The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has formally extended the cut-off date for the conversion of the gold SASSA cards to the new Postbank black cards. The beneficiaries have until May 31, 2025, to convert and stand to lose access to their social grant payment.
This move is a respite to millions of grant recipients who have been facing logistical challenges bringing about the change. With the additional time, SASSA encourages beneficiaries to update their cards at the soonest possible time to prevent any disruption to their access to their funds.
Why Make the Change to the Postbank Black Card?
The switch is in harmony with a broad attempt to bring modernization and secure payment of social grants. The new black Postbank cards have further functionalities of:
- Biometric identification
- Improved protection from fraud
- Easy use at retailers and ATMs
The gold SASSA cards which have been active for years will be suspended totally after May 31, 2025.
Dates You Must Not Forget
Here is what you need to remember in terms of the schedule:
- New Card Switch Deadline: May 31, 2025
- Validity of Gold Card: Valid up to May 31, 2025
- Date of Deactivation: June 1, 2025 (Gold cards will not be operational.)
In case you have not switched over yet, this is your last chance to switch without affecting your grant payments.
Where to Get Your New Postbank Black Card
SASSA has facilitated the process by going into partnership with major retail stores across South Africa. You can get your new card at:
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- ShopRite
- Checkers
- You save
- Spar
To receive your closest point of replacement card, simply dial 120355# on your mobile.
Documents Needed:
- Valid South African ID
- Or Temporary ID Document
The card replacement is free of charge, and there are no fees to receive the new card.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New Deadline | May 31, 2025 |
| Old Card Deactivation | June 1, 2025 |
| Where to Get New Card | Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Spar |
| Required Documents | Valid SA ID or Temporary ID |
| Support Code | 120355# to find nearest collection point |
| Card Replacement Fee | Free |
With the new May 31, 2025 deadline imposed, this is your final chance to switch from the previous gold SASSA card to the safe and current Postbank black card. The switch is imperative to the continuation of your social grant payments uninterrupted.
Beat the crowds and delays. Switch now by going to any authorized retail store with your ID. Being ahead of the deadline means you remain secured and in control of your grant access.
FAQ’s
Q. What should beneficiaries do before the new deadline?
A. Beneficiaries need to go to the identified banks or SASSA branches to change to the new method of payment by May 31.
Q. Who will be impacted by the Postbank card changeover extension?
A. All the beneficiaries of SASSA grants with Postbank cards who have to switch over to the new system.
Q. How do beneficiaries pick up their new Postbank cards?
A. Beneficiaries can obtain new cards at specified SASSA offices, Postbank branches, or retail outlets.
