Johannesburg: Social grant beneficiaries who have not replaced their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards with the new Postbank black cards are urged to do so. On 20 March 2025, SASSA gold cards will be deactivated, potentially leading to disruptions for those who have not transitioned to the new Postbank black cards.
According to South African Government News Agency, beneficiaries will not be able to use the SASSA gold cards for transactions, even if they have funds in their accounts, after the deactivation date. However, Postbank will continue replacing SASSA gold cards with the new Postbank black cards at all card replacement sites beyond this date.
Postbank and SASSA have assured that all social grant beneficiaries will continue to receive payments, including those who have not yet received their black cards. It is important for beneficiaries to note that Post Office branch payments will be limited to those who have yet to replace their SASSA gold cards, asylum seekers, and Postbank green Mzansi/blue card beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries already in possession of Postbank black cards are advised to use them at ATMs and retailers to access funds. The initial deadline for the card transition was set for 28 February 2025, but it has been extended to 20 March 2025 to allow beneficiaries additional time to make the switch.
The new Postbank black cards can be obtained at retailers such as Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer. To receive a new card, beneficiaries must present a valid South African ID or a temporary ID.
Postbank has facilitated the process for beneficiaries to locate the nearest collection points for their Postbank black cards by using their cellphones. The new cards offer benefits like improved security features, one free card replacement per year, three free withdrawals in stores per month, and one free monthly statement over the counter.