New R45 Withdrawal Fee Rule – In the last few weeks, thousands of SASSA beneficiaries across South Africa have reported issues when trying to withdraw their grant money at ATMs. From error messages to declined transactions, many are frustrated and anxious—especially those relying on this money to cover basic needs. While most assumed it was a technical glitch, the real reason might be tied to a new R45 ATM withdrawal fee policy that has quietly taken effect for Postbank-issued SASSA cards. This unexpected rule has left many grant holders confused and unable to access their funds without incurring high charges. Many beneficiaries were unaware that a new fee structure was implemented by Postbank and commercial banks in July 2025, making certain ATM withdrawals chargeable if done outside of designated channels. The issue is especially affecting those using ATMs from private banks like Capitec, ABSA, or Standard Bank instead of Post Office ATMs or approved retailers. As a result, even though funds reflect in accounts, withdrawals are either denied or delayed, especially for those who don’t have sufficient balance to cover the new R45 deduction per withdrawal. Let’s break down what this new rule means, who is affected, and what alternative steps you can take to avoid these charges or failed transactions.
What Is the New R45 Withdrawal Fee Rule?
From July 2025, a new fee of R45 per withdrawal was introduced for SASSA card users making transactions at ATMs not owned by Postbank or approved retailers.
- The fee applies to Postbank-issued SASSA cards
- R45 is charged per transaction at commercial bank ATMs
- Free withdrawals are still available at retailers like Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay, and USave
- The fee is not charged at Post Office branches (if available)
- If your balance is low, the ATM may decline the transaction
- The fee was reportedly introduced due to system upgrades and financial sustainability issues
- Many users were not informed beforehand, creating widespread confusion
Which Transactions Are Free vs. Chargeable?
Here’s a breakdown of where and how you can access your money without facing the new fee.
| Location | Type of Transaction | Withdrawal Fee | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postbank / Post Office ATM | Cash Withdrawal | Free | May not be available in all areas |
| Shoprite, Boxer, Pick n Pay | Till Withdrawal | Free | Must make small purchase for access |
| Capitec ATM | Cash Withdrawal | R45 | Full amount + fee must be available |
| ABSA, FNB, Standard Bank ATM | Cash Withdrawal | R45 | Applies to all third-party ATMs |
| Online Balance Check | Balance Enquiry | Free | Using SASSA mobile app or Postbank site |
| ATM Balance Check | Balance Enquiry | R2 – R4 | Depending on the bank used |
| Retail POS (purchase) | Payment | Free | Only for items purchased |
Why Are SASSA Cards Not Working at ATMs?
Many users believe their cards have been blocked or deactivated. However, in most cases, the issue is due to insufficient balance to cover the R45 fee or outdated card details.
- R45 fee applies for ATM use at banks like Capitec or FNB
- If your grant amount is R350 and you try to withdraw it all, the R45 is not accounted for
- The ATM may decline due to “insufficient funds”
- Some cards may also require chip updates or renewal
- Technical issues are also reported due to system updates at Postbank
Common ATM Error Messages Seen
| Error Message | Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| “Transaction Declined – Contact Bank” | Insufficient funds for R45 fee |
| “Card Blocked – See Branch” | Expired or damaged card |
| “System Error – Try Later” | Bank server overload or updates |
| “Invalid PIN” | Wrong PIN entered too many times |
| “Card Not Supported” | ATM does not support Postbank card |
What Should You Do If Your Card Doesn’t Work?
If your card fails at the ATM, don’t panic. There are alternative ways to access your funds without incurring the R45 charge or technical failures.
- Use approved retailers for till-point withdrawals
- Visit a Post Office branch where service is still active
- Request a card reset at your nearest SASSA or Postbank office
- Use the SASSA mobile app to check balance and get alerts
- Don’t repeatedly try your PIN at an ATM – it may lock your card
Step-by-Step: How to Avoid R45 ATM Fees
Here’s how to protect your grant and access it without unnecessary deductions:
- Go to Shoprite, Boxer, or Pick n Pay
- Buy a small item (like bread or milk)
- Ask for a withdrawal at the till using your SASSA card
- Show your ID if requested
- No extra fee will be charged
What Has Postbank and SASSA Said About the Issue?
Postbank and SASSA have acknowledged the problem but placed the responsibility on beneficiaries to use the correct channels. They insist that the fees apply only at private ATMs and not at approved outlets.
- SASSA has advised users to use retailers or Post Office outlets
- Postbank claims the R45 fee is a standard bank processing charge
- There are no current plans to scrap the new fee
- Beneficiaries will need to adjust how they access funds
- No SMS notification or warning was sent before rollout, which has caused confusion
Timeline of Key Changes in 2025
| Date | Event / Update |
|---|---|
| July 1, 2025 | R45 withdrawal fee introduced at ATMs |
| July 5, 2025 | First public complaints began surfacing |
| July 15, 2025 | SASSA issued formal advisory on ATM use |
| July 18, 2025 | Postbank confirmed changes during press briefing |
| August 1, 2025 | Retail withdrawal use increased by 60% |
| August 6, 2025 | Several users report ATM transaction blocks |
| August 7, 2025 | SASSA hotline flooded with call complaints |
Departmental Contact Details for Help
If you’re facing continued issues, use the following official contact points to report or resolve your case:
| Department | Contact Number | Email Address | Office Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| SASSA National | 0800 60 10 11 | grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za | Mon–Fri: 8AM–4PM |
| Postbank Call Centre | 0800 53 54 55 | postbank@postoffice.co.za | Mon–Fri: 8AM–5PM |
| WhatsApp Support | 082 046 8553 | N/A | 24/7 auto-response |
| SASSA Western Cape | 021 469 0235 | wcgrantqueries@sassa.gov.za | Mon–Fri: 8AM–4PM |
| Nearest SASSA Office | Use locator on site | www.sassa.gov.za | Location based |
As the R45 withdrawal fee continues to impact vulnerable communities, it’s important to spread awareness and help one another find alternate ways to access these critical grants. Until policies change or further updates are issued, beneficiaries are advised to use approved retail points and stay updated through official SASSA communications.
FAQs of New R45 Withdrawal Fee Rule
Q1. Why is my SASSA card not working at the ATM?
A1. It could be due to the new R45 fee not being covered by your balance or a technical issue with Postbank.
Q2. How can I avoid the R45 ATM fee?
A2. Use your SASSA card at approved retailers like Shoprite or Boxer where withdrawals are free.
Q3. Can I still go to the Post Office for free withdrawals?
A3. Yes, but Post Office branches are limited and may not be available in all areas.
Q4. Will the R45 fee be removed soon?
A4. No official update suggests that it will be reversed. It’s a permanent change as of now.
Q5. Can I get help if my card is blocked?
A5. Yes, visit your nearest SASSA office or call Postbank to request a card reset or unblock.