Sassa says it has paid attention to complaints from social grant beneficiaries to perform life certification by verifying voice prints by calling a toll-free number monthly before payments could be released.
As a result of numerous complaints, Sassa has decided to review this process.
Beneficiaries who use a PIN to access their grants at shops and ATM’s will still receive their grants during the review period.
However, from August 1 free cell phone simcards will no longer be issued at Sassa offices.
Sassa CEO Virginia Petersen said: "We're committed to provide effective and efficient social services to our beneficiaries without any delays. Consistent with “Batho-Pele” principles, the agency places its beneficiary first.”