SASSA Gold Card beneficiaries face a looming 31 August deadline to switch to Postbank Black Cards, while Parliament raises concerns about vulnerable beneficiaries struggling to access replacement sites and complete the migration process
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The looming deadline to replace South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Gold Cards with Postbank Black Cards has sparked concern in Parliament, with the Portfolio Committee on Social Development questioning whether vulnerable beneficiaries can be assisted in time.
This comes as the August 31, 2026, deadline approaches, with Postbank warning that beneficiaries who have not migrated could face difficulties accessing their grants.
The committee has raised particular concern about older persons and people with disabilities who may struggle to access card replacement sites.
Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development Bridget Masango said the committee wants urgent clarity from Postbank and SASSA ahead of the deadline.
“The committee wants urgent clarity from Postbank and SASSA on whether every beneficiary who still needs a Black Card can realistically be assisted before Monday’s deadline,” Masango said.
“The committee needs to know how many people are still using Gold Cards, where they are located, whether there are sufficient replacement sites in those areas and what is being done to assist those who cannot stand in queues or travel long distances.”
Masango said the committee had previously raised concerns about the rollout of the Black Cards, particularly the difficulties experienced by older persons and people with disabilities.
She said it was concerning that beneficiaries were once again facing pressure as another deadline approached.
The committee is also concerned about reports of confusion surrounding the issuing of Black Cards in some areas, as well as difficulties experienced by beneficiaries with verification and related processes.
“In particular, the committee wants assurances that beneficiaries who have been unable to replace their cards despite making reasonable attempts to do so will not be left without access to their grants,” Masango added.
“The committee further calls for special arrangements for older persons, people with disabilities and beneficiaries living in rural and remote communities who may have trouble reaching replacement sites.”
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