Sassa’s gold cards will continue to work until March 20 after which the new black cards will become compulsory.

The original deadline for the switch was February 28, but has been pushed back because of nationwide concerns on the timeline.

Long lines have been seen at changeover points across the North Coast and the country, with grant beneficiaries rushing to ensure they do not get cut off.

In response to the situation, cabinet ministers Solly Malatsi and Nokuzola Tolashe today announced an extension.

“We have listened to the deep concerns and frustrations from our social grant beneficiaries and we trust that this extension will provide much needed time for grant recipients,” said Malatsi and Tolashe in a joint statement.

“To make sure that we are able to assist beneficiaries to swop their cards as efficiently as possible, our departments and entities are working together to add more human capacity and are working with retailers to increase the number of sites across the country.”

The March 20 deadline is the last day that gold cards will work, but grant recipients will still be able to apply for a black card after the date.

Their grants will still be paid out if they have not switched, but they will need to visit a Post Office to access the funds until such point that they have a black card.

Mobile offices will also be made available in rural areas.

“We are also working with community leaders and local authorities to share clear information and offer assistance where needed,” they said.

“Making sure that beneficiaries are able to swop their old gold Sassa cards as easily as possible is our priority and we will update the public regularly.”

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