The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is urging gold card holders to upgrade to the new Postbank black cards before the 20 March deadline.
This change is crucial for beneficiaries who wish to continue accessing their SASSA grant payments smoothly.
Current Status of Card Swaps
During a recent meeting of the Social Development Oversight Committee in the Western Cape Legislature, Khusela Sangoni Diko, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies, confirmed that Postbank had committed to replacing gold cards until every eligible beneficiary has been assisted.
However, beneficiaries are left wondering: What will happen after the deadline, and how can they still access their grants?
What Happens After 20 March for Gold Card Holders?
The Postbank has emphasized that 20 March will be the final day for gold card holders to use their old cards. After this date, the old cards will be inactive, but beneficiaries will still have opportunities to apply for the new black card.
- April and May Payments for Gold Cardholders
Even after the deadline, those who have not yet upgraded to the new black card will still be able to receive their SASSA grant payments. They can do this through several methods, including withdrawing funds at retailers’ till points or collecting payments from the South African Post Office.
How to Continue Receiving SASSA Payments in April and May
Postbank has reassured beneficiaries that, even after 20 March, those who have not migrated to the new black cards can still collect their grants in the following ways:
- At the Post Office: Beneficiaries can collect their payments from one of the 543 Post Office branches across the country.
- Retailers: Payments can be collected at participating retailers such as Shoprite, Boxer, Spar, Pick n Pay, Checkers, and Usave using cardless payment methods.
Migration to Postbank Black Cards
Postbank has made it clear that the migration process will continue at card replacement sites even after the 20 March deadline. Beneficiaries who miss the deadline will be encouraged to visit these locations to obtain their new black cards.
Mobile teams from Postbank are also ensuring that beneficiaries in remote or rural areas are assisted with the migration process. These teams will continue issuing cards and assisting individuals who have not yet upgraded.
Where Can You Get Your New Postbank Black Card?
Beneficiaries can replace their SASSA gold cards at various collection points, including retailers like Shoprite, Boxer, Spar, Pick n Pay, and Checkers.
How to Apply for Your Postbank Black Card
To replace your gold card, follow these simple steps:
- Dial ** 120218*3#** from your phone.
- Select Option 1 for card replacement.
- Choose your province.
- You will then receive a list of locations where you can get your new card.
Requirements for Replacing Your Gold Card
- A valid ID or temporary ID.
- If you are collecting the grant for someone else, you must present the SASSA proxy letter.
- Asylum seekers need to bring their official SASSA approval letter.
- The card replacement process is free of charge, and beneficiaries will not lose their grant payments during the swap.
Eligibility for Foreign Nationals
Currently, foreign nationals are not eligible for the new Postbank black cards. However, they can still access their grant payments at any Post Office using their current documents even after the gold cards become inactive.
Key Payment Methods for April and May
After the 20 March deadline, SASSA grant recipients will still be able to access their payments through these options:
| Payment Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Post Office | Collect payments from 543 branches across South Africa. |
| Retailers (Cardless Payments) | Withdraw funds at participating retailers like Shoprite, Usave, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Spar, and Checkers. |
Beneficiaries are urged to act quickly and ensure they have migrated to the new Postbank black cards before the 20 March deadline. After this date, the old gold cards will no longer be valid, but there will be alternative ways to collect SASSA grant payments.
Postbank has committed to assisting all beneficiaries through mobile teams and additional collection sites. Ensure you visit your nearest Postbank branch or retailer to complete the process in time. For any further assistance, feel free to contact Postbank directly via their toll-free number 0800 53 54 55 or email postbank.enquiries@postbank.co.za.
FAQs
What happens if I miss the 20 March deadline for swapping my SASSA gold card?
You can still receive your payments at Post Office branches or participating retailers using a cardless payment method.
How do I get my new Postbank black card?
Dial ** 120218*3#** on your phone, follow the prompts, and select a location to replace your gold card.
Are foreign nationals eligible for the new Postbank black cards?
No, foreign nationals are not eligible for the new cards, but they can still access their payments at the Post Office using their current documents.
Can I collect my grant payments at any retailer?
No, only selected retailers such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Spar offer cardless payment options.
