This information is crucial for you if you still possess your old gold card and get any type of social grant from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). According to recent reports, SASSA has extended the gold card’s validity period, so you can now use it to accept payments. You should not, however, be carefree because of this. Your future payments can be impacted if you don’t receive a new black SASSA card in a timely manner.
In this article, we will explain in simple and straightforward words what this change is, why it is important for you, and what you should do now.
What is a gold card?
The SASSA gold card is the card through which the government provides social assistance funds such as old age pension, child allowance or disability grant. This card was issued by South African Postbank and has been in use for a long time.
But now due to technology and security reasons, the government is going to discontinue this card and issue a new black SASSA card in its place.
Is the Gold Card now completely discontinued?
No. For now, the expiry date for the Gold Card has been extended. This means that you can still receive payments with your Gold Card for the time being. This is a relief measure for those who have not yet been able to get a new card.
But both SASSA and Postbank have made it clear that this is a temporary solution. This means that going forward, the Gold Card will be completely discontinued and you will only be able to use the new Black Card.
What is the Black SASSA Card?
The Black Card is a new initiative by SASSA and South African Postbank. This card is more secure, and it is equipped with new technologies that will protect your money from fraud. In addition, this card will now offer more facilities at major retail stores, ATMs and other digital platforms.
You can not only use it for SASSA payments, but it also functions like a normal debit card.
When and how should you get a new card?
If you still have a gold card, you should visit the nearest Postbank or SASSA office as soon as possible to get a new black card. You will need to bring along some documents, such as:
- Your ID book or smart ID card
- Your old gold card
- Any important letter or receipt from SASSA
- Getting a card is completely free and does not take much time.
What happens if you don’t get a new card on time?
If you wait until the last minute and then the gold card is completely blocked, your payment may get stuck. This means you will not get your money on time, and it may be difficult to get that money back later.
SASSA is repeatedly warning people not to wait until the last minute and get a new card as soon as possible.
Avoid rumours
In some places, it is also being heard that the gold card will last forever or that it is not mandatory to get a new card. But SASSA has made it clear that the black card will be required for all payments in the future. So do not believe any rumours or false information.
You should only get information from the official website, helpline or nearest office of SASSA or Postbank.
Conclusion
The deadline for the SASSA Gold Card may have been extended, but it is not a permanent solution. If you want to continue receiving your grants without any hassle, it is better that you get a new black SASSA card in time.
This is not just a card, but a matter related to your rights and security. The sooner you adopt this change, the easier and safer your future will be.
FAQs
Is the gold SASSA card still acceptable?
Yes, SASSA has provisionally extended the time limit for use of the gold card, though this is just a stop-gap measure.
Why would I need to obtain a black SASSA card?
The black card will be more secure, newer and compulsory to receiving SASSA payments in the future.
When do I need to use the compulsory black card?
The date has not yet been made public, but SASSA can possibly stop the gold card as well.
How do I obtain a new black card?
You may obtain a black card at the closest SASSA or South African Postbank branch, without charge.
What is the consequence if I do not receive a black card?
Your social grants can be suspended and payments delayed, so you should replace the card in advance.
