UPDATE: In a joint statement by the Ministers of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, and Social Development Nokuzola Tolashe on Friday, it was announced that the deadline for Sassa beneficiaries to swop their gold cards for black Postbank ones has been extended to March 20.

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SASSA beneficiaries have until February 28 to renew their cards and transition from the SASSA Gold Card to the new Postbank Black Card. All gold cards will be invalid for all transactions after the deadline.

According to the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Bridget Masango, the new black card has improved security features and provides better access to grant money through ATMs, selected retailers, and online platforms.

On Wednesday, the agency warned that beneficiaries without the new Postbank cards could have trouble with their transactions after the deadline.

All SASSA Gold Cards will stop working on February 28, regardless of the expiry date printed on them.

“There is no waiting period for the Postbank Black Cards. Social grant beneficiaries will continue enjoying the same benefits they are getting from the Gold Cards when switching to the new Postbank Black Cards,” SASSA said.

To get the new Postbank Black Cards, beneficiaries are only required to have a valid South African ID or a temporary ID. No card will be issued without these documents.