The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards will remain valid through December and the following months, based on a Postbank announcement.

As a result, recipients of social grants will be able to use their cards normally.

“This important development means that millions of social grant beneficiaries don’t have to change their SASSA Gold Cards to the cards of the other banks.

“The payments of social grants through SASSA Gold Cards over the years has empowered marginalised populations and made it easier for them to access their funds, especially in rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure may be limited.

“Guaranteeing that SASSA Gold Cards will work beyond December 2023 is one of the highlights of Postbank’s commitment to providing convenient and affordable service quality to the disadvantaged,” the bank’s spokesperson, Dr Bongani Diako said.

He cautioned beneficiaries against falling for false information about their cards and dishonest retailers.

Beneficiaries are strongly advised to disregard misleading information that might direct them to change to other card products claiming that the SASSA Gold Cards are being replaced. Postbank is the only bank mandated to replace SASSA Gold Cards.

“No retailer or shop has the right to force beneficiaries to make a purchase: SASSA beneficiaries are advised to report any retailer or shop that forces them to buy goods prior to paying out their SASSA grants. You are entitled to your full SASSA grant payment, and you have every right to use the money as you deem necessary,” Diako said.

The spokesperson explained the benefits of the gold card.

“SASSA Gold Cards can be used to withdraw SASSA grants from a wide network of the country’s ATMs, of any bank, including any retailer, such as Boxer, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Usave, Spar, and Shoprite.

“This diversity of channels reduces the need for beneficiaries to stand in long queues at Post Offices or cash pay points.

“SASSA Gold Cards offer numerous transaction benefits, including free withdrawals inside retail shops, free 3-month statements and balance inquiries. Beneficiaries are empowered because they get their grants money in full and save on transaction costs,” he said.