Ask Athalie Banner

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.

If I don't withdraw all the money from my SASSA grant, will the remainder be lost?

No, the money will not disappear, but SASSA says you need to withdraw some of the grant money within 90 days.

Read more

How can I apply for a disability grant if I cannot get to the SASSA office?

You can ask a family member or friend to apply on your behalf. They must take a letter from you and a doctor's note saying why you can't visit the office yourself.

Read more

Can I withdraw my entire pension from my preservation fund if I have not yet retired?

Yes, you can make a full or partial withdrawal before retirement, but you can only do so once.

Read more

Why have I still not heard back from Home Affairs regarding my appeal for my rejected letter of good cause?

There is a huge backlog at Home Affairs, so the acting Director-General extended existing permits for those who applied or appealed before 20 November 2023.

Read more

Can people living on a shared property apply for indigent support?

Different municipalities have their own policies. Check with yours and if you can apply, discuss installing a pre-paid meter with your landlord.

Read more

Can I be denied a disability grant because I have orthopaedic or prosthetic device?

If your disability has been improved or corrected with assistive technology, you may no longer qualify for the grant.

Read more

Can I get shared custody of my son if I was not named as the father on his birth certificate?

Yes, but only with the mother's permission can an application be made to the High Court.

Read more

Can I apply for my newborn's birth certificate if I am still waiting for Home Affairs to verify my fingerprints?

Probably not. You can ask Home Affairs if they can expedite your fingerprint verification.

Read more

How can I report B-BBEE fronting?

You should lay a complaint with the B-BBEE Commission.

Read more

How can I report a shop that took my money but never delivered my purchase?

You can lodge a complaint at a Consumer Protection office under Section 41 of the Consumer Protection Act.

Read more