In a major relief for social grant beneficiaries, Postbank has announced an extension allowing continued use of SASSA gold cards for two more months, covering April and May 2025. This decision comes after regulatory considerations, ensuring that beneficiaries who have yet to switch to the new Postbank Black cards will still be able to access their grants.
Beneficiaries can continue using their SASSA gold cards to withdraw cash at ATMs, make purchases at retail stores, and use point-of-sale (POS) machines for payments. The extension provides much-needed reprieve, giving beneficiaries additional time to replace their gold cards with the black cards.
Postbank has emphasized that it remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted grant payments, reassuring beneficiaries that all stakeholders are prioritizing their interests. The bank urges those who have not yet switched to use this extended period wisely and replace their cards as soon as possible.
Postbank has clarified that beneficiaries with gold cards should not attempt to withdraw their grants over the counter at Post Office branches. Over-the-counter cash payments will only be available for the following groups:
- Mzansi/Flexi card customers
- Asylum seekers
- Beneficiaries with lost or stolen cards
Anyone with an active SASSA gold card should continue using ATMs and retail payment channels rather than visiting Post Office branches.
SASSA gold cards will officially be phased out after May 2025. Beneficiaries who have not switched to a black card by this deadline will no longer be able to access their grants through any channel except with a black card. However, their grant money will remain secure in their account until they obtain a black card.
Postbank has assured beneficiaries that card replacement services are ongoing and have not stopped since the previously announced March 20, 2025, deadline. The replacement process remains simple, requiring only an RSA ID document, a temporary ID, or a driver’s license.
Beneficiaries can replace their gold cards at selected branches of major retailers, including:
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Usave
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Spar
To locate the nearest card replacement site, beneficiaries can dial 120355# on their mobile phones.
Postbank has increased the number of card replacement sites, especially in high-demand areas such as the Western Cape. In addition, Postbank and SASSA outreach teams will continue distributing black cards in remote areas to ensure that all beneficiaries are reached.
Postbank has also reassured gold card beneficiaries that black card issuance will continue until all eligible beneficiaries receive their new cards. There is no need to switch to other banks out of fear of missing out on a black card, as the grant payment system will continue operating smoothly.
While the extension is a welcome relief, beneficiaries are strongly encouraged to replace their gold cards as soon as possible. Delaying until the last minute may lead to long queues and potential processing delays.
Postbank remains dedicated to providing a seamless transition and ensuring that all social grant recipients receive their payments without disruptions. Beneficiaries should take advantage of the extended period to secure their black cards and continue accessing their grants with ease.
For more updates, stay tuned to Globe Post.
