SASSA Grant Update: Cash Payouts at Post Offices Ending in March
Cash withdrawals at Post Offices for SASSA grants are coming to an end in March 2024. This change, announced by SASSA and Postbank, aims to improve efficiency and security but requires beneficiaries to switch to alternative payment methods. SASSA shared more details about this, and it’s a significant shift.
Cash Payouts at Post Offices Ending in March
This decision is part of a plan by SASSA and the Postbank to stop all the places where you can get physical cash, including at Post Offices. This change started in January and will be completed by the end of March 2024.
SASSA Mentioned,
“During January and March 2024, SASSA will be closing all remaining SASSA and Postbank Cash points.”
This might worry some, but it’s affecting less than 2% of all the people who get SASSA social grants. To break it down, 870 cash pay points are closing, with different numbers for each province.
For Example,
- The Eastern Cape is losing 277 points
- Free State – 26
- Western Cape – 0,
- Gauteng – 6,
- Northern Cape – 13
- North West – 96
- Limpopo – 216
- Mpumalanga – 53
- Kwazulu-Natal – 183.
Why Is The Post Bank Ending All SASSA Cash Paypoints?
Well, the Post Office has been struggling financially, facing a whopping R6 billion loss in the last three years, including an R2.2 billion loss in the 2022/2023 financial year. As part of a rescue plan, the Post Office is closing 420 branches that aren’t making money and letting go of 6,000 employees. They might get a R3.8 billion bailout from the government. The plan also involves getting rid of services that aren’t making enough money, like SASSA and cash pay points.
What Should I Do About The Ending of These SASSA Cash Paypoints?
But, don’t worry too much! Even though Post Offices won’t give out cash, SASSA grant beneficiaries can still get their money. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose an alternative payment method: Decide whether to use your SASSA Gold Card or choose a bank account. Consider factors like accessibility, transaction fees, and personal preference.
- Activate your SASSA Gold Card: Ensure your card is active and you have a PIN. You can use your SASSA gold card at ATMs or retail stores like Boxer, Pick N Pay, Spar, Shoprite, Usave, and Checkers. Contact SASSA for assistance if necessary.
- Open a bank account (optional): Choose a bank with low fees and convenient locations.
- Update your payment details with SASSA: Inform SASSA of your chosen method by visiting a local office or calling the helpline, 0800 601 011.
SASSA says,
“Sassa gold card social grant recipients using CPPs and Post Office branches must now use those cards at any place that accepts a bank card.”
Haven’t the SASSA Gold Cards Expired?
No need to panic – SASSA extended their validity. They won’t expire on December 31, 2023, anymore. SASSA and Postbank will tell you when to get a new card if yours has expired.
Regularly check the SASSA website and social media for updates and resources. Contact SASSA or Postbank if you have questions or require assistance. Again, keep an eye out for more updates from SASSA and Postbank about getting new cards and receiving your grants without any hitches.
