Beneficiaries need to change their Gold Cards into the new Postbank Black Cards by saying that SASSA Gold Cards will be invalid after 28 February 2025. The South African Social Security Agency, together with the Postbank, announced that all SASSA Gold Cards will become invalid after 28 February 2025 and urged beneficiaries to replace their Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards on or before this date to allow them uninterrupted access to the social grants.
Why Are SASSA Gold Cards Being Replaced?
The old Gold cards are to be changed to Black cards as an initiative by Post Bank towards modernizing and securing the grant payment system. The aim is to restore credibility and security to the system after going through controversies such as fraud and system collapses.
Consequences of Not Replacing Your Gold Card
Beneficiaries will meet great disruptions if they do not replace their Gold Cards by 28 February 2025. The SASSA Gold Cards will cease to work in ATMs, shops, and for any transactions, including balance inquiries and retail purchases. Hence, no access to social grants through these cards.
Steps to Follow In Replacing Your SASSA Gold Card
In ensuring a seamless Postbank Black Card transition, you will need to do the following:
Locate a Card Replacement Site
Proceed to dedicated Postbank sites for card replacement, mainly located in major retailers like Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Boxer, and Pick n-Pay.
Alternatively, on your cellphone, dial 120218*3#; Press 1 to continue and enter the respective province number.
Bring Necessary Identification
Take a valid South African ID or a temporary ID document with you. Without these, you will not get your card.
Collect Your Postbank Black Card
The replacement will be free of charge. The new card works immediately upon issue-no waiting period.
Benefits of Postbank Black Card
The Postbank Black Card has many benefits. It works on all National Payment System channels, including ATMs and retail point-of-sale machines.
There are advantages of cost savings, too. Every user is allowed one free card replacement per year, three free in-store withdrawals a month, and one free counter-stamped statement a month.
Avoidance of Scams and Fraud
Beneficiaries should not let their guard down during this transition. Give your ID only to official representatives replacing your new card. Do not accept any cards handed to you by unofficial representatives or people claiming to be working for the Postbank or SASSA.
Extended Deadline
With a view to ensuring smooth transition, the deadline for replacing SASSA Gold Cards has been extended to 20 March 2025. Beneficiaries are advised to switch their cards before this date to avoid inconveniences.
Contact Information for Assistance
For any queries or assistance, beneficiaries may contact Postbank Customer Care on 0800 53 54 55 or SASSA Customer Care at 0800 6010 11.