SASSA Gold Card Deadline Extended: In a major update for millions of social grant beneficiaries in South Africa, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank have officially extended the deadline for switching from the gold SASSA card to the new black Postbank card. Initially set for 28 February 2025, the deadline has now been extended to 31 May 2025. This move gives beneficiaries additional time to transition without losing access to their grants.
The black card replacement process is crucial. After 31 May 2025, the old gold cards will be deactivated, which means no more access to cash withdrawals, purchases, or balance checks if you haven’t switched. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know—from how to get the new card and where to go, to who is affected and how to avoid grant payment disruptions.
SASSA Gold Card Deadline Extended
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline to Switch | Extended to 31 May 2025 |
| New Card Name | Postbank Black SASSA Card |
| Old Card Phaseout | Gold cards deactivated after the deadline |
| Availability | New cards available at Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Usave, Boxer stores |
| Required Documents | Valid SA ID or temporary ID |
| Security Upgrade | Black card includes enhanced security features |
| Contact Info | Postbank: 0800 53 54 55, SASSA: 0800 60 10 11 |
| Find Card Sites | Dial *120*355# on mobile to locate a collection point |
| Official Info | www.sassa.gov.za |
The switch from the SASSA gold card to the new black Postbank card is not optional—it’s a critical step to ensure that millions of South Africans continue receiving their social grants without interruption. With the new deadline of 31 May 2025, there’s still time to act, but it’s essential to do so promptly.
Visit an authorized retailer with your ID and collect your new card to avoid losing access to your money. Stay alert to scams, follow SASSA’s guidance, and help others—especially the elderly—understand the importance of making the switch.
Why Is SASSA Replacing the Gold Card?
The SASSA gold card, which has served millions of South Africans for years, is being phased out due to security and system upgrades. Postbank, which manages the payment of social grants, is rolling out the new black card with stronger security measures, chip technology, and better fraud prevention systems.
“This change is not about aesthetics. It’s about protecting your grant and ensuring smoother, more secure access to your money,” explains Nompumelelo Ngwenya, a Postbank spokesperson.
Without switching to the new card, beneficiaries risk losing access to their grants from June 2025 onwards.
Who Must Replace Their Gold SASSA Card?
If you currently receive any of the following grants via the gold SASSA card, you must switch:
- Old Age Pension
- Disability Grant
- Child Support Grant
- Foster Child Grant
- War Veterans Grant
- Care Dependency Grant
Every beneficiary using the gold card is required to make the switch before 31 May 2025. There are no exceptions. Even if your gold card is still functioning, it will stop working after the deadline.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Failing to replace your card by 31 May 2025 will lead to deactivation of your gold card, which means:
- You will not be able to withdraw money from ATMs.
- You will not be able to buy groceries using the card.
- You will not receive your monthly grant into your old card account.
- In short, your social grant will be inaccessible until you get the new black card.
Replace Your SASSA Gold Card
Replacing your card is free and easy if you follow the right steps:
- Find the Nearest Card Collection Point: Dial *120*355# on your phone to get a list of nearby collection locations.Most beneficiaries can get their new black cards at major retail chains including:
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Pick n Pay
- Usave
- Boxer
- Bring the Right Documents: When going to collect your new card, take along,
- Your green barcoded ID book or Smart ID card
- If your ID is lost, bring a temporary ID certificate issued by Home Affairs
- Your old gold SASSA card (if available)
- Get Your Card: At the service point,
- You will complete verification with a SASSA/Postbank representative
- They’ll issue you the new black card
- You’ll receive instructions for activating the card and setting your PIN
Features of the New Postbank Black Card
The new card offers several improved features over the gold version:
- EMV chip for enhanced security
- Access to all major ATMs and retail stores across South Africa
- Lower fraud risk with real-time monitoring
- Simplified balance checking and transaction tracking
- Support from Postbank branches and customer service
“The black card not only improves security but also broadens access for beneficiaries in rural areas,” notes Prof. Elize van Heerden, a social grants researcher.
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Security Reminders: Avoid Scams
With the transition underway, scams are on the rise. Follow these safety tips:
- Don’t give your PIN to anyone, even if they claim to be from SASSA or Postbank.
- Don’t pay anyone to get the card—it’s free.
- Only collect your card at official sites or authorized retailers.
- If your card is stolen or lost, call 0800 53 54 55 immediately.
Why the Deadline Extension Matters
The original deadline of 28 February 2025 was extended because many beneficiaries, especially in remote areas, couldn’t meet it. Government officials emphasized that the extension to 31 May 2025 is the final grace period.
Beneficiaries are urged to not wait until the last minute, as long queues and delays are expected closer to the deadline.
“Start early to avoid being left without access to your grant,” warns SASSA CEO Busisiwe Memela.
Contact Details for Help
- SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- Postbank Helpline: 0800 53 54 55
- Card Collection Location Code: Dial 120355#
- Official Website: www.sassa.gov.za
FAQs On SASSA Gold Card Deadline Extended
Q1: Can I still use my gold SASSA card?
A: Yes—but only until 31 May 2025. After that, it will no longer work.
Q2: Is there a fee to switch to the black card?
A: No, replacing your card is completely free.
Q3: What happens if I lose my new black card?
A: Call Postbank at 0800 53 54 55 to block it and get a replacement.
Q4: Do I need to reapply for my grant after getting the new card?
A: No, your grant will automatically continue—just with the new card.
Q5: Can someone collect the card on my behalf?
A: No, unless they have a valid Power of Attorney or are a recognized proxy with SASSA.
