Postbank Replaces SASSA Gold Cards with Black Cards in 2025 – Full Details

SASSA Gold Cards 2025: A crucial announcement has arrived for millions of South African citizens who get social grants under the SASSA Gold Card. Postbank has clarified that beneficiaries whose cards have an expiry date in 2024 should not worry. Even after the card expires, they will not be interrupted from getting their grants.

This is in an attempt to put at rest the fears of the beneficiaries who were misled that they have to change their bank or obtain a new SASSA Gold Card forthwith. Postbank says the change of bank is not necessary, and the beneficiaries can continue to use their cards without issues.

Where can SASSA Gold Card be used?

The SASSA Gold Card validity will be up to 2024, and the beneficiaries will be able to utilise it at the following places:

• ATMs of most major banks
• Major retail outlets, including:
• Boxer
• Pick n Pay
• Shoprite
• Usave
• Spar

With these channels, beneficiaries will be able to obtain the grant in an easy manner, without having to stay in long queues or go to congested centres

Process of replacing SASSA Gold Card with Postbank Black Card

Postbank has commenced the process of replacing the SASSA Gold Card with the new Black Card. The process is already on at Pick n Pay and Boxer outlets in Gauteng. In the process:

• Beneficiaries are required to produce a valid or temporary identity card (ID).
• They are required to produce their ID and SASSA proxy letter.
• Any beneficiary is eligible for the new card free of charge.

Beneficiaries who are seriously ill or bedridden will be given the service in their homes. The Black Card will have all the same privileges that were present in the Gold Card, including free replacement and safeguarding against unauthorized deductions. The former Gold Card will function until the new card is received.

SRD grant extended: A great relief

In addition to the Postbank announcement, another piece of welcome news is that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant has been extended to March 2025. The South African government had launched the grant to cushion the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, and it has acted as a lifeline for many poor citizens.

The government has allocated R34 billion for the extension of the scheme.

Eligibility Criteria for SRD Grant

Certain special eligibility criteria have been established for the beneficiaries who wish to receive the SRD grant:

• The applicant should be a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee.
• The applicant should be between 18 and 59 years old.
• The applicant should have a medical or functional assessment, which verifies the disability.
• It will be required to provide supporting documents like clinical information or referral form.
• The applicant and his/her spouse need to qualify the ‘Means Test’.
• If the applicant does not possess an identity card (ID) or birth certificate, other identification documents as prescribed by SASSA can also be accepted.

Conclusion

Beneficiaries do not have to worry about the expiration of the SASSA Gold Card. Postbank has guaranteed that there will be no disruption in the grant even if the card expires. Furthermore, the extension of the SRD grant and the launch of the new Black Card will bring about more amenities to the beneficiaries. This is a great relief for all SASSA beneficiaries as they can enjoy their grant without any concern.

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