Cape Town: 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.

According to South African Government News Agency, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced that card distribution sites have been increased around the country to ensure that beneficiaries are assisted before the 20 March 2025 deadline. The minister emphasized that more distribution sites have been set up nationwide to mitigate queues and ensure easy access for beneficiaries to receive their new cards near their residences.

Postbank has also increased the number of tellers at card replacement sites, with some locations now having up to five tellers, depending on the site’s business needs. Cabinet has also encouraged beneficiaries to visit their nearest Checkers, Shoprite, Pick ‘n Pay, Usave, or Boxer stores to collect their new Postbank Black Card.

A valid South African identity document (ID) or temporary ID is required for beneficiaries to transition to the new card. Mobile offices will be available in rural areas to assist those in need. Additionally, Postbank has partnered with the Spar Group to designate 200 of its stores as service sites across the country.

The government has reminded beneficiaries that the old SASSA Gold Card will cease to function on 20 March 2025. Those who have not exchanged their cards by this date will need to visit their nearest Post Office branch to access their funds. SASSA has also provided a system for beneficiaries to locate the nearest collection point using their cellphones.

The transition to Postbank Black Cards will be free of charge, and beneficiaries are encouraged to contact Postbank or SASSA for further inquiries. The initial deadline for this transition was moved from 28 February to 20 March 2025 to accommodate beneficiaries.