I’m in a bit of a jam. My SASSA card has gone missing, and I desperately need access to my grant money.
Panic sets in! But then I remember – there are ways to withdraw that money without needing the physical card.
Let me tell you, the first time I tried this, I was a bit nervous. I’d always relied on my trusty SASSA card before.
But, determined to get my cash, I decided to give it a go. I figured, if I could do it, others in the same situation could benefit from knowing how.
So, here’s my first-hand experience on getting that grant money out, even without your card in sight.
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- Your mobile phone: You’ll receive a one-time PIN (OTP) on it.
- Your South African ID card: This proves your identity.
- Your SASSA/Postbank Gold Card PIN: You’ll need this to confirm your identity at some withdrawal points.
1. Withdrawal of SASSA Money Via Cash Send Services
Here’s how to withdraw your SASSA money using Cash Send:
1. Choose your withdrawal method:
- ABSA ATM: Look for the “Cash Send” logo on the ATM screen.
- ABSA branch: Visit your nearest ABSA branch.
- FNB E-Wallet: You’ll need the FNB app and follow their in-app instructions.
- Standard Bank ATM: Look for the “Cash Send” logo on the ATM screen.
- Standard Bank branch: Visit your nearest Standard Bank branch.
2. Follow the steps specific to your chosen method:
ABSA ATM:
Step 1: Locate a nearby ABSA ATM with the Cash Send logo using the branch locator on https://www.absa.co.za/find-us/.
Step 2: Insert your card (optional, some ATMs may not require it).
Step 3: Select “Cash Send” on the ATM screen.
Step 4: Enter your SASSA grant phone number. This is the phone number you registered with SASSA.
Step 5: You’ll receive an OTP on your phone. Enter the OTP on the ATM screen.
Step 6: Choose the amount you want to withdraw (up to your grant limit).
Step 7: Collect your cash from the ATM dispenser.
ABSA branch:
Step 1: Find your nearest ABSA branch using the branch locator on https://www.absa.co.za/find-us/.
Step 2: Inform the teller you want to withdraw your SASSA grant using Cash Send.
Step 3: Provide your SASSA grant phone number and your ID card to the teller.
Step 4: You’ll receive an OTP on your phone. Share the OTP with the teller.
Step 5: The teller will verify your information and grant you your cash.
FNB E-Wallet:
Step 1: Download and install the FNB app on your smartphone if you haven’t already.
Step 2: Open the FNB app and log in to your account.
Step 3: Locate the “Cash Send” or “SASSA” option within the app (specific steps may vary).
Step 4: Follow the in-app instructions, which may involve entering your SASSA grant details and phone number.
Step 5: You’ll receive an OTP on your phone. Enter the OTP within the app.
Step 6: Choose a pick-up location from the available options.
Step 7: Collect your cash from the chosen pick-up location using the provided reference number.
Standard Bank ATM:
Step 1: Locate a nearby Standard Bank ATM with the Cash Send logo using the branch locator on https://www.standardbank.co.za/southafrica/personal/branch-locator.
Step 2: Insert your card (optional, some ATMs may not require it).
Step 3: Select “Cash Send” on the ATM screen.
Step 4: Enter your SASSA grant phone number.
Step 5: You’ll receive an OTP on your phone. Enter the OTP on the ATM screen.
Step 6: Choose the amount you want to withdraw (up to your grant limit).
Step 7: Collect your cash from the ATM dispenser.
Standard Bank branch:
Step 1: Find your nearest Standard Bank branch using the branch locator on https://www.standardbank.co.za/southafrica/personal/branch-locator.
Step 2: Inform the teller you want to withdraw your SASSA grant using Cash Send.
Step 3: Provide your SASSA grant phone number and your ID card to the teller.
Step 4: You’ll receive an OTP on your phone. Share the OTP with the teller.
Step 5: The teller will verify your information and grant you your cash.
Important Reminders:
- Keep your phone with you: It’s essential to have access to the phone number linked to your SASSA grant to receive the OTP.
- Avoid busy times: If possible, try to visit ATMs or branches during less crowded hours.
- Stay alert: Be aware of your surroundings while withdrawing. If you feel uncomfortable, ask someone you trust for help.
- Transaction Fees: Some banks might charge a small fee for using Cash Send services.
Additional Tips:
Check your balance before withdrawal: Ensure you have enough funds available in your SASSA account.
You can do so through the SASSA website or relevant banking channels.
Practice using ATMs: If you are unfamiliar with ATMs, it may be helpful to practice using them before attempting a Cash Send withdrawal.
You can ask a friend or family member who is familiar with ATMs to show you how they work.
2. SASSA R350 Cardless Cash Withdrawal
This guide explains how to withdraw your SASSA R350 grant without a card, using the SASSA Cardless Cash Withdrawal option.
This method relies on partnering retail stores instead of ATMs and requires a mobile phone and your South African ID card.
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- Your mobile phone: You’ll receive a one-time PIN (OTP) on it.
- Your South African ID card: This proves your identity.
Here’s how to withdraw your SASSA R350 grant using SASSA Cardless Cash Withdrawal:
1. Change your SASSA payment method (one-time step):
You need to switch your SASSA account payment method to “Cash Send” before using this option. Here’s how:
- Visit the SASSA website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/
- Click on “My SASSA Status” and log in using your ID number and PIN.
- Navigate to the “Payments” section and choose “Change Payment Method.”
- Select “Cash Send” and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the change. This step only needs to be done once.
2. Find a participating SASSA retailer:
SASSA has partnered with several retail stores where you can withdraw your grant using this method. Here’s the list:
- Pick & Pay
- Shoprite
- Usave
- OK
- Checkers
- Boxer
- Spar
3. Visit the chosen retailer:
Locate your nearest participating store from the list above.
4. Approach the customer service desk:
Inform the staff member you want to withdraw your SASSA grant using the cardless cash withdrawal option.
5. Provide your details:
- Show the staff member your South African ID card for verification.
- Provide the phone number linked to your SASSA grant.
6. Receive and confirm OTP:
You’ll receive an OTP on your phone.
- Do not share this code with anyone!
- Enter the OTP on the device provided by the store staff (e.g., a keypad).
7. Collect your cash:
Once the information is verified, the store staff will provide you with your SASSA R350 grant in cash.
Important Reminders:
Keep your phone with you: It’s crucial to have access to the phone linked to your SASSA grant to receive the OTP.
Be prepared to wait: Depending on the store’s customer volume, you might encounter queues.
Transaction fees: Some stores might charge a small fee for using this service. Inquire about potential fees before proceeding.
Best SASSA Cardless Withdrawal Method
Here are the cardless SASSA withdrawal methods that might be the best fit for you, considering your individual needs and preferences:
Cash Send (ABSA, FNB, Standard Bank)
- Pros:
- Fast and convenient withdrawal process.
- Available at numerous ATMs and bank branches.
- No need to visit a specific retailer.
- Cons:
- Can incur higher transaction fees compared to other methods.
- ATMs in some areas might get crowded.
Who it’s best for: Individuals who prioritize speed and flexibility and are comfortable using ATMs or visiting a bank branch.
SASSA R350 Cardless Cash Withdrawal (Retailers)
- Pros:
- Doesn’t require a bank account or ATM card to access your grant.
- Offers greater security as you don’t need to rely on ATMs.
- Cons:
- Requires visiting a specific SASSA-partnered retailer.
- Potential for longer waits and lines at stores, especially during peak times.
Who it’s best for: Individuals who are less comfortable with ATMs or don’t have a bank account, and are willing to visit a specific store for their withdrawal.
Direct Deposit into Your Bank Account
- Pros:
- Most convenient – grant money arrives automatically in your account.
- Eliminates the need to physically visit a withdrawal point.
- Helps manage your finances more effectively.
- Cons:
- Requires you to have an active bank account.
- There might be an initial delay when first setting up a direct deposit.
Who it’s best for: Individuals who already have a bank account and prefer the ease and predictability of direct deposits for managing their finances.
Choosing the Best Method: Additional Factors to Consider
- Location: Are there accessible ATMs, bank branches, or SASSA-partnered retailers near you?
- Comfort with technology: Do you feel confident using ATMs or navigating bank interactions?
- Personal safety: Do you feel most secure withdrawing at ATMs, bank branches, or within specific stores?
- Financial management style: Do you prefer instant cash access or the automated structure of direct bank deposits?