VerifiedSASSA is not a bank. When your grant is paid onto a card, the money sits in a Postbank account in your name, and the black card is how you reach it. Postbank is the state-owned bank that handles grant payments. You can also choose to have your grant paid into an account at any other bank.
Postbank grant card or your own bank account?
| Postbank black card | Your own bank account | |
|---|---|---|
| Who provides it | Postbank, issued for grant payments | The bank you choose |
| Where to use it | Participating stores and ATMs | All of your bank’s channels |
| Other income | Meant for your grant | Can receive salary and other payments too |
| Help line | Postbank: 0800 53 54 55 | Your bank’s call centre |
Things to know about the grant card
- The account is in your name. Only you, or a procurator appointed through SASSA, may use it.
- Old SASSA gold cards were replaced by Postbank black cards; the final swap date was 31 August 2026.
- Postbank no longer operates from Post Office branches, so use stores, ATMs or the contact centre.
- Money stays in the account until you withdraw it. It does not expire at the end of the month.
Switching to a bank account
Take your ID and proof of a bank account in your own name to a SASSA office. For the SRD grant, update your details on srd.sassa.gov.za. More in SASSA payment methods.
Frequently asked questions
Is a SASSA card a bank account?
The card is linked to a Postbank account in your name, which exists to receive your grant. SASSA itself is not a bank.
Can I receive other money into my SASSA grant account?
The Postbank grant account is meant for your grant. If you want to receive other income as well, have your grant paid into your own bank account.