Answers to your questions
Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.
Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].
What can I do about being declined for a disability grant even though I suffer from multiple ailments and am in constant pain?
You can ask SASSA to reconsider your application. You can also appeal to the Minister of Social Development.
Can I get Home Affairs to make my ID interview sooner if it's urgent?
Your best bet is probably to ask an organisation that frequently deals with Home Affairs to help you.
How can I get a death certificate for my parent so that I can apply for my ID?
You can apply for a replacement copy or a full death certificate at any Home Affairs office.
How can I get an ID for my child when Home Affairs says they need his Malawian mother’s details too?
Only one parent's ID is required to apply for an ID, according to Home Affairs' website, so you may want to get legal help.
My late mother's husband is stopping me and my sister from claiming our inheritance. What can we do?
Go to the Master of the High Court where the letter of authority was issued and ask them to help you.
What should we do now that my son's Child Support Grant payment has stopped because the primary care giver died?
You should go to the SASSA office and explain the situation and why you are applying for the Child Support Grant.
How can I take custody of my 16-year-old son and change his surname to mine?
Both of these issues can be resolved through mediation to reach an agreement or parenting plan, which can then be made an order of court.
Can refugees in South Africa apply for resettlement to another country?
Unfortunately not. UNHCR says that refugees are identified for Resettlement based on their protection needs.
What happens to my visa if I, a non-citizen, divorce from my permanent resident spouse?
The Director-General of Home Affairs can issue an order that will allow a foreign ex-spouse who applies for a visitor’s or relative’s visa to stay in the country.
Can the payment on rental arrears be increased unilaterally by your landlord without negotiation and agreement with you?
It should be possible to come to an agreement about the payment of rental arrears, as well as to compel the landlord to repair the premises and refund you for repairs undertaken at your own expense.