New SASSA Black Cards Will Still Be Issued After Deadline

New SASSA Black Cards Will Still Be Issued After Deadline. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank have assured social grant beneficiaries that the new SASSA black cards will still be issued even after the 20 March deadline. As the deadline nears, beneficiaries are urged to replace their SASSA gold cards to ensure uninterrupted access to their social grants.

SASSA Gold Card Expiry and Replacement Process

Beneficiaries who currently receive their grants through the SASSA gold card should take note that these cards will no longer be functional after 20 March 2025. To facilitate a smooth transition, Postbank and SASSA have been actively replacing expired cards with new black cards, which are designed to enhance security and streamline grant payments.

According to Postbank’s CEO, Nikki Mbengashe, more than 1.1 million beneficiaries have successfully replaced their gold cards with the new black cards. With approximately 2.6 million beneficiaries using Postbank as their payment method, around 50% of cardholders have already transitioned to the new system.

Why Are SASSA Gold Cards Being Replaced?

The replacement of SASSA gold cards is necessary due to their expiration and the need for enhanced security features. The introduction of the new black card ensures safer transactions and prevents fraud, safeguarding the funds of millions of South Africans who rely on SASSA grant payments every month.

• Enhanced security for transactions
• No changes to account numbers funds will still be deposited into existing accounts
• No replacement fees beneficiaries only need to bring their South African ID
• Immediate activation as soon as the black card is issued, it will be functional

What Happens After the 20 March Deadline?

Beneficiaries who fail to replace their SASSA gold cards before 20 March will still be able to obtain a new SASSA black card after the deadline. However, they are strongly advised to complete the process as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience.

Postbank has confirmed that they are expanding their network of replacement sites to ease the transition. In addition to Post Offices, beneficiaries will be able to replace their cards at selected retailers such as Checkers, Pick n Pay, Boxer, USave, and Spar stores.

To find the nearest SASSA card replacement site, beneficiaries can dial *120*355# on their mobile phones, and the closest location will be displayed.

SASSA Grant Payments for April 2025

Despite the transition process, SASSA grant payments for April 2025 will proceed as scheduled between 3 April and 5 April. Beneficiaries without the new SASSA black card by this time can still collect their grants at Post Offices, provided they bring along their valid South African ID.

Ensuring Continued Access to SASSA Grants

SASSA and Postbank have reassured grant recipients that their social grants will remain safe and accessible. Any funds deposited into beneficiaries’ accounts will stay there until withdrawn, ensuring that only the rightful recipients can access their money.

Additionally, SASSA’s Acting CEO, Themba Matlou, has emphasized that over 19 million social grants are disbursed monthly, with 15% of these payments facilitated through Postbank. To reduce long queues and delays, SASSA and Postbank are deploying more personnel and increasing service points for SASSA card replacements nationwide.

Home Visits for Those Unable to Collect Their Cards

For elderly or disabled beneficiaries who are unable to collect their new SASSA card in person, arrangements can be made for home visits. To request assistance, beneficiaries should contact the SASSA call centre and coordinate a home visit for card issuance.

Conclusion

With the 20 March 2025 deadline fast approaching, beneficiaries are strongly urged to replace their SASSA gold cards to prevent any disruption in accessing their SASSA grant payments. The transition to the new black card is part of an ongoing effort to modernize the grant payment system, making it more secure and efficient for all South Africans.