The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank are urging social grant beneficiaries to replace their SASSA Gold Cards with the newly issued Postbank Black Cards before the deadline of February 28, 2025. This change is crucial to ensure uninterrupted access to grant payments.
Importance of the Postbank Black Card Deadline
SASSA has highlighted that if beneficiaries do not switch to the Postbank Black Cards by February 28, they will be unable to use their SASSA Gold Cards for any transactions.
The Gold Cards will be fully disabled and cannot be used for cash withdrawals, balance checks, statement printing, or retail purchases.
- Postbank’s Transition Timeline:
Postbank began replacing the SASSA Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards in September 2024. A large number of beneficiaries have already transitioned, using their new cards to access their grants without issues. - Final Payment Dates with Gold Cards:
The SASSA grant payments made during the week of February 4 to 6, 2025, will be the last ones issued through SASSA Gold Cards. Starting in March 2025, beneficiaries will need their new Postbank Black Cards to continue receiving payments.
Instructions for Beneficiaries to Collect Their New Cards
Postbank’s CEO, Nikki Mbengashe, emphasized the importance of beneficiaries who haven’t yet swapped their cards to do so before the February 28 deadline. Failure to do so will result in the Gold Cards being completely invalid for all transactions.
- Required Documents for Card Collection:
Beneficiaries must present a valid South African ID or temporary ID to collect the new Postbank Black Cards. No card will be issued without proper identification. The card replacement process is free of charge for all beneficiaries. - Where to Get the New Cards:
Postbank has partnered with major retailers such as Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer. Beneficiaries can visit these retailers or nearby Postbank branches to collect their Postbank Black Cards. Additionally, beneficiaries can use the following steps to collect their cards:- Dial: 120218*3#
- Follow the prompts to select their province.
Benefits of the Postbank Black Card
The Postbank Black Cards offer various benefits to beneficiaries, making them a more convenient and cost-effective option for managing grants:
- One Free Card Replacement Per Year
- Three Free Withdrawals at Stores Per Month
- One Free Monthly Statement Over the Counter
The new cards are compatible with all National Payment System channels, which means they can be used immediately at ATMs, retail POS machines, and any other places that accept bank cards.
How to Obtain the New Postbank Black Card
Beneficiaries can easily replace their SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards by visiting designated locations or following the steps provided above.
Beneficiaries must take action to replace their SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards before the deadline of February 28, 2025. After this date, Gold Cards will be completely disabled, preventing any transactions.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to visit Postbank branches or partnered retailers to avoid disruption in their SASSA grant payments. The Postbank Black Cards offer a variety of benefits, making them an essential tool for accessing social grants.
FAQs
When will the SASSA Gold Cards stop working?
The SASSA Gold Cards will become inactive on February 28, 2025. After this date, they cannot be used for any transactions.
How can I replace my SASSA Gold Card?
Beneficiaries must visit a Postbank branch or participating retailer (such as Checkers, Shoprite, or Pick n Pay) with a valid South African ID or temporary ID to receive their new Postbank Black Card.
Are there any charges for replacing the card?
No, the replacement of the SASSA Gold Card with a Postbank Black Card is free of charge.