In certain situations where individuals are unable to apply for or receive their SASSA Grant due to reasons such as sickness, old age, or mobility issues, they have the option to appoint another person to act on their behalf. This person is referred to as a procurator, who can apply for and receive the grant on behalf of the beneficiary. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step process for appointing a procurator and applying for a SASSA Grant.
What is Power of Attorney?
Power of attorney is an authoritative letter that allows one individual, known as the agent or procurator, to act on behalf of another person, referred to as the principal or beneficiary. It is a proof of consent from the principal for the agent to act on their behalf. The agent is granted the ability to make decisions and notify third parties about the principal’s affairs. To grant power of attorney for SASSA Grant assistance, specific steps need to be followed.
Appointing a Procurator
- The principal should choose a trusted individual, such as a spouse, family member, or close friend, to act as their procurator.
- Both the principal and the chosen procurator should visit a SASSA office to collect a special Power of Attorney form.
- In the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (e.g., a lawyer, church minister, police officer, or bank/post office official), the beneficiary and procurator must sign and fingerprint the Power of Attorney form.
- If the beneficiary is unable to visit a Commissioner of Oaths due to sickness, old age, or disability, they may nominate two people who know them well to make an affidavit confirming their condition. Alternatively, they can request a SASSA official to visit their home for the completion and signing of the Power of Attorney form.
Qualifications for a Procurator
A procurator must meet the following criteria to be eligible for appointment:
- Possess a valid Identity Document.
- Be 18 years old or older.
- Have a permanent residence in South Africa with a fixed address.
- Not be an unrehabilitated insolvent.
- Consent to being appointed as the procurator.
- Have no outstanding debts owed to the beneficiary.
Applying for a Grant on Behalf of the Beneficiary
Once the procurator has been appointed, they need to submit the following documents to SASSA:
- Proof of identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
- Life certificate of the beneficiary.
- An affidavit stating that the social assistance received by the procurator will be given to the beneficiary.
The procurator must also sign the grant application form and provide their thumbprints. It is the procurator’s responsibility to inform SASSA about any changes in the beneficiary’s circumstances.
Duration of Procuratorship
For individuals who only require a procurator temporarily, such as during a hospitalization period, they may nominate a procurator for a duration of up to 3 months.
Termination of Procurator Agreement
If a beneficiary wishes to end their agreement with a procurator, the following steps should be followed:
- Notify SASSA in writing about the termination, including the effective date.
- Alternatively, submit a sworn statement if the beneficiary is unable to read or write.
Upon being notified of the termination, the procurator must:
- Notify SASSA in writing about the termination.
- Transfer any remaining grant money back to the beneficiary within 10 days of the termination.
Contacting SASSA
For any further inquiries or assistance, please contact SASSA directly through their official website: SASSA Contact.
Remember, the appointment of a procurator can be a helpful solution for individuals who are unable to apply for or receive their SASSA Grant. By following the proper steps and providing the necessary documentation, the procurator can ensure the beneficiary continues to receive the much-needed social assistance.
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