SASSA grant recipients who have yet to transition to the new black PostBank card can still access their funds at the South African Post Office or withdraw cash at retail till points until May.
However, the deadline for switching to the new card has passed, and there are important guidelines to follow to avoid disruptions in grant collection.
Transition Deadline and Options for Grant Collection
SASSA extended the deadline for recipients to switch to the new black PostBank card, with the new deadline being last Thursday, after originally setting it for the end of February.
While those who missed the deadline are encouraged to transition to the new card, they will still be able to collect their grants at the Post Office or through retailers’ till points in April and May.
Old Gold Cards Set to Be Deactivated
SASSA has confirmed that the old gold cards will soon be deactivated.
Recipients who continue to use their outdated gold SASSA cards may face issues when trying to make transactions, including ATM withdrawals and purchases at retailers.
It is highly advised to avoid using the old cards, as they might be rejected by ATMs or swallowed by machines at retail points.
SASSA’s Advice to Recipients
SASSA is urging those who have not yet transitioned to the new black PostBank card to act quickly and visit PostBank locations to complete their registration.
Thami Cele, the Chief Commercial Executive at PostBank, reassured recipients that they would still have access to their funds at the Post Office and retail till points during the transition period.
“If you haven’t had the chance to get your PostBank black card, there’s no need to panic. You can still access your funds at the Post Office by showing your ID,” said Thami Cele in a statement to SABC News.
Important Information for SASSA Recipients
How to Access Your Funds During the Transition
As a temporary measure, recipients who have not yet switched to the new PostBank black card can still access their SASSA grants through:
- South African Post Offices: Grants can be collected as usual by presenting your ID.
- Retail Till Points: You can withdraw cash from participating retailers during April and May.
What SASSA and PostBank Recommend
SASSA recommends all beneficiaries to avoid using old cards at ATMs or retailers as these may either be swallowed by ATMs or rejected.
Instead, they should take the necessary steps to collect their new black PostBank card as soon as possible to avoid any disruptions after May.
Key Dates and Actions for SASSA Recipients
Key Dates and Actions for SASSA Recipients
| Event | Action Required | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Switch to New PostBank Black Card | Visit PostBank site for new card | Last Thursday (extension) |
| Collect Grants from the Post Office | Continue as usual with your ID | April-May 2024 |
| Use Old Gold Cards at Retailers or ATMs | Avoid using the old gold SASSA card at ATMs/retailers | Immediate – after May 2024 |
For SASSA recipients who haven’t yet made the switch to the new black PostBank card, there is still time to access grants at the Post Office and retail till points during April and May.
However, with the old gold cards being deactivated soon, it is crucial to act fast and collect the new card to avoid any disruptions. Follow SASSA’s advice and visit PostBank locations to ensure a smooth transition before June.
FAQs
What should I do if I haven’t received my PostBank black card?
If you haven’t received the new PostBank black card, you can still access your funds at the South African Post Office by showing your ID until May. It is recommended to get your new card as soon as possible to avoid disruptions.
Can I continue using my old gold SASSA card?
No, it is advised to stop using the old gold SASSA cards at ATMs or retailers as they will likely be rejected or swallowed by ATMs. Make sure to collect your black PostBank card to continue accessing your funds without issues.
How long can I use the old gold card?
You can use the gold SASSA card until May, but after that, it will be deactivated. You must switch to the black PostBank card to avoid any disruptions in accessing your grants.