SASSA Expired Cards [New Card Guide]
Getting a new SASSA card is like getting a new driver’s license. It’s a simple process, but it is essential to ensure you have all the correct documents and complete guidelines about what steps to take to access your social grant without any difficulty.
Earlier this year, in April, Social Development Minister Zulu extended the SASSA Expired Cards date till 31 DECEMBER 2023, which was about to expire at the end of April 2023. Because of the unavailability of new cards, thousands of SASSA beneficiaries crowded South African Post Office (SAPO) branches across the country to collect their new cards.
What to do with SASSA Expired Cards?
If your SASSA card has expired, take immediate action so you can continue accessing your social grants without hesitation. For this, you should contact SASSA, which you can do through;
I. Visit your nearest SASSA office
ii. Calling their helpline
Iii. Send an email
From SASSA, you will know if your card can be replaced or if you need a new one.
How to get a new SASSA Gold Card?
To obtain a new SASSA gold card, you will typically need to go through the renewal or replacement process, which will be thoroughly explained in a few, but first, let’s look at the required documents.
Documents Needed for New Card
The required documents for claiming a new SASSA Gold Card are as follows;
- Your ID document or passport.
- A recent proof of residence.
- Your cell phone number.
- Recent bank statement.
- Your bank details (if you want to receive your grant payments electronically)
Steps to get a SASSA New Card
Here are the steps you should follow;
1. Contact SASSA:
You can visit your nearest Sassa office, call their helpline, or email. SASSA will provide specific details about card renewal or replacement.
2. Provide Required Documents:
SASSA will demand specific documents for renewal. Common documents may include your South African ID, residential proof, and a recent bank statement. Get these documents ready to ensure the continuation of the renewal process.
3. Bank Verification:
This step is essential to access your funds with the new card. SASSA may conduct a bank verification to confirm your details and then link your new card with your social grant payments.
After these steps, you will be issued a new card, which you can collect from your nearest SASSA office.
How much is the Validity of SASSA Cards?
The validity time for SASSA cards is 3 years after their issued date, and usually, it is printed on the front of the card. By the end of this year, almost 5.3 million people will be getting their SASSA cards expire on 31 December.
Is SASSA Extending Expiry Date for Cards?
SASSA has not yet announced any further extensions of the expiry date of gold cards. However, given that the current extension is due to expire on 31 December 2023 and that the Post Office is still procuring new cards, SASSA may be forced to extend the expiry date again.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on SASSA to decide whether to extend the expiry date as soon as possible to avoid uncertainty and confusion among beneficiaries.
In the meantime, SASSA beneficiaries with expired gold cards can continue to use their cards to access their social grants.
What to do If the SASSA Card Expires in NOV 2023?
If your SASSA card expires in November 2023, visit your nearest Post Office branch as soon as possible to have it replaced. You will carry your valid ID with you and your expired SASSA Card.
The Post Office is currently procuring new SASSA cards, but it is not yet clear whether they will be available in time for all beneficiaries with expiring cards. That’s why visiting the Post Office early is vital to avoid delays.
Conclusion
This article provides a complete and comprehensive guide on what to do if your SASSA card has expired or is about to expire, the documents required to renew or replace your card, the steps involved in the process, and the validity period of SASSA cards.
Ultimately, I emphasize the importance of taking immediate action to ensure you can continue accessing your social grants without interruptions.