Sassa grant beneficiaries no longer able to use gold card

Sassa grant beneficiaries will no longer be able to use the gold card to access their grants. Thursday marked the official deadline for recipients to switch from the Sassa Gold card to the new Postbank Black card.

However, the government has assured beneficiaries that they will still be able to receive their grants by visiting a Post Office branch.

Long Queues at Sassa Offices

On Friday, there were long queues at the Sassa offices in Athlone as grant recipients sought assistance. While the day was designated for Child Grant payouts, many others were present to make the swap to the Postbank Black card.

Some beneficiaries expressed uncertainty about how they would collect their grants moving forward. Despite the deadline passing, several recipients were under the impression that payments would continue regardless of whether they had received their new card.

Sassa grant beneficiaries

Confusion Among Beneficiaries

Many grant recipients remain uncertain about where they should collect their money. One beneficiary mentioned hearing a reassuring message from the President on the news, stating:

“The president said on the news the other day that even though the people didn’t finish the cards yet, we’re still going to get paid.”

This statement has left some beneficiaries hoping that they can still access their grants despite not having transitioned to the new card system.

Sassa’s Assurance to Beneficiaries

During a briefing to the provincial Standing Committee on Social Development this week, Sassa’s acting regional manager, Sibusiso Nhlangothi, addressed the concerns. He reassured beneficiaries who have not yet made the card swap that they can still access their grants.

He explained that those who do not yet have the Postbank Black card can visit Post Office branches with their ID documents to collect their money. This provides a temporary solution for those who missed the deadline.

Waiting for a List of Branches

Nhlangothi further added that they are currently waiting for Postbank to provide an official list of the Post Office branches where beneficiaries can withdraw their grants. Until this information is released, some beneficiaries may face uncertainty about where to go.

Concerns Over the Transition

The transition from the Sassa Gold card to the Postbank Black card has sparked concern among beneficiaries, particularly those who were unaware of the deadline or faced challenges in obtaining the new card. Many elderly and disabled beneficiaries have raised concerns about long wait times and accessibility issues at Sassa offices and Post Offices.

Sassa has urged all affected beneficiaries to ensure they follow updates and instructions carefully to avoid disruptions in receiving their grants. The government continues to work on measures to ensure a smooth transition for those who have not yet swapped their cards.

What Beneficiaries Should Do Next

For beneficiaries who have not yet received their Postbank Black card, the next steps include:

• Visiting their nearest Post Office with their ID to collect their grant.
• Staying updated with Sassa and Postbank announcements regarding designated Post Office branches.
• Seeking assistance from Sassa offices if they experience difficulties accessing their grants.

As the transition continues, Sassa and Postbank are expected to provide more clarity to ensure that all beneficiaries receive their grants without major disruptions. Beneficiaries are advised to remain patient and follow official channels for accurate information regarding their grant payments.