Fix Why Your SASSA Card Declined & is Not Working at the ATM

SASSA virtual card allows grant beneficiaries to make transactions from ATMs. However, there can be times when SASSA blocks your card, which prevents you from using the account and accessing the grant money. And this can become a really frustrating situation.

There can be many reasons why it happens, from technical malfunctions to administrative issues and simple mistakes.

Here is a complete guide to tell you why the SASSA card is not working and how you can fix it. So, dive right in for more.

Potential Reasons Why Your SASSA Card Is Declined

There can be multiple reasons why the SASSA card of beneficiaries gets blocked. Here is a list of all the potential reasons

You have not collected your grant within the due date of 90 days.
If the daily withdrawal deadline has passed and your card has entered block expiration.
Entering the wrong pin code multiple times can result in your SASSA card getting blocked.
Glitches on the website or technical issues at the ATM can also get your SASSA card blocked.

Fix 1: Get Help from SASSA Physically

The first way to get your SASSA card to work again is by getting the due help from the nearest local SASSA center. Go there and ask them about the reason why your SASSA card is not working. They will tell you whether it is a technical issue or an administrative problem and hopefully will help you in resolving this issue.

Fix 2: Try Resetting Your Pincode

One potential reason why your SASSA card is not working is that you have entered the wrong PIN code multiple times, and now it is blocked. To resolve this issue, you can reset the pin code either by visiting the nearest local SASSA office or online by calling the SASSA toll-free number. To do this, they will ask you to provide some proof of identification, so make sure to take it with you.

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Fix 3: Retrieve Your Pincode

Another way you can get your SASSA card unblocked is by retrieving the code. However, this is only possible once you have reactivated the card. And here is how you can do it.

First, go to WhatsApp and message SASSA at their official WhatsApp number, 082 046 8553.
Next, type Hi and it will initiate the chat.
From the pop-up menu, select the Help option and they will send you a one-time OTP PIN code.
After this, they will ask you for the reference number you got from the SASSA office.
Once you enter this, you will see a set of instructions on the screen. Follow these, retrieve your OTP, and unblock your SASSA card.

Fix 4: Reactivate Your Card

The fourth way you can get your SASSA card unblocked is by reactivating the card. This happens usually when you don’t make a transaction once the payment is released for whatever reason. Hence, in return, SASSA blocks your virtual card.

All you need to do to reactivate your card is visit the nearest SASSA office and provide them proof of your identity, along with a consent form and grant application. They will verify the information and will unblock the card. While you are visiting there, make sure to get your documents with you.

Fix 5: Wait Till the Block Expires

Sometimes, it happens that you go over the daily withdrawal limit set by SASSA. In this case, the card enters the block expiration for one day. Hence, the best way out of this is to wait for one day and make your transaction as you normally do the next day.

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Fix 6: Get Help Online from SASSA

The last method to get your SASSA card unblocked is by contacting their toll-free number. Call them at 0800601011 or send an email to grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za, and a representative will help you regarding the issue. Hopefully, they will unblock your card on the call.

Some Tips to Prevent Getting in This Situation Next Time

Finally, here are some useful tips from my side you can follow to make sure you don’t get stuck in this situation in the future. So, let’s get in.

Always be punctual and collect your grants within the due date.
Do not try to get more money than the withdrawal limit. Always stay within the withdrawal limit, as it prevents your credit score from getting bad.
Make sure to remember the pin code, and don’t try the wrong pin several times. And never ever share your PIN code with other people. Keep it safe somewhere where you can get it, even when you forget.
Always keep your card safe, and don’t share the details with anyone.

What should I do if my SASSA card is not working?

If your SASSA card is not working and you are unable to find the cause of it, contact SASSA by physically visiting them or calling on their toll-free number. A representative will resolve this issue. Make sure to provide them with proof of identity.

What is happening to the SASSA card?

According to the latest SASSA announcement, Postbank is going to replace the cards after December. So, if you are a recipient of a SASSA grant, you should apply for the card replacement program. But before that, consult a SASSA representative by calling their Toll-free number.

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Is the SASSA card still working?

Yes, the SASSA gold card is still working. It will remain valid beyond December 31, 2023.

SASSA Virtual is preferred by most grant beneficiaries, as it is an easy and convenient way to make transactions. And if anything goes wrong with this, it becomes impossible to access the grant money. I hope this guide was helpful in figuring out what is wrong with your SASSA card, and hopefully, you have resolved this issue.