The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) supports millions of South Africans by distributing social grants for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities, which have always been distributed using the SASSA Gold Card. Now, to improve the efficiency and security of social grant payments, Postbank has introduced a new plan to replace the current SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards.
This initiative, starting first in Gauteng, represents a key effort to modernize the payment system for millions of social grant recipients throughout South Africa. The transition is part of an ongoing effort to provide more secure and dependable services while also addressing common issues faced by beneficiaries, such as unauthorized deductions and difficulties in collecting grants.
The new black cards include advanced security features to prevent fraud and protect the funds of vulnerable beneficiaries. Along with enhanced security, these cards offer additional benefits to help manage grants more effectively. Beneficiaries should stay informed about the transition process, as specific steps must be followed to receive the new card. Understanding these details will ensure a smooth switch from the Gold Card to the Black Card without any disruption to grant access.
Launch and Distribution Sites of Postbank Black Cards
The replacement process will begin in selected areas of Gauteng, including major urban centres and townships, with a focus on ensuring accessibility and convenience for all recipients. Postbank has chosen 21 Pick ‘n Pay and Boxer stores as initial collection points to streamline the distribution of the new black cards. Key areas where beneficiaries can collect their new cards include:
- Soweto: Baragwanath, Maponya Mall, and Dobsonville.
- Tembisa: Tembisa Mall, Boulders Midrand.
- Other Locations: Orange Farm, Benoni (Lakeside Mall), Alexandra (Alex Mall), Tshepisong, Alberton, Johannesburg (Noord St), Pretoria CBD (Station Square), East Rand Mall, Bedfordview, Key West, Norwood, and Southgate.
For residents in Lenasia and nearby areas, the collection points are set at Trade Route City Mall’s Pick ‘n Pay and Boxer stores. Beneficiaries can check nearby collection sites by dialling the USSD code 120218*3#. Additional collection sites in Gauteng will be announced soon.
GP! Jozi, Pitori and surrounds!
You can make your way to these stores (see posters) to be issued with the new Postbank Black Card.
Remember to bring:
1. ID
2. A proxy if you collect a grant on someone’s behalf
3. An approval letter from SASSA if you are an asylum seeker.See… pic.twitter.com/4m4Y93s9Xg
— Postbank_SOC_Ltd (@Postbank_ZA) September 19, 2024
Requirements to Collect Postbank Black Card
To collect the new Postbank black cards, SASSA grant recipients need to bring the following:
- A valid ID or a temporary ID document.
- Those collecting grants on behalf of others should carry their ID and an official SASSA proxy letter, which authorizes them to act on behalf of the recipient. The primary beneficiary does not need to be present during the collection.
For asylum seekers receiving grants, an official approval letter from SASSA is required.
Special Provisions for Sick and Bedridden Beneficiaries
Postbank has developed a special program to assist sick and bedridden beneficiaries in obtaining their new cards. Home visits will be arranged to ensure that these individuals receive their black cards without visiting a distribution site. Details on how to schedule these visits will be provided in the coming weeks.
Benefits of the New Postbank Black Cards
The introduction of the Postbank Black Card brings several benefits to social grant beneficiaries, making it a substantial upgrade from the previous SASSA Gold Card. These benefits include:
- Free First Card Replacement: Beneficiaries can receive their first replacement card free of charge.
- Three Free Withdrawals in Stores: Beneficiaries can make up to three free withdrawals or purchases each month at participating retailers without any hidden fees.
- One Free Monthly Statement: A free statement will be available once a month at the counter.
- No Unauthorized Deductions: The new cards are designed to prevent any unauthorized deductions from beneficiaries’ accounts.
- Improved Securite: The new card is equipped with advanced security features aimed at reducing the risk of fraud and unauthorized transactions. This upgrade ensures that beneficiaries’ funds are more secure.
- Easy Replacement Process: Replacing the old SASSA Gold Card is straightforward. Beneficiaries need to bring a valid ID or temporary ID to designated collection points to receive their new Postbank Black Card.
Transition Process and Gold Card Validity
It is important to note that existing SASSA gold cards will remain valid and functional until they are replaced. Beneficiaries should not worry about any interruptions in their grant payments during this transition period the distribution progresses, Postbank will continue to update the public with more details about the availability and distribution of the new black cards in other regions.
Important Points
- Beneficiaries do not need to switch to the Postbank Black Card right away unless they receive specific instructions from Postbank. The SASSA Gold Card will remain valid until the end of 2024.
- Beneficiaries should be cautious of scams during this transition. Only Postbank is authorized to issue the replacement cards. Any unsolicited requests to switch to a different card or bank should be ignored. Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately.
- To collect the Postbank Black Card, beneficiaries must present a valid ID at the designated collection points. If a representative is collecting on behalf of a beneficiary, they must provide a SASSA proxy letter.