The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially extended the deadline for the transition from gold SASSA cards to the new Postbank black cards.
Beneficiaries now have until May 31, 2025 to complete the switch and avoid losing access to their social grant payments.
This move comes as a relief to millions of grant recipients who faced logistical challenges in making the transition. With added time, SASSA encourages beneficiaries to upgrade their cards as soon as possible to ensure uninterrupted access to their funds.
Why Switch to the Postbank Black Card?
The transition is part of a broader initiative to modernize and secure social grant payments. The new Postbank black cards offer enhanced features such as:
- Biometric verification
- Improved fraud protection
- Ease of use at ATMs and retail outlets
The gold SASSA cards, which have been in use for years, will be fully deactivated after May 31, 2025.
Important Dates to Remember
Here’s what you need to know about the timeline:
- New Deadline for Card Switch: May 31, 2025
- Gold Card Validity: Remains active until May 31, 2025
- Deactivation Date: June 1, 2025 (gold cards will no longer work)
If you haven’t made the switch yet, this is your final chance to do so without affecting your grant payments.
Where to Get Your New Postbank Black Card
SASSA has made the process convenient and accessible by partnering with major retail outlets across South Africa. You can get your new card at:
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Usave
- Spar
To find your nearest card replacement point, simply dial *120*355# from your mobile phone.
Required Documents:
- Valid South African ID
- Or Temporary ID Document
The card replacement process is free, and no fees are required to obtain the new card.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New Deadline | May 31, 2025 |
| Old Card Deactivation | June 1, 2025 |
| Where to Get New Card | Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Spar |
| Required Documents | Valid SA ID or Temporary ID |
| Support Code | 120355# to find nearest collection point |
| Card Replacement Fee | Free |
With the new May 31, 2025 deadline in place, this is your final window to switch from the old gold SASSA card to the secure and modern Postbank black card. This transition is essential to ensure your social grant payments continue smoothly without interruption.
Avoid long queues and delays—make the switch now by visiting any approved retail outlet with your valid ID. Staying ahead of the deadline ensures you remain covered and in control of your grant access.
FAQs
Can I still use my gold SASSA card now?
Yes, you can continue using it until May 31, 2025. After that, it will be deactivated.
What happens if I don’t switch by the deadline?
You will not be able to receive or access your grant funds until you obtain the new Postbank black card.
Do I need to visit a Post Office to get my new card?
No. Post Office branches are not handling the card replacement. Visit the designated retail outlets instead.