What is “Means Income Source Identified” & How to Fix It
What Does “Means Income Source Identified” Mean?
First of all don’t get confused with “means income source identified” and “alternative income source identified”, both are same things. Previously, SASSA used to mention it as alternative income but now in the reason section of declined you will find “means_income_source_identified”.
When you check your SRD R370 application and it says “Means Income Source Identified,” it means SASSA found money in your bank account that suggests you’re not completely reliant on the grant. See the example below; how does it look like.
The eligibility criteria for SRD grant says that your monthly income should be less than R624. Here’s how it works:
- SASSA partners with banks to monitor incoming funds.
- If you recieve more than R624 per month (excluding the SRD grant itself), SASSA assumes you have another source of income.
- This amount—R624—is the official means test threshold.
So even if you only recieved R650 as a once-off deposit, your application might get flagged.
SASSA’s system is automated. It looks at bank statements, linked accounts, and transactions monthly. So it doesn’t matter when you applied—if R624+ hits your account in that month, you could get declined.
Why You Received This Status
Bank Verification Process
SASSA doesn’t just take your word. Every applicant goes through a bank verification process to check for:
This is done via partnerships with the major South African banks. The system looks at accounts linked to your ID number—not just the one you used to apply.
That means even if your gogo sends money into a savings account you forgot about… it can still be flagged.
Common Income Sources Detected
These are examples of what SASSA might count as “alternative income”:
Even if it’s not a job, if it’s regular and above R624, SASSA flags it.
Can You Still Qualify for SRD?
Yes, but it depends. Here’s when you can still get approved:
But you need to appeal and provide proof.
How to Fix “Alternative Income Source Identified” Status
Step-by-Step Appeal Process
You’ve got 90 days from the date of decline to appeal.
- Go to the SASSA SRD Appeals website:
- 👉 https://srd.dsd.gov.za/appeals
- Enter your ID number and cellphone number.
- Select the month you were declined.
- Submit your appeal and give a short reason, like: “Funds received were once-off from family for funeral expenses.”
- Wait. SASSA and DSD (Department of Social Development) will review it. It can take a few weeks.
Tips for a Successful Appeal
If your appeal is successful, your payment will be processed for that month. If declined again, you can still check next month—your status resets every month.
How to Avoid This Issue in Future
Remember—SASSA isn’t trying to be mean. They just need to make sure the help goes to those who really need it.
What if I Don’t Have Another Income?
If you don’t earn anything, but you still got this status, you must appeal.
It could be:
The only way to fix it is through the appeal process. Sitting and waiting won’t change anything.
Conclusion
If you’ve received the “Means Income Source Identified” status, don’t panic—you still have a chance to appeal and set the record straight. Just make sure your information is accurate, honest, and backed by proof. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many others are navigating the same process with SASSA. Appeal quickly. Keep your banking activity clean. And check status every month. I hope this guide helped you understand what’s going on and how to move forward. If you still need help, comment below or contact SASSA directly using their official email.
FAQs
Editor at SGC
Sifiso Andreas
Hi! I’m Sifiso Andreas, with a background as a Grant Administrator at SASSA, I bring firsthand experience and deep knowledge of social welfare programs in South Africa. My goal is to help you navigate the complexities of social grants, scholarships, and government assistance with up-to-date resources and expert guidance. Join me for the latest updates and essential information on SASSA grants.
