The Postbank SASSA partnership continues to guide beneficiaries through the transition from SASSA Gold Cards to the new Postbank Black Cards.
While the migration deadline was set for 28 February 2025, Postbank and SASSA have confirmed that grant payments remain uninterrupted, even as the service agreement between the two institutions officially ended in September 2025.
Postbank SASSA
Replacement of SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards
From September 2024, Postbank began replacing SASSA Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards. Beneficiaries were required to complete this migration before 28 February 2025. After this deadline, Gold Cards were disabled for:
- Cash withdrawals at ATMs and retailers.
- Retail purchases.
- Balance enquiries and statement printing.
Postbank Black Cards remain valid for all National Payment System channels, including ATMs, retailer point-of-sale machines, and any platform that accepts bank cards.
Benefits of the Postbank Black Card
The Postbank Black Card provides enhanced security and convenience while maintaining key benefits beneficiaries received with Gold Cards:
- One free card replacement per year.
- Three free in-store withdrawals per month.
- One free monthly statement over the counter.
These features align with SASSA and Postbank’s mandate to improve financial inclusion and protect beneficiaries.
Card Collection and Documentation
To receive a Postbank Black Card, beneficiaries only needed to present:
- A valid South African ID, or
- A temporary ID.
No fees were charged for replacing the card. Postbank ensured nationwide access by making card collection available at retailers such as Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Boxer, and selected Pick n Pay stores.
How to Locate Card Replacement Sites
Postbank introduced a simple mobile system to help beneficiaries find the nearest replacement site:
- Dial *120*218*3#
- Reply with option 1 to continue.
- Select the number for your province.
This tool allowed beneficiaries to replace their cards without confusion or delays.
End of Postbank–SASSA Service Agreement
In September 2025, SASSA ended its service agreement with Postbank. Despite this change:
- Social grant payments are not affected.
- Beneficiaries can still access grants, but payments are now deposited directly into their chosen bank accounts.
- For issues related to Postbank accounts, beneficiaries should contact Postbank customer care at 0800 53 54 55.
Security Advisory
SASSA and Postbank urge beneficiaries to protect their personal details and avoid fraudulent schemes. Only authorized Postbank officials are permitted to issue Postbank Black Cards.
Beneficiaries must not accept cards from unauthorized individuals or third-party institutions.
FAQ: Postbank SASSA
1. What is the status of the Postbank SASSA service agreement?
The agreement ended in September 2025, but social grant payments remain unaffected.
2. Can I still use my SASSA Gold Card?
No. All Gold Cards were disabled after 28 February 2025. Beneficiaries must use Postbank Black Cards or receive funds directly into their bank accounts.
3. How do I get a Postbank Black Card?
Beneficiaries needed to present a valid South African ID or temporary ID at designated retailers such as Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer, or Usave.
4. What benefits come with the Postbank Black Card?
The card offers one free replacement per year, three free in-store withdrawals monthly, and one free statement over the counter.
5. Where can I find the nearest Postbank card replacement site?
Dial 120218*3# on your cellphone, select option 1, and then choose your province to locate a nearby site.
6. How will SASSA pay my grant now that the Postbank agreement ended?
SASSA deposits grants directly into your chosen bank account, regardless of which bank you use.
7. Who do I contact for issues with my Postbank account?
Call Postbank customer care on 0800 53 54 55 for assistance.