Just dealt with updating my SASSA details and figured I'd share what I learned since a lot of people seem confused about this. If you're on the SRD grant and need to change your phone number, the process is actually pretty straightforward online - you go through their portal, enter your ID and application number, then they send an OTP to your new number to verify. Takes a few minutes if everything goes smoothly.

But here's the thing - if you're getting a permanent grant like the R350 or disability grant, it's way more complicated. You literally can't do it online. You have to physically go to a SASSA office, fill out forms, bring your ID, and show proof of your new bank account (a recent bank statement works). They said it can take up to 21 working days for the banks to verify the new details, so don't expect it to be instant.

The phone number update for permanent grants is also manual - you either visit the office or call their helpline at 0800 60 10 11. Not ideal if you're trying to do everything remotely, but at least the SRD process is digital. One warning though: there are fake SASSA websites out there trying to scam people, so always make sure you're on the official site before entering your details. Learned that the hard way from a friend.