Over 716 900 South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries have transitioned to the Postbank Black Cards from the previous SASSA Gold Cards, Cabinet said on Thursday.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said card distribution sites have been increased around the country to ensure that beneficiaries are assisted before the March 20 deadline.

“More than 716 900 beneficiaries have transitioned to the Postbank black cards and card distribution sites have been increased around the country to mitigate the queues so that every beneficiary receives the new card near where they live.

“Postbank has also increased the number of tellers in the card replacement sites from 2 tellers to up to 5 tellers depending on the business of the site,” the Minister said at a post-Cabinet briefing in Cape Town.

Cabinet also encouraged beneficiaries to visit their nearest Checkers, Shoprite, Pick ‘n Pay, Usave, or Boxer stores to collect their new Postbank Black Card.