The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) recently announced the Extends of its payment card agreement with a new provider, introducing the Gold and Black cards for social grant beneficiaries. This extension aims to ensure uninterrupted access to grant payments and improve security, convenience, and accessibility for millions of South Africans relying on social grants.
Features of the New Gold and Black Cards
The Gold and Black cards are debit-style cards issued to beneficiaries, allowing withdrawals at ATMs, retail outlets, and designated pay points without requiring a bank account. The Gold card is primarily for new beneficiaries and replacements, while the Black card is issued to existing beneficiaries with continued benefits. Both card types include enhanced security measures such as chip-and-PIN technology and improved fraud protection.
- Withdrawals at ATMs and pay points
- Purchases at participating retailers (contactless supported)
- Chip-and-PIN and stronger fraud protections
- SMS payment and activity notifications (recommended)
What Beneficiaries Need to Do
Beneficiaries currently receiving grants through SASSA cards will receive communication about upgrading or replacing their cards. Those who do not have a card or who have lost theirs should visit their nearest SASSA office or authorised pay point to apply for or request a new Gold or Black card. Keep your personal information — including contact details and identification — up to date with SASSA to avoid delays.
Registering for SMS notifications linked to the cards is recommended so you can track payments and card activity in real time.
Benefits of the Extended Card System
The renewed card system aims to reduce fraud and theft and provide faster payment processing and greater ease of use. Beneficiaries gain payment flexibility — using cards for cash withdrawals and purchases — and benefit from contactless payment options, which are important for health safety.
Potential Challenges and Support Available
Some beneficiaries may face challenges accessing the new cards or understanding how to use them, especially in remote or underserved areas. SASSA is conducting community outreach and awareness programmes to educate beneficiaries about the cards. Support centres and helplines have been enhanced to assist with card activation, PIN resets, and troubleshooting.
What This Means for Future Grant Payments
Extending the payment card agreement signals SASSA’s commitment to securing and modernising social grant disbursements. It offers stability during a period of transition and complements initiatives to diversify payment channels. Beneficiaries can expect safer, more reliable, and more convenient access to social grants throughout 2025 and beyond.
SASSA Gold and Black Cards Overview
| Card Type | Purpose | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Card | New beneficiaries, replacements | Chip-and-PIN, fraud protection, contactless payments |
| Black Card | Existing beneficiaries | Similar security, continued benefits |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I get a new Gold or Black SASSA card?
Visit your local SASSA office or authorised pay point with your ID to apply for or replace your card.
Q2: Can I use the new SASSA cards for purchases?
Yes. The cards support cash withdrawals and purchases at authorised retail outlets and include contactless payment options.
Q3: What if I lose my SASSA card or forget my PIN?
Contact SASSA’s helpline or visit a support centre for assistance with card replacement or PIN reset.
This card agreement extension is a step forward in ensuring secure, accessible, and modern social grant payments for South Africa’s vulnerable populations. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed and update their details to make the most of these new payment tools.
