New account? Moved towns? Tired of the ATM line?
Changing your SASSA payment method online could save you time, stress, and money. Here’s how to do it—and what to expect.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of how SASSA payment methods work, how to change your payment method online, and other relevant details you should know about SASSA payments.
What Are the Available SASSA Payment Methods?
Before discussing how to change your payment method, it is essential to understand the various payment methods SASSA provides. These methods aim to ensure that social grant recipients receive their payments conveniently and securely. As of 2025, SASSA offers the following payment methods:
Cash Payments at Retailers
Recipients can collect their grants in cash at approved retailers and cash pay points across South Africa. This payment method is often used by people who don’t have access to a bank account or prefer not to use a bank card. The SASSA Gold Card, which is issued to recipients, can also be used for this payment method.
Bank Payments
For those who have a bank account, SASSA can deposit the grant directly into their accounts. This method is often the most convenient, as it eliminates the need to travel to cash pay points.
Post Office Payments
SASSA recipients can also choose to collect their payments from the South African Post Office (SAPO). These payments are made to a designated post office where recipients can withdraw their grant.
Mobile Payments
With mobile payments becoming increasingly popular, SASSA allows for grants to be paid directly to mobile wallets such as eWallet or Cash Send. This method is ideal for individuals who don’t have access to a bank or prefer to keep their funds in a mobile account.
Each of these options has advantages and disadvantages, and the best payment method largely depends on the recipient’s individual circumstances.
Can I Change My SASSA Payment Method Online?
Yes, it is possible to change your SASSA payment method online. However, this can only be done in certain circumstances and through specific channels. The process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that recipients can update their information quickly without needing to visit a SASSA office.
SASSA has made online changes more accessible through their official platforms, which include the website and the SASSA mobile application. Here are the steps to change your SASSA payment method online:
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Payment Method
1. Visit the SASSA Website
To begin the process of changing your payment method, you will need to visit the official SASSA website. The link to the official website is: https://www.sassa.gov.za. On the website, navigate to the “Grants” section where you’ll find options related to your grant details.
2. Create or Log in to Your SASSA Profile
You will need to create an online profile if you do not have one yet. This profile will allow you to manage your grant, update personal details, and change your payment method. To create a profile, click on the “Apply for a Grant” or “Change Details” option and follow the on-screen instructions.
If you already have a profile, simply log in using your credentials. If you’ve forgotten your login details, there are recovery options available.
3. Select the “Change Payment Method” Option
Once you’re logged in to your profile, locate the section dedicated to updating your payment preferences. This might be under “Account Settings” or “Payment Information.” You should see an option to “Change Payment Method.”
4. Choose Your New Payment Method
You will be presented with a list of available payment methods, including bank transfer, retail collection, mobile wallet, and post office. Select the option that best suits your needs. If you choose bank payments, you’ll need to input your bank account details. For mobile wallet or retail collection, ensure that you provide the required information.
5. Confirm the Changes
After selecting your new payment method, you will be prompted to confirm the details. Double-check that the information is accurate to avoid delays in receiving your payment.
Once confirmed, your new payment method will be updated in the system, and you will receive an email or SMS confirming the change. Be sure to keep this confirmation for your records.
6. Wait for the Update to Take Effect
SASSA may take a few days to process your payment method change, so it’s important to check that the new method is reflected when the next payment is due. If you do not receive a payment through the updated method, contact SASSA immediately.
What if I Can’t Change My Payment Method Online?
While SASSA strives to make the process of changing payment methods as easy as possible, not all recipients may be able to complete the process online. There are a few reasons this might happen:
Technical Issues:
If the website or app is not working properly, you may not be able to update your payment method online. In such cases, it’s advisable to try again later or contact SASSA for assistance.Old Systems and Profiles:
Some recipients may still be using older systems or profiles that are not yet compatible with online updates. In such cases, contacting your nearest SASSA office is recommended.No Internet Access:
For those who don’t have reliable internet access, changing the payment method online may not be feasible. In this case, you can either visit the nearest SASSA office or use the call center for assistance.
Related: Can You Still Receive SASSA Payments Without Your SIM Card?
Other Ways to Change Your Payment Method
If you cannot change your payment method online, there are still other ways to update your payment preferences:
Visit a SASSA Office:
If online options aren’t available or convenient for you, you can visit your local SASSA office to make the change. Bring your identification and any other necessary documentation.Call the SASSA Call Center:
The SASSA call center is another option for changing your payment method. You can reach them at the toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11. Have your grant details on hand when calling.Visit a Post Office or Retailer:
If you are currently receiving your grant via a post office or retailer, visit them to update your payment preferences.
Important Considerations When Changing Your Payment Method
While changing your payment method can be a convenient way to manage your grant, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Update Your Information Promptly: Make sure that you update your payment information well in advance of the next payment date to avoid delays.
Verify Your New Payment Method: Always double-check the payment method details you enter to ensure accuracy.
Be Aware of Fees: Depending on the payment method you choose, there may be associated fees (e.g., fees for withdrawing funds from a mobile wallet or retailer).
Ensure Your Contact Information is Correct: If you change your payment method, SASSA may send you confirmation or updates via SMS or email. Ensure your contact details are correct.
Changing your SASSA payment method online is possible and relatively easy to do, provided you have internet access and a registered online profile. Whether you prefer to receive your grant via a bank transfer, a mobile wallet, or a retailer, SASSA offers multiple options to cater to your needs. Make sure to follow the steps outlined above and take note of the necessary information to ensure that your grant is paid promptly and securely.
If you encounter any issues or cannot access the online portal, SASSA offers alternative methods, such as visiting a local office or calling their customer service.
