Africazine:
South Africa’s social security beneficiaries face a critical deadline to switch their payment cards.
A total of 70,000 beneficiaries have yet to collect their new Postbank black cards as the deadline to switch from the gold card approaches. The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has reassured beneficiaries that they can still collect their new cards after the deadline, but they will no longer be able to use the gold card.
70,000 Beneficiaries Yet to Collect New Cards
The transition from the Sassa gold card to the Postbank black card is crucial for beneficiaries to continue accessing their grants. Postbank’s chief commercial officer, Thami Cele, emphasized that the gold card is no longer operational. Beneficiaries must collect their new cards to ensure uninterrupted access to their funds.
Sassa has urged beneficiaries to act quickly and collect their black cards before their grants are paid in September. The agency reassured them that there is no need to re-register with Sassa after collecting the new card, as it will work instantly.
Minister Reassures Beneficiaries Amid Transition
Minister of Social Development Dina Pule has provided assurances that the transition will not disrupt grant payments. She stated that beneficiaries will continue to receive their grants on time, provided they switch to the new black card. The Department of Social Development, Sassa, Postbank, and the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies are collaborating to facilitate a smooth migration process.
Pule emphasized that grant payments will be deposited directly into beneficiaries’ chosen bank accounts, whether with Postbank or other commercial banks. Beneficiaries can withdraw their funds using their bank cards at participating outlets, ensuring continued access to their financial support.
Next Steps for Beneficiaries
- Collect the Postbank black card at designated sites.
- Ensure to switch before the next grant payment in September.
- Use a valid South African ID or temporary ID for card collection.
Beneficiaries must act swiftly to secure their financial support with the new Postbank black card.
