As of April 2024, there will be a significant change in how you receive your social grants. Cash withdrawals at Post Offices and cash paypoints will no longer be available.
Why the Change?
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and Postbank, responsible for administering grant payments, are transitioning to a more efficient and secure system. Here’s why:
- Security: Reduced risk of “cash-in-transit heists” that threaten grant recipient safety and access to funds.
- Convenience: Over 98% of beneficiaries already receive grants electronically. Sassa Gold/Postbank cards allow access to funds “at any place that accepts a bank card.”
- Efficiency: Reduced reliance on cash infrastructure frees up resources for other services.
What This Means for You:
- If you currently receive your grant cash at a Post Office or cash point, you’ll need to transition to a Sassa Gold Card or Postbank card.
- These cards function like regular bank cards, allowing you to withdraw cash at ATMs or make purchases anywhere that accepts card payments.
What to Do Now:
- Contact SASSA or Postbank to inquire about obtaining a Sassa Gold Card or Postbank card if you haven’t already.
- Ensure your contact details are up-to-date with SASSA to receive important updates and communication.
Who May Be Impacted:
This change primarily affects the approximately 265,000 beneficiaries (around 1.6% of the total) who currently rely on cash withdrawals at Post Offices or cash paypoints.