Mondli Gungubele, the deputy communications and digital communications minister, confirmed that the process of transitioning social grant recipients from the older gold cards to the newer black cards would not be completed by the initial deadline of 20 March 2025.
Speaking on Tuesday, 4 March, at a social development oversight committee meeting in the Western Cape legislature, Gungubele acknowledged that the migration efforts would need more time.
Officials from Postbank and the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) were present to provide the committee with a comprehensive update on the current status and challenges of the migration initiative.
Current Progress of Card Distribution
A presentation by Postbank revealed that there are approximately 2.85 million Postbank customers across South Africa. As of the latest data, only 880,266 black cards have been issued, leaving 1,971,632 cards still to be distributed—indicating that just 31% of the total cards have been issued.
In the Western Cape specifically, the figures show an even lower completion rate, with only 24% of the cards issued. Out of 322,919 customers, 77,932 cards have been distributed, leaving 244,987 still to be processed.
Contingency Measures and Ongoing Support
Postbank has assured recipients that they will not be left without access to their grants after 20 March.
Even for those who haven’t yet migrated to the new black cards, it will still be possible to withdraw their grants from South African Post Office branches or designated retailer till points.
Additionally, new cards can still be collected through April, providing a temporary extension to alleviate delays.
Challenges Faced by Recipients
The transition has not been without difficulties. At the Golden Acre shopping centre in Cape Town, recipients faced long waits and limited assistance.
Daily Maverick observed lines forming as early as 8 am, with elderly and disabled individuals enduring long queues. Inside, only two Postbank staff members were available to help, while outside, more than 50 people waited.
Shenaaz Samodien, a disability grant recipient from Woodstock, described the process as a “nightmare.” She noted the cost and inconvenience of traveling early in the morning, only to face lengthy queues.
Samodien expressed frustration over the limited number of migration sites, the insufficient staffing levels, and the short operational hours.
For her, the situation was compounded by personal urgency, as she needed to resolve her card issues before an upcoming hospital visit.
Nandi Manakaza, another recipient, faced similar struggles. After attempting to visit a designated migration site at Boxer supermarket in Philippi, she turned back due to the overwhelming queues that formed before dawn. Later, she traveled from Nyanga to Cape Town’s CBD in search of help.
Manakaza highlighted how these issues disproportionately affected elderly recipients, especially those in rural areas like Umtata, where access to migration sites is virtually nonexistent. She suggested a more proactive approach, such as door-to-door services, to assist vulnerable populations who cannot easily travel.
How to Collect Your New Black Card
Beneficiaries can apply for and collect their black cards at select retailers. To find the nearest location, dial *120*218*3# and bring along a valid ID document.
This option aims to streamline the process and make it more accessible for those who have yet to receive their new cards.
Card Migration Status (March 2025)
| Region | Total Customers | Cards Issued | Cards Remaining | Completion Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 2,851,898 | 880,266 | 1,971,632 | 31% |
| Western Cape | 322,919 | 77,932 | 244,987 | 24% |
The transition from gold to black social grant cards has proven to be a complex process, with significant hurdles for both recipients and administrators. While only a fraction of recipients have received their new cards, contingency measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted grant access.
Moving forward, increased staffing, extended hours, and improved communication could help streamline the process and better serve the millions of beneficiaries relying on these critical funds.
FAQs
What should I do if I haven’t received my black card yet?
Beneficiaries can continue to collect grants through the Post Office or retailer till points. Additionally, new cards can still be picked up at designated outlets through April 2025.
How can I find the nearest store that distributes black cards?
Simply dial *120*218*3# and follow the instructions to locate a participating outlet nearby.
What documents do I need to collect the new black card?
A valid ID document is required to obtain your black card.
Will I lose access to my grant if I don’t switch cards by March 2025?
No, you will still be able to withdraw your grant through the Post Office or participating retailers even if the card migration process is not completed by then.