Is the old SASSA card still valid?

Bybursariesafrica

SASSA grants provide much-needed financial support, and receiving them efficiently is important.

In the past, SASSA relied on gold cards for grant distribution.

However, there have been concerns about the validity of these cards, especially those with expired dates.

This article aims to clarify the situation and address any anxieties you might have.

Can I still use my expired SASSA gold card?

Yes, you can. In an official announcement, Postbank, the financial service provider for SASSA, confirmed that all expired SASSA gold cards remain valid throughout 2024.

This applies even if the expiry date printed on your card has passed.

You can continue using your expired card to withdraw your social grants at ATMs or points of sale displaying the SASSA or Postbank logos.

There have been instances of misinformation circulating, urging beneficiaries to switch banks or obtain new cards immediately.

It’s important to be aware that these claims are false.

SASSA and Postbank will communicate directly with beneficiaries regarding any changes to the payment system.

When will the old SASSA cards be replaced?

While there’s no official confirmation on a specific date, SASSA is gradually transitioning to a new card system.

Beneficiaries might receive a black card as a replacement for their gold card.

This change is primarily aesthetic and does not affect the functionality of the card.

You will be notified by SASSA when it’s time to collect your new card.

What are the other channels for receiving SASSA grants?

Although expired gold cards remain valid for now, it’s beneficial to be aware of alternative methods for receiving your social grant:

  1. Post Office Collections: You can withdraw your grant directly from participating post offices across South Africa. Present your SASSA card and a valid ID document to collect your funds.
  2. Bank Deposits: If you have a bank account, you can choose to have your grant deposited electronically. To set this up, contact your nearest SASSA office and enquire about the process.

Regardless of the chosen method (card, post office, or bank deposit), ensure you keep your SASSA card safe.

It serves as your official identification for grant collection.

How do I know if I’m eligible for a SASSA grant?

SASSA offers various social grants to eligible South Africans. These include:

  1. Old Age Grant
  2. Disability Grant
  3. Foster Care Grant
  4. Child Support Grant
  5. War Veterans’ Grant

To determine your eligibility, visit the SASSA website and use the online grants eligibility tool.

Alternatively, you can visit your nearest SASSA office for personalized assistance.

What documents do I need to apply for a SASSA grant?

The required documents for applying for a SASSA grant may vary depending on the specific grant type.

However, some general documents you’ll likely need include:

  1. A completed SASSA application form (available at SASSA offices)
  2. Your South African ID document (original and a copy)
  3. Proof of income (if applicable)
  4. Birth certificate (for child-related grants)
  5. Medical documentation (for disability grants)

It’s recommended to contact your local SASSA office to confirm the exact documentation required for your specific grant application.

How do I contact SASSA for further assistance?

SASSA offers various channels for contacting them regarding grant-related inquiries:

  1. SASSA National Call Centre: 0860 60 10 60
  2. Local SASSA Office: You can find contact details for your nearest SASSA office on the SASSA website.

Social Media: SASSA also maintains a presence on social media platforms like Twitter (@SASSAgovZA) and Facebook.