Zuko Komisa

Today, 20 March 2025, marks the deadline for social grant beneficiaries to switch from their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards to the new Postbank black cards.
According to reports, the gold cards will be deactivated, potentially disrupting access to funds for those who have not made the transition.
Beneficiaries who fail to replace their gold cards will be unable to conduct any transactions, even with existing account balances.
This deactivation is a critical step in the ongoing modernisation of the SASSA payment system.
While the deadline has passed, Postbank has confirmed that it will continue to replace gold cards with new black cards at all designated card replacement sites. The initial deadline, previously set for 28 February 2025, was extended to allow more time for beneficiaries to complete the switch.
The new Postbank black cards are readily available at major retailers, including Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer stores. Beneficiaries must present a valid South African ID or a temporary ID to obtain their new card.
To assist beneficiaries in locating the nearest card replacement site, Postbank has introduced a convenient cellphone service:
- Dial 120355#
- Reply with “1” to proceed.
- Reply with the number corresponding to your province.
This service aims to simplify the process and ensure that all beneficiaries can access their new cards. Postbank encourages all remaining gold card holders to take advantage of this ongoing replacement service to avoid any further disruptions in receiving their social grants.
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