SASSA Gold Cards To Remain Valid In December And Beyond, Postbank Announces

South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards will remain valid in December and beyond, as per the Postbank's announcement on Tuesday.

SASSA gold cards have been issued by the South African government to individuals and families who receive financial assistance.

"This important development means that millions of social grants beneficiaries don't have to change their SASSA gold cards to the cards of the other banks," the postbank said, SA News reported.

It added, "The payments of social grants through SASSA gold cards over the years has empowered marginalized populations and made it easier for them to access their funds, especially in rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure may be limited."

Bongani Diako, Postbank's spokesperson, said this announcement guarantees the cards will work beyond December 2023, showing the bank's commitment to providing convenient and affordable service quality to the disadvantaged.

The spokesperson also warned beneficiaries not to fall for any misleading information regarding the card being discontinued by the bank or about SASSA gold card holders having to switch to another bank.

"Beneficiaries are strongly advised to disregard misleading information that might direct them to change to other card products claiming that the SASSA gold cards are being replaced. Postbank is the only bank mandated to replace SASSA gold cards," he explained.

The spokesperson pointed out that no retailer or shop can force beneficiaries to make a purchase. "SASSA beneficiaries are advised to report any retailer or shop that forces them to buy goods prior to paying out their SASSA grants. You are entitled to your full SASSA grant payment, and you have every right to use the money as you deem necessary," he continued.

Diako further explained the benefits of using the gold cards, noting that they can be "used to withdraw SASSA grants from a wide network of the country's ATMs, of any bank, including any retailer, such as Boxer, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Usave, Spar and Shoprite."

Due to the diversity of channels, the beneficiaries don't have to stand in long queues at post offices or cash pay points.

"SASSA gold cards offer numerous transaction benefits, including free withdrawals inside retail shops, free three-month statements and balance inquiries. Beneficiaries are empowered because they get their grants money in full and save on transaction costs," the spokesperson concluded.

Earlier this month, the Payment Association of South Africa (PASA) announced that SASSA gold cards would remain valid until Dec. 31.