Social grant beneficiaries in South Africa are gearing up for an exciting change! Postbank has officially launched the New Black SASSA Cards, replacing the familiar SASSA gold cards that millions rely on to receive their grants. This switch, which started in Gauteng, is part of a significant upgrade aimed at improving security, efficiency, and ease of use in social grant payments. For beneficiaries, the process of switching to the New Black SASSA Cards is straightforward, and Postbank is making every effort to ensure a smooth transition.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about switching from the gold SASSA card to the New Black SASSA Cards. We’ll go over where you can collect the new card, what documents are needed, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Why the Switch to New Black SASSA Cards?
The introduction of the New Black SASSA Cards by Postbank is part of a strategy to provide beneficiaries with a more secure and reliable payment method. While the SASSA gold card has served beneficiaries well, issues with unauthorized transactions and technical problems have prompted Postbank to introduce the updated New Black SASSA Cards.
These new cards offer several improved security features, providing grant recipients with added protection against fraud or unauthorized deductions.
Related: SASSA Grant Payment Dates For The Rest of The Year – 2024
Why Make the Switch?
Switching to the New Black SASSA Cards offers several advantages that make it a wise choice for beneficiaries. Here’s a quick look at some of the benefits:
- Enhanced Security: With its updated security features, the New Black SASSA Cards reduce the risk of fraud or unauthorized transactions, keeping your money safe.
- Improved Reliability: The new card is part of a revamped system designed to reduce technical issues and ensure timely, secure payments.
- Unchanged Benefits: Free withdrawals, free first replacements, and other perks will continue with the black card, making it a smooth transition without sacrificing benefits.
What Remains the Same?
For many, a big concern when switching to the New Black SASSA Cards is whether there will be changes to the grants or benefits they currently enjoy. Postbank has reassured SASSA beneficiaries that all the benefits of the gold card will remain intact with the New Black SASSA Cards, including:
- Free First Card Replacement: Your first replacement of the black card is free of charge.
- Three Free Withdrawals per Month in Stores: Beneficiaries can still withdraw their grant payments three times a month without any additional fees.
- One Free Monthly Statement Over the Counter: Beneficiaries can collect a free statement at the counter once a month to track their transactions.
- Protection Against Unauthorized Deductions: The New Black SASSA Cards come with enhanced security, protecting against unauthorized deductions that some beneficiaries experienced with the gold card.
Where and How to Collect Your New Black SASSA Cards
To find a location where you can replace your SASSA gold card with the new black Postbank card, follow these steps:
- Dial
*120*218*3#
on your mobile phone. - Select Option 1 from the menu.
- Choose Your Province from the list provided.
After these steps, you will receive a list of locations in your selected province that are currently issuing the new black SASSA cards.
This convenient USSD code allows beneficiaries to quickly find a nearby replacement site without needing internet access.
Important Note: The switch to the New Black SASSA Cards is entirely free, and no fees will be charged during the collection process.
What Do You Need to Bring?
The card collection process is straightforward. To receive the New Black SASSA Cards, SASSA beneficiaries simply need to bring:
- A Valid ID or Temporary ID: For beneficiaries who may have misplaced their ID, it’s essential to obtain a temporary ID to collect the New Black SASSA Cards.
If You Are Collecting on Behalf of Someone Else:
- Your ID and the SASSA Proxy Letter: If you are an authorized person collecting the grant on behalf of someone else, you will need to bring your own ID and the official SASSA proxy letter that states you have been nominated as that person’s proxy. The beneficiary does not need to be present for the collection.
Note for Asylum Seekers: Beneficiaries who are asylum seekers need to bring their official SASSA approval letter to be issued the New Black SASSA Cards.
What if You’re Sick or Bedridden?
Postbank has developed a special program to accommodate sick and bedridden beneficiaries who may find it challenging to travel to a distribution point. For this group of beneficiaries, Postbank is arranging home visits, allowing them to receive their New Black SASSA Cards without leaving their homes. Details on how to schedule a home visit will be announced shortly, so those in need of this service should stay updated for more information.
What About the Old SASSA Gold Card?
If you’re still using your SASSA gold card, you don’t have to worry about any immediate disruptions. Postbank has confirmed that all gold cards will continue to work for grant collections until each card is replaced by a New Black SASSA Card. This gradual replacement process allows beneficiaries time to collect their new cards without affecting their ability to access grants in the meantime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I be charged for the New Black SASSA Cards?
A: No, collecting the black card is completely free, and there are no hidden costs associated with making the switch.
Q: Will my grant amount change with the New Black SASSA Cards?
A: No, the amount you receive for your grant will not change when you switch to the black card. The only change is the physical card itself.
Q: Can I still use my gold card until I get the New Black SASSA Cards?
A: Yes, the SASSA gold card will continue to work until each beneficiary has been issued a black card. This ensures that everyone will still have access to their funds.
Q: What should I do if I lose my New Black SASSA Card?
A: If you lose your black card, you are eligible for a free first replacement. Further replacements may come with a charge, so it’s a good idea to keep your card in a safe place.
Q: Can asylum seekers also get the New Black SASSA Cards?
A: Yes, asylum seekers who receive SASSA grants can receive the black card. They’ll need to bring their official SASSA approval letter to the distribution point.
Q: What if I am bedridden or too sick to collect my New Black SASSA Cards in person?
A: Sick and bedridden beneficiaries can schedule a home visit through a special Postbank program. Details on this process will be shared soon, so keep an eye out for updates.
Related: Top 10 Tips to Stay Safe When Collecting Your SASSA Social Grant in South Africa
The rollout of the New Black SASSA Cards is a significant development in the realm of social grant payments. By switching from the SASSA gold card to the black card, beneficiaries can enjoy the same benefits with added security and ease of access. If you’re a SASSA beneficiary in Gauteng, make sure to visit your nearest Pick n Pay or Boxer store to pick up your new black card and continue enjoying a reliable, protected grant system.
Switching is easy, free, and accessible to everyone, so make the change today for a safer and more dependable grant experience.
Got Questions?
- Contact the SASSA Toll-Free Call Centre on 0800 60 10 11;
- Contact the SASSA head office on 012 400 2322;
- E-mail SASSA head office at: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za; or
- Explore a list of SASSA offices across the country HERE.