you’re unable to receive the OTP due to losing access to your old phone number, there are alternative methods to update your details.

How to SASSA Change Phone Number without OTP? (Steps)

Let’s go over the different ways you can update your phone number without an OTP.

1. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office

The most reliable way to change your phone number without needing an OTP is by visiting your local SASSA office. This option is recommended if you no longer have access to your old phone number and can’t receive an OTP. Here’s what to expect:

What to Bring:

• Valid ID Document: You must bring your South African ID book, ID card, or passport.
• Proof of Residence: Some offices may ask for proof of residence like a utility bill to confirm your address.
• Old Phone Number (If Possible): If you still remember your old phone number, provide it to the SASSA official. This helps them verify your account.

Steps:

• Step 1: Go to the nearest SASSA office in your area. You can find your local branch through the official SASSA website or by calling the helpline.
• Step 2: Let the SASSA official know that you need to update your phone number but no longer have access to the old one, meaning you can’t receive an OTP.
• Step 3: Submit your ID and any other required documentation. The official will verify your identity and update your phone number in their system.

Benefits:

• This method ensures that your phone number is securely updated without needing the OTP.
• You can ask any other grant-related questions during your visit.

2. Call the SASSA Helpline

If you can’t visit a SASSA office, the next best option is calling the SASSA helpline. While this option might not allow an instant phone number update, the helpline staff can guide you on what to do next.

SASSA Helpline Number:

• Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11

Steps:

• Step 1: Call the toll-free SASSA helpline and explain that you need to update your phone number without access to the old number for an OTP.
• Step 2: The helpline agent may ask for your ID number, old phone number, and other details to verify your account.
• Step 3: Follow the instructions provided by the agent. They may guide you to a nearby office or ask you to submit additional documents to process the change.

Benefits:

• You get personalized assistance directly from SASSA.
• It’s a convenient option if you can’t visit a SASSA office immediately.

3. Submit a Written Request via Email

Another way to update your phone number without an OTP is by submitting a written request to SASSA. This method allows you to communicate directly with SASSA, providing them with the necessary details to update your phone number.

Steps:

• Step 1: Write a request letter explaining why you need to change your phone number. Include your full name, ID number, old phone number (if known), and your new phone number.
• Step 2: Attach a certified copy of your ID. Certification can be done at a police station or by a commissioner of oaths.
• Step 3: Send the email to the relevant SASSA address for your region. For general inquiries, you can email [email protected].

Benefits:

• This method can be done from the comfort of your home.
• If you provide all necessary documents, SASSA may update your details without needing an in-person visit.

4. Use Your Post Office or Payment Location

If you collect your SASSA grant from the Post Office or another designated payment point, you might be able to change your phone number when you collect your payment. Here’s how it works:

Steps:

• Step 1: When you visit the Post Office or payment point to collect your grant, bring your ID document.
• Step 2: Ask the staff if they can help update your phone number in the system. Explain that you no longer have access to your old phone and can’t receive an OTP.
• Step 3: Provide your new phone number and ID for verification.

Benefits:

• You can update your phone number while collecting your grant.
• This method works well if you frequently visit the Post Office for your payments.

What to Do If You Experience Delays?

In some cases, updating your phone number might take longer than expected. If this happens, here are some tips to follow:

• Follow Up: If you don’t receive confirmation after your request, call the SASSA helpline or visit the office where you submitted your request to check on the status.
• Check Emails: If you submitted a request via email, keep an eye on your inbox for any responses from SASSA.
• Prepare to Resubmit: If your first request wasn’t processed, be prepared to resubmit the required documents or try another method.

Tips to Make the Process Smoother

Here are a few additional tips to make sure your phone number update goes as smoothly as possible:

• Keep All Documentation Ready: Whether you’re visiting a SASSA office, emailing them, or calling the helpline, make sure you have your ID, proof of residence, and old phone number ready.
• Stay Patient: Updating your phone number may take a few days, especially if done via email or phone. Be patient and follow up if necessary.
• Update Other Details if Needed: While updating your phone number, it’s also a good time to check that all your other details are correct, including your bank account and postal address.

Conclusion

Changing your phone number with SASSA without an OTP is possible, but it may require extra steps to verify your identity. The safest and most effective way is to visit a SASSA office in person.

If that’s not possible, calling the SASSA helpline or submitting a written request via email are good alternatives. Just make sure you have the necessary documents to make the process as smooth as possible. Keeping your phone number updated ensures you never miss any important updates about your SASSA grants.

With the right approach, you can get your phone number updated and continue to receive your grant without any delays.