In a joint statement with Postbank, SASSA assured beneficiaries that gold cards will be operational during the next grant payment cycle in March 2025. Postbank is currently working to replace SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards.
The continued use of gold cards in March 2025 follows SASSA’s announcement in February, extending the cards’ validity. However, all gold cards will expire on 20 March 2025.
Beneficiaries can use their gold cards for all transactions, including ATM withdrawals, balance inquiries, statement printing, and retail purchases or cash withdrawals at tills until the expiry date.
Gold Cards Set to Expire After 20 March 2025
SASSA has confirmed that from 5 PM on 20 March 2025, gold cards will no longer be active. Beneficiaries have been warned that any remaining funds on these cards will be inaccessible.
Retailers will not accept gold cards for transactions, and any attempts to use them will result in automatic declines. ATMs will also reject the cards, and there is a risk they may be swallowed when inserted.
Although beneficiaries will continue receiving their social grants, they will need to collect payments at a Postbank branch.
Postbank Assures Beneficiaries of Secure Funds
Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe reassured beneficiaries that their grant funds will remain secure in a dedicated Postbank account.
Once gold cards are deactivated, any remaining balances and future grant payments will be stored in beneficiaries’ Postbank grant accounts. These funds will be accessible via alternative payment methods or the new Postbank black cards.
Postbank has expanded its black card distribution network, activating 237 additional Spar retail outlets. The agency is also increasing teller numbers at existing sites, extending operating hours to include Saturdays and later closing times. SASSA staff will be deployed to assist at distribution points.
How to Get a New SASSA Card
Postbank has provided the following steps for beneficiaries to locate a card replacement centre:
Step 1: Dial 120355#
Step 2: Select option 1
Step 3: Choose your province
After completing these steps, beneficiaries will receive a list of locations where new cards are issued.
When collecting a new SASSA card, bring your ID or a temporary ID if the original is lost. If collecting on behalf of someone else, present an official SASSA proxy letter. Asylum seeker grant beneficiaries must provide an official SASSA approval letter.
A valid ID or temporary ID is required to receive the Postbank black card. Those without an ID should obtain a temporary one before collecting their new card.
Sassa Grant Dates For March 2025
- Old Age Grant - 4 March
- Disability Grant - 5 March
- Child Grant - 6 March
"Sassa and Postbank assure beneficiaries and the public that all social grants will be paid to every grant beneficiary, even those that may miss the deadline to replace their cards. Sassa and Postbank are committed to ensuring that there are no interruptions to the payments of grants."
