When SASSA processes your application, it checks whether you truly need financial assistance. This message means that SASSA found a source of income under your ID or mobile number and that income might be too high to qualify for the SRD R370 grant (formerly R350). If SASSA identifies that your monthly income is above the threshold currently R624 or more — your application is automatically rejected.
How SASSA Identifies Income Sources?
SASSA uses multiple methods to verify income. I’ve seen cases where even small bank transactions, like family support deposits or short-term payments, triggered a rejection. Here’s what they consider:
1. Income Amount
SASSA examines your bank activity to determine how much money you’ve received within the month. If any amount over R624 lands in your account — whether from salary, family support, or other, it can flag your application as ineligible.
Tip: If you received once-off support from someone that doesn’t reflect your actual income status, that’s a valid reason for appeal.
2. Income Frequency
It’s not just about the amount — how often you receive money matters too.
If SASSA notices regular deposits, even if small, they might interpret it as a recurring income source, suggesting that you’re not financially distressed.
3. Income Type
SASSA also looks at what kind of income you receive:
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Active Income – Money from a job, salary, or any regular work.
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Passive Income – Earnings like rent, royalties, or earnings from YouTube channels, etc.
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Portfolio Income – Money from investments, interest, or dividends.
All these can affect your eligibility. In my experience, even rental income flagged some applications, especially if it was sent regularly via bank transfer.
How To Resolve This Issue?
If your application was rejected and you believe it’s a mistake, don’t panic; you can appeal SASSA. I’ve guided applicants through the reconsideration process, and many successfully got approved afterward.
Important Insight
Each SASSA grant has its own means test limits. For example:
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SRD Grant: Income must be below R624/month
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Foster Care or Child Support Grants: Limits differ and often consider household income
If you’re applying for multiple grants, ensure you meet the income threshold for each one separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
➤ What does “means income source identified” mean in SASSA?
It means SASSA has found one or more sources of income in your name and determined that your monthly earnings exceed the eligibility limit for the grant.
➤ How does SASSA identify my income source?
SASSA checks your bank records and account activity, including how much money you receive, how often, and from what sources.
➤ What counts as a source of income?
Sources can include salaries, freelance work, rental income, government payments, or investment returns.
Final Thoughts
“Means Income Source Identified” doesn’t always mean you’re ineligible, sometimes, it’s just a misunderstanding or misclassification. I’ve seen this happen more than once.
If you truly don’t have consistent income or your earnings are below the required amount, don’t hesitate to submit an appeal. The system is designed to support those in real need, and if that’s you, make sure your voice is heard.
