Thousands of South African social grant recipients faced challenges renewing their SASSA/Postbank gold cards due to the closure of multiple post offices.
However, a recent announcement by the Payment Association of South Africa (Pasa) has brought relief to these beneficiaries.
The validity of expired Postbank gold cards has been extended until the end of the year, allowing recipients to continue using their expired cards for withdrawals and purchases at ATMs and merchant Point of Sale (POS) terminals.
In this article, we will explore the details of this extension and the options available to grant recipients.
The Extension of Card Validity
In a statement made by Postbank spokesperson Dr Bongani Diako, it was confirmed that acquiring banks have been notified to accept expired Postbank gold cards.
This decision comes as great news for social grant recipients who rely on these funds for their day-to-day living.
The extension is aimed at providing much-needed relief to the beneficiaries who faced difficulties in renewing their cards.
According to the directive of the South African Reserve Bank, Postbank is committed to replacing the expired cards before the end of December 2023.
Beneficiaries will be informed about the card replacement program in the coming weeks, ensuring a smooth transition to the new cards.
Continued Access to Social Grants
Until the replacement cards are issued, social grant recipients can enjoy uninterrupted access to their funds using the expired Postbank gold cards.
These cards can be used across various National Payments System points, including ATMs, POS terminals, post office branches, and physical cash payment points.
Additionally, an alternative option for accessing social grants has been introduced by Postbank – the cardless withdrawal method.
This method allows beneficiaries to withdraw their grants at participating retailers such as Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Usave, Checkers, and OK without the need for a physical card.
Cardless Withdrawal Process
The cardless withdrawal process is straightforward and offers a convenient way for grant recipients to access their funds without any bank charges for the first three transactions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the cardless withdrawal option:
- Step 1: Take your cellphone device, ID number, and SASSA/Postbank Gold Card PIN.
- Step 2: Go to any of the participating retailers, including Checkers, Shoprite, OK, Pick n Pay, Usave, Boxer, and others.
- Step 3: At the retailer, you will be asked to capture your ID number and cellphone number to validate your identity as the actual beneficiary.
- Step 4: A confirmation message (USSD) will be sent to the phone number you provided.
- Step 5: You will be asked to punch in your PIN (the same PIN you use to withdraw at ATMs).
- Step 6: The cashier will then give you your money, and the transaction is complete.
Extending SASSA/Postbank Gold Cards Validity
The extension of the validity of expired SASSA/Postbank gold cards until the end of 2023 is a significant relief for social grant beneficiaries in South Africa.
The Payment Association of South Africa’s decision ensures that thousands of individuals can continue to access their funds through ATMs and POS terminals without the need to collect new cards or switch to other banks.
Furthermore, the introduction of the cardless withdrawal option provides added convenience to grant recipients, allowing them to withdraw funds at participating retailers without incurring any bank charges.
The combination of these measures aims to ease the financial burden on beneficiaries and enhance their overall grant withdrawal experience.
As we move forward, it is essential for social grant recipients to stay informed about the card replacement program and any further updates from SASSA and Postbank.
By being aware of the available options and procedures, beneficiaries can continue to manage their finances effectively and make the most of their social grants.
For any additional assistance or queries regarding social grants, individuals can reach out to SASSA Customer Care at 0800 60 10 11 or GrantsEnquiries@sassa.gov.za.
Additionally, Postbank offers support through Customer Care at 0800 53 54 55 and WhatsApp at 063 359 6061, as well as postbank.enquiries@postbank.co.za for email inquiries.
Remember, you can withdraw up to a maximum of R3000 per transaction.
Stay updated with the latest information and access your social grants with ease until the end of the year, ensuring financial security and peace of mind