How Long Does SASSA Money Stay in the Card Before It Expires?

Losing access to your SASSA grant because of inactivity can be stressful, especially when you depend on it for your daily needs. Knowing how long the money stays on your card and how to keep your account active helps you avoid suspension and financial interruptions.

How Long Can SASSA Money Stay in the Card?

According to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), there is no fixed time limit for how long your grant money can stay on your SASSA card.

The funds remain available until you decide to withdraw them. You do not need to rush to take all the money on the first payment day.

However, SASSA’s official policy states that if no withdrawals or activity occur for 90 consecutive days (three months), your account may be suspended or deactivated. This rule is meant to prevent misuse, fraud, or inactive grant accounts.

Why SASSA Suspends Inactive Accounts?

The 90-day policy exists for security and management reasons. When money is left untouched for several months, it signals that the account holder may no longer be using the grant or might have changed circumstances.

To maintain accurate and active beneficiary records, SASSA temporarily suspends accounts that show no withdrawal or usage for over three months.

During suspension, no new grant payments will reflect in your account until you contact SASSA to verify your information and request reactivation.

Does SASSA Money Disappear After 90 Days of Inactivity?

No, your money does not disappear after 90 days. The funds remain linked to your account. However, the account itself may be frozen, and you will need to visit a SASSA or Postbank branch to reactivate it before you can access the remaining balance.

SASSA confirms that even when accounts are suspended, beneficiaries can recover their funds once the account is verified and reopened. This process ensures the rightful owner receives the grant safely and securely.

SASSA’s Recommendation on Withdrawing Money

SASSA advises beneficiaries not to withdraw all their money at once. Carrying large sums of cash can make you a target for theft. Instead, it’s safer to withdraw smaller amounts when needed and leave the rest on the card.

Even a small withdrawal within three months shows SASSA that your account is still active. This simple action prevents automatic suspension.

How to Keep Your SASSA Card Active?

To make sure your card stays active and your grant payments continue without interruption, follow these key steps:

1. Withdraw or use your card at least once every three months. Even purchasing groceries using your SASSA card counts as activity.
2. Check your balance regularly through ATMs, retailers like Shoprite or Pick n Pay, or the SASSA balance inquiry code.
3. Keep your contact details updated with SASSA, especially your phone number and home address.
4. Avoid giving your card or PIN to anyone. SASSA never asks for your card details over the phone or through SMS.

These steps help keep your account secure and active for future payments.

Gold Card vs. New Black Card: Are Both Active?

Yes. As of 2025, both the SASSA Gold Card and the new Black SASSA/Postbank Card are valid and active for grant payments. Postbank confirmed that gold cards remain functional until replaced by the new black cards, which include enhanced security features.

Beneficiaries can continue using their gold cards for ATM withdrawals, in-store purchases, and balance checks. There’s no need to rush for a replacement unless SASSA or Postbank officially advises you to do so.

What Happens If Your Account Is Suspended?

If your account becomes inactive for more than three months and is suspended:

• You will stop receiving monthly payments until the account is reactivated.
• You can visit your nearest SASSA office with your ID document and SASSA card to verify your identity.
• Once verified, your account will be reopened, and any unpaid grant funds will be restored to your balance.

This process ensures that beneficiaries don’t lose their money permanently but must take action to keep their account in good standing.

Beware of Scams and False Information

SASSA warns beneficiaries to be careful of fraudulent messages or calls claiming that your grant will stop if you don’t change your bank or switch cards. Only Postbank and SASSA are authorized to manage card replacements or account updates.

If you receive suspicious messages, report them immediately to SASSA or the Postbank Fraud Line at 0800 53 54 55.

Key Takeaway

Your SASSA money stays safely on your card indefinitely, as long as you use it at least once every 90 days. You don’t lose your funds after three months, but inactivity may lead to account suspension. Regular small withdrawals, checking your balance, and avoiding scams will keep your grant active and secure.