Postbank has reassured SASSA grant beneficiaries in Pretoria that their Gold Cards will remain valid throughout 2025, dispelling concerns raised by earlier announcements stating an expiration date of 31 December 2024. These cards will continue to function until beneficiaries receive their new Black Cards.
In a prior statement, Postbank confirmed that even if a Gold Card expired, it would still be valid throughout 2024. However, concerns arose after some beneficiaries experienced difficulties accessing grants, prompting questions about the transition process to the new cards.
Nationwide Rollout of Black Cards Underway
The introduction of Postbank’s Black Cards has commenced in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Northern Cape, and North West. According to Postbank spokesperson Bongani Diako, beneficiaries in areas yet to begin issuing Black Cards need not worry.
“We will take the cards to where they live in every part of the country,” Diako assured, emphasizing that Gold Cards will remain operational until replaced with the Black Cards. Beneficiaries are urged to disregard conflicting advice, including suggestions to change their payment method prematurely.
Enhanced Features of Postbank Black Cards
The new Black Cards come equipped with improved security features, offering compliance with updated EMV (Europay, Mastercard, Visa) banking standards. Diako highlighted that EMV compliance is a global requirement, necessitating card replacement every few years.
“This ensures a secure and efficient method for receiving grants,” he said.
What SASSA Beneficiaries Need to Obtain Black Cards
To receive the new Black Cards, beneficiaries must present a valid ID or a temporary ID. Those who have misplaced their IDs are encouraged to obtain temporary identification documents.
Collection Points in Pretoria
Beneficiaries in Pretoria can collect their cards at the following locations:
| Retailer/Branch | Address |
|---|---|
| Boxer, Station Square | Station Square, Pretoria |
| Shoprite, Lilian Ngoyi and Bloed St | Pretoria City Center |
| Shoprite, Lilian Ngoyi and Struben St | Pretoria City Center |
| Shoprite, Pretoria North | Pretoria North |
| Shoprite, Wierdapark | Centurion |
| Shoprite, Nafcoc Soshanguve | Soshanguve |
| Shoprite, Nkomo Village | Atteridgeville |
| Shoprite, Hammanskraal | Hammanskraal |
| Shoprite, Jubilee Crossing | Jubilee Crossing, Hammanskraal |
| Shoprite, Temba | Temba, Hammanskraal |
| Shoprite, Denlyn Mall, Mamelodi | Mamelodi |
| Shoprite, Soshanguve Crossing | Soshanguve Crossing |
| Shoprite, Ga-Rankuwa | Ga-Rankuwa |
| Shoprite, Centurion Mall | Centurion Mall |
| Postbank, Pretoria Branch | Church Square, Pretoria |
| Postbank, Pretoria North Branch | 247 Ben Viljoen Street, Pretoria North |
Special Program for Elderly and Bedridden Beneficiaries
Postbank has introduced a dedicated program to assist elderly or bedridden beneficiaries who are unable to travel to collection points. Under this initiative, Postbank representatives will deliver Black Cards directly to recipients’ homes. While specific scheduling details are pending, Diako confirmed the program will launch in the coming weeks.
Collecting Cards on Behalf of Beneficiaries
For beneficiaries unable to collect their cards, an authorized person can do so on their behalf. The representative must present an official SASSA authorization letter, although the beneficiary’s presence is not required.
Key Benefits Retained with Black Cards
Postbank reassured recipients that the benefits associated with Gold Cards remain unchanged with the new Black Cards. These include:
- Free first card replacement if lost or stolen.
- Three free withdrawals per month at participating stores.
- One free monthly statement over the counter.
- No unauthorized deductions.
For asylum seekers, an official approval letter from SASSA is required to obtain the Black Card.
Postbank’s Commitment to Efficient Banking Services
Over the past 14 months, significant improvements have been made to Postbank’s core banking systems to align with industry standards. Diako emphasized the institution’s dedication to enhancing its services, ensuring smooth transitions for its beneficiaries.
FAQs
When will the Gold Cards stop working?
Gold Cards will remain valid until beneficiaries receive their new Black Cards, ensuring uninterrupted access to grants throughout 2025.
What documents are required to collect the Black Cards?
Beneficiaries need to present either a valid ID or a temporary ID to collect their Black Cards.
Can someone else collect the Black Card on behalf of a beneficiary?
Yes, authorized representatives can collect Black Cards by presenting an official SASSA authorization letter.
