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Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].

If I overstayed my visa and it has been waived, will it affect how my South African partner and I register our marriage?

It's possible that processes like a spousal visa application may be delayed because Home Affairs needs to pay particular attention to it.

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How can I claim Government Employees Pension Fund inheritance if I was born out of wedlock?

You may need to contact the GEPF to follow up. A child who is financially dependent on the member can receive a GEPF child pension until they are 22 years old.

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What rental rights do I have as a backyard dweller on council property?

As you are paying rent, you can complain to the Rental Housing Tribunal.

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I applied for housing 20 years ago, but I'm no longer with the person I applied with, and I have since married someone else. How do I proceed?

If you and your previous partner received a house, neither of you would be granted another subsidy. If you were not allocated a house, you should update your application with the municipality.

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What can I do if someone fraudulently applied for a disability grant on behalf of someone else, and is collecting the money, without their knowledge?

The true beneficiary can officially revoke the power of attorney that the person has assumed, and report the fraud to SASSA.

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How can I get a permanent disability grant? I have not been able to work since 2018.

When you apply for a disability grant, you will undergo a medical assessment to determine whether you should qualify for a temporary or permanent grant.

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How can I remove my V-list code J status?

For V-list Code J, there are two possible appeals that you can submit to the Director-General of Home Affairs.

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If someone is paying me back for a loan, should I declare it as income when I apply for a social grant?

SASSA will likely count the repayments as income. Because the grant value works on a sliding scale, I suggest you let SASSA know when the loan has been paid off.

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I was chased from my home by my abusive husband. Now I don't qualify for an RDP house. Is there anything I can do?

Given your circumstances, you could try contacting your local housing office and ask them to help you. Depending on your circumstances, you might qualify for a different housing programme.

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Is it possible for me to go check on my mother's RDP/BNG house application on her behalf?

Yes, as long as you have a document authorising you to do so.

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