How to write an Affidavit for SASSA Grant Application?

When you need to apply for SASSA grants like Foster Child grant or Care Dependency grant then you need to sign an affidavit if one or more ID documents are missing. An affidavit is a written statement that you swear is true. It can confirm your personal information, financial situation, or other important details.

This guide will show you how to write an affidavit for a SASSA grant application step by step, with real examples and tips to make the process smooth.

What is an Affidavit?

An affidavit is a legal document that:

• You write and sign.
• States facts that are true to your knowledge.
• Is sworn in front of a Commissioner of Oaths, such as a police officer, lawyer, or magistrate.
• Can be used as proof when you don’t have other documents.

SASSA often requests an affidavit if:

• You or your foster child lost the ID.
• Your income source is unclear.
• You live with someone else and need proof of your circumstances.

Steps to Write an Affidavit for SASSA

Follow these steps carefully to ensure your affidavit is accepted by SASSA.

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Your Affidavit

Before writing, ask yourself why you need the affidavit. Some common reasons include:

• Confirming that you do not earn income.
• Confirming your living situation.
• Explaining missing documents.
• Proving your identity or that of a family member.

Knowing the reason helps you write clearly and stay focused.

Example:
I once applied for the SRD R370 grant, and SASSA asked me for an affidavit because my bank account was registered under my mother’s name. My affidavit explained that I lived with her and had no income.

Step 2: Use the Right Format

SASSA affidavits should be simple but formal. Follow this structure:

• Heading: “AFFIDAVIT” at the top of the page.
• Introduction: Your personal information (name, ID number, address, contact number).
• Statement of facts: The reason for the affidavit and your declaration.
• Conclusion: Swearing the affidavit is true.
• Signature line: Your signature and date.
• Commissioner of Oaths: Space for their signature, name, and stamp.

Step 3: Gather Personal Information

Make sure you have all your details ready:

• Full name (as in your ID)
• South African ID number
• Physical address
• Postal address (if different)
• Contact number
• Occupation or source of income (if any)

Step 4: Write a Clear Introduction

Start with a simple statement introducing yourself. For example:

“I, [Your Full Name], ID number [Your ID Number], residing at [Your Address], hereby declare under oath that the following statements are true to the best of my knowledge.”

Your introduction sets the tone. Keep it clear and factual.

Step 5: State the Purpose of Your Affidavit

Explain why you are writing this affidavit. Be direct and specific. For example:

• “I have applied for the SASSA SRD R370 grant, but my bank account is in my mother’s name. I have no personal income and live with my mother. I submit this affidavit as proof of my living situation.”
• “I lost my ID and cannot provide my ID copy. This affidavit confirms my identity for the SASSA grant application.”

Step 6: Write the Main Body of Facts

The main body should contain all relevant facts. Use short, simple sentences. Include:

• Your financial situation.
• Living arrangements.
• Any supporting information SASSA asked for.
• Dates, names, and other factual details.

Example of a statement:

• “I am unemployed and have no source of income.”
• “I live with my mother, [Mother’s Name], at [Address], since January 2026.”
• “I do not receive any support from family members or other sources.”

Step 7: Swear or Affirm the Affidavit

At the end of the affidavit, write a statement confirming that all information is true:

“I hereby swear that the information provided in this affidavit is true and correct, and I understand that providing false information is a criminal offence.”

This shows that you are legally responsible for the information.

Step 8: Sign in Front of a Commissioner of Oaths

You cannot sign the affidavit alone. Steps:

1. Take the completed affidavit to a Commissioner of Oaths.
2. Bring your valid South African ID.
3. Sign the affidavit in front of the Commissioner.
4. The Commissioner will verify your ID, witness your signature, and stamp the affidavit.

Common Commissioners of Oaths:

• Police officers
• Notaries
• Magistrates
• Certain SASSA offices

Step 9: Include Supporting Documents (if any)

Attach any supporting documents that strengthen your affidavit:

• Letter from a local councilor
• Bank statements
• Lease agreements
• Letter from school or employer

Even if you don’t have these documents, your affidavit alone can be accepted if it clearly explains your situation.

Step 10: Make Copies

After signing:

• Keep at least two copies of the affidavit.
• Submit one copy to SASSA.
• Keep the other for your records.

Real-Life Example by the Author

When I applied for the SRD grant in June 2025, SASSA requested proof that I had no income. My bank account was under my mother’s name. I wrote an affidavit stating:

• I was unemployed.
• I lived with my mother at her address.
• I did not earn any income from employment or freelance work.

I took the affidavit to a local police station, signed it in front of a Commissioner of Oaths, and submitted it with my application. Within two weeks, my SRD grant was approved. This shows how important a correctly written affidavit is for SASSA grants.

How to Write a Strong Affidavit?

• Be honest: Never exaggerate or lie. False information can be a crime.
• Keep it simple: Use short, clear sentences. Avoid complicated words.
• Be specific: Include names, dates, and addresses.
• Check spelling: Errors can make the affidavit look unprofessional.
• Use formal language: Avoid slang or casual expressions.
• Follow instructions: If SASSA requested specific details, include them.

What to Avoid?

1. Incomplete personal details – Always include your full name, ID, and address.
2. Unsigned affidavit – Must be signed in front of a Commissioner of Oaths.
3. Vague statements – Example: “I have no money.” Instead, state: “I am unemployed and have no source of income.”
4. Missing purpose – Clearly state why you are submitting the affidavit.
5. Handwriting issues – Write legibly or type your affidavit.

Conclusion

Writing an affidavit for a SASSA grant is not difficult if you follow the steps carefully. It is a formal way to prove your situation and ensure your application is not rejected. Always include all relevant details, sign in front of a Commissioner of Oaths, and keep copies for your records.

With a properly written affidavit, your chances of getting the SASSA grant approval increase. Remember, honesty and clarity are key.