Who is the Target Group?

• Pensioners and recipients of social grants are targeted by the moneylenders
• Moneylenders exploit beneficiaries of social grants by offering loans at high interest rates.

The Law and Moneylenders

• It is unlawful to use your grant in order to get loan from moneylenders.
• Section 11(1) of the Social Assistance Act, 59 of 1992 says that it is unlawful to transfer, cede or pledge your social grant.
• Moneylenders are not allowed to have your payment cards and/or identity documents in their possession.
• Moneylenders can be arrested if they are caught in possession of payment cards which are used as surety for loans.

What Can the Department Do?

• A grant can be withheld, suspended or stopped if a beneficiary attempts to transfer, cede or pledge his/her grant.
• New applicants must sign a declaration of intent for the safekeeping of the AllPay cards and that it must not be made available to moneylenders.

What Can You Do?

• Do not use your use your social grants to obtain loans.
• Ensure that your card is not in the possession of any moneylenders
• Report any suspicious activity regarding money lending or other exploitation to your nearest office of the Department of Social Development.

Take care of the Aged and vulnerable in society and love them - they deserve it!

For more information contact the toll free helpline on 0800 220 250.