SASSA's Sandy Godlwana chats about the card changes
The deadline for SASSA beneficiaries to replace their gold cards with black Postbank cards has been extended from 28 February to 20 March 2025.
South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries must replace their gold cards with black Postbank cards by March 20, 2025.
Carol Ofori spoke with Sandy Godlwana, SASSA senior manager of communication and marketing, who provided key insights into the transition.
She explained where and how to make the switch, the requirements for obtaining a new card, the reasons behind the change, and the consequences of not upgrading. She also addressed scams targeting beneficiaries during this process.
Importantly, March 20, 2025, marks the last day the gold SASSA cards will be valid – not the final day to apply for a new card.
The new black card offers enhanced security features, and as Godlwana highlighted, the upgrade is necessary because the gold cards are nearing their expiration date.
In response to widespread complaints from SASSA grant beneficiaries across online and media platforms, SASSA has extended the deadline for card upgrades.
Godlwana explained that beneficiaries looking to replace their gold cards with the new black Postbank cards can do so at selected retailers offering Postbank services. These include Shoprite, Boxer, U-Save, Pick n Pay, Checkers, and some SPAR stores. The only requirement for the upgrade is a valid ID.
She also advised elderly or immobile beneficiaries to ask for help from family members, as the cardholder must be present for the upgrade.
To find a Postbank branch near you, use the branch locator here.
Godlwana urged cardholders to stay vigilant during the upgrade process, warning that scammers may go door-to-door pretending to be from SASSA.
She emphasised that no SASSA official will visit beneficiaries at home and that card upgrades can only be done at retailers with Postbank services or official SASSA offices.
According to Sowetan Live, "Mobile offices will also be dispatched to focus on rural areas and ensure we assist as many people as possible."
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