This affidavit is a formal, sworn statement — made under oath — that you are currently unemployed and receive no income. SASSA requires it when your application needs proof of financial status and you have no employer documents to provide, and the independent tribunal expects it with most appeals against 'income identified' or means-test declines.
How to complete the affidavit
Complete your personal details
Full name (exactly as on your ID), ID number, and residential address.
State your unemployment clearly
Declare in plain language that you are currently unemployed and receive no income from any source, including piece jobs, maintenance, or family support above the threshold.
Take it to a SAPS station unsigned
You must sign in the physical presence of a SAPS officer or commissioner of oaths. Signing at home invalidates the document.
Sign and let the officer stamp it
The officer witnesses your signature and applies the official stamp. This makes the affidavit legally valid.
- Blank affidavit form (printed)
- Your green ID book or smart ID card
- Black ink pen(optional)— Signatures must be in black ink.
Do not sign before you arrive
The single most common mistake: signing the affidavit at home. An officer cannot witness a signature already on paper, and SASSA will reject the document. Carry it blank and sign only in front of the officer.
When you will be asked for this affidavit
- New grant applications where you declare no income.
- SRD R370 appeals against 'Alternative Income Source' or 'Means Test Failed' declines.
- Grant reviews where your income declaration must be reconfirmed under oath.
- Any formal correspondence where SASSA requests proof of financial status.
Where do I get the affidavit form?
Free at any SAPS station or SASSA office — both stock the standard template. Never pay anyone for this form.
Does the affidavit expire?
SASSA generally treats affidavits as current for about three months. For appeals, swear a fresh one close to your lodgement date.
Can I swear the affidavit somewhere other than a police station?
Yes — any commissioner of oaths can witness it, including certain bank officials, attorneys and post office personnel. SAPS stations remain the most reliable free option.
I do piece jobs occasionally. Can I still swear I'm unemployed?
Be precise: declare that you have no permanent employment and state your occasional earnings honestly. A knowingly false sworn statement is a criminal offence and can trigger grant cancellation and repayment demands.
Sources used on this page
Requirements verified August 2026.
Need Official Assistance?
This is an independent informational resource. For official services — checking your grant status, updating your details, or submitting an appeal — please use the official SASSA portals directly: