SASSA’s Big Switch: Gold Cards Out, Black Cards In — New Deadline Confirmed

For thousands of South Africans still using SASSA Gold Cards, the countdown has restarted. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has granted Postbank another 15 months to replace all remaining Gold Cards with the new, secure Black Cards, ensuring beneficiaries continue receiving their grants without disruption.

Why SASSA Gold Cards Are Being Replaced?

The Gold Card phase-out is not just an upgrade, it’s a security requirement. In 2021, a cryptographic breach compromised the key used to issue Gold Cards.

The SARB ordered Postbank to replace these cards with new ones using updated encryption systems.

Delays followed through 2022 and 2023, leading to missed deadlines. The latest extension, announced on 29 August 2025, was necessary to prevent interruptions to millions of grant payments and protect the National Payment System.

The New 15-Month Extension Explained

The SARB’s new directive gives Postbank more time to complete the transition without disrupting payments.
Under the new terms, Postbank must:

• Issue a new “Black Card 2” with advanced security and a new bank identification number.
• Phase out all remaining Gold Cards before the final deadline.
• Strengthen internal auditing and compliance systems.
• Launch awareness campaigns to reach beneficiaries across South Africa.
• Submit progress reports regularly to the SARB.

Failure to meet these new requirements could lead to Postbank losing its participation in the National Payment System, a risk that would affect millions of South Africans.

How Many Beneficiaries Still Use Gold Cards?

According to Postbank, around 450 000 grant beneficiaries are still using Gold Cards, despite repeated calls to switch.

Currently, 75% of clients have already upgraded to the new Black Card, and Postbank says it can issue up to 500 000 cards per month, enough to clear the backlog within two months if beneficiaries come forward.

What Beneficiaries Should Know About the Black Card?

The new Postbank Black Card, and the upcoming Black Card 2, comes with stronger security features to protect users from fraud.
Here’s what beneficiaries should know:

• Existing Black Card holders can keep using their cards until expiry.
• When their cards expire, they’ll receive the Black Card 2 automatically.
• No debit orders or deductions are allowed on Postbank SASSA accounts.
• Beneficiaries receive free monthly statements and one free card replacement if needed.

Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe confirmed that Postbank’s systems are now stable and secure, saying the bank has invested over R500 million in upgrades and established 250 new kiosks at major retail outlets to serve clients better.

Why the Transition Matters for Security?

The replacement of Gold Cards is not only about compliance, it’s about protecting the integrity of South Africa’s social grants system.

SARB’s Head of National Payment System, Tim Masela, told Parliament that fraud risks linked to the old cards have been contained, and the focus is now on ensuring secure, uninterrupted payments.

He added that grant recipients can still use their Gold Cards safely for now, while Postbank completes the swap. “All beneficiaries should care about is that their card works and only valid transactions happen,” Masela said.

Challenges and Concerns Raised in Parliament

Despite reassurances, some Members of Parliament (MPs) voiced concern about the slow rollout and poor communication in rural areas.
Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe criticised the previous phase-out process, saying:

“Deadlines were not met, and the last rollout left vulnerable people standing in long queues under harsh conditions.”

EFF MP Noluvuyo Tafeni questioned whether the continued use of Gold Cards exposes recipients to online fraud risks, while ANC MP Keamotseng Stanley Ramaila highlighted the lack of outreach in rural communities.

Postbank’s Turnaround and Future Plans

Postbank’s CEO confirmed that the institution is recovering from previous losses, recording a profit of R106 million in 2024/25, compared to over R1 billion in losses linked to the Post Office in prior years.

Postbank now serves over 5 million clients, most of whom are SASSA beneficiaries, and aims to complete the card upgrade safely and efficiently before the new SARB deadline expires.

Key Takeaways for SASSA Beneficiaries

If you’re still using a SASSA Gold Card, here’s what to remember:

1. Gold Cards are still valid for now.
2. The new deadline gives Postbank 15 more months to replace them.
3. Visit your nearest Postbank branch or kiosk to collect your new Black Card.
4. No deductions will occur from Postbank SASSA accounts.
5. Keep your contact details up to date to avoid payment delays.

In Summary

The new SASSA deadline to phase out Gold Cards offers much-needed relief for beneficiaries while ensuring payment security.

The shift to the Black Card system is designed to strengthen protection against fraud and guarantee uninterrupted access to social grants, the lifeline for millions of South Africans.