Time is running out for South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries to switch from their Gold Cards to the new Postbank Black Cards. The deadline for this transition is February 28, 2025, after which all SASSA Gold Cards will no longer be valid for any transactions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do, how to switch, and what happens if you don’t renew your card.
Why the switch?
Postbank began replacing SASSA Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards in September 2024. The new cards come with enhanced security features, including biometric authentication and improved encryption, ensuring faster and safer access to grant payments.
According to Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe, “Hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries have already changed their cards and are accessing their grants using the Postbank Black Cards.”
She urged remaining beneficiaries to act quickly, stating, “All current SASSA Gold Cards in everyone’s possession will stop working on February 28, irrespective of the expiry date written on the card.”
What Happens If You Don’t Switch?
If beneficiaries fail to switch to the Postbank Black Card by the deadline, they will no longer be able to access their SASSA grant payments. The Gold Cards will be blocked, making it impossible to:
- Withdraw cash from ATMs or retailers,
- Perform balance enquiries,
- Print statements, or
- Make retail purchases.
How to Switch to the Postbank Black Card
Switching to the new card is free and straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Find a Card Replacement Location
- Dial 120218*3# from your cellphone.
- Select Option 1 to continue.
- Choose your province from the list provided.
- You will receive a list of nearby locations where you can collect your new card.
Step 2: Visit a Retailer or Postbank Site
Postbank has partnered with major retailers to make the process convenient. You can collect your new Black Card at:
- Checkers
- Shoprite
- Pick n Pay
- Usave
- Boxer
Mbengashe emphasized, “Our strategy for where we chose to issue our cards is based on where customers already get their grants now. We have worked with these retailers because they are familiar to our customers.”
Step 3: bring the required documents
To collect your new Postbank Black Card, you must bring:
- A valid South African ID or temporary ID.
- If collecting on behalf of someone else, bring the SASSA proxy letter.
- Asylum seekers must bring their official SASSA approval letter.
Step 4: Start using your new card immediately
The Postbank Black Card is activated immediately upon issuance and can be used at:
- ATMs,
- Retailer point-of-sale machines, and
- Anywhere bank cards are accepted.
Benefits of the Postbank Black Card
The new card offers several advantages, including:
- One free card replacement per year,
- Three free withdrawals in stores per month, and
- One free monthly statement over the counter.
Special arrangements for sick and bedridden beneficiaries
Postbank has implemented a home visit program to ensure that sick and bedridden beneficiaries receive their new cards without having to visit replacement sites.
Important contact information
For further inquiries or assistance, beneficiaries can contact:
- Postbank Customer Care: 0800 53 54 55
- SASSA Customer Care: 0800 60 10 11
- SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email SASSA: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Final reminder
The SASSA grant payments made between February 4 and 6, 2025 were the last payments processed using the Gold Cards. Beneficiaries are encouraged to act now to avoid disruptions in accessing their grants.
As Mbengashe stated, “Please go to your nearest Postbank site, which is mainly located at one of the retailers near you, and get your Postbank Black Card to continue transacting.”
Don’t wait until it’s too late—switch to the Postbank Black Card today!
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