QR Code System – In a major move to modernize social welfare payments, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that all grant withdrawals will shift to a QR code-based system by January 15, 2026. This initiative aims to replace the traditional SASSA gold cards, which are gradually being phased out due to expiration and security concerns. The new digital system is expected to simplify the withdrawal process, reduce fraud, and increase convenience for over 18 million beneficiaries across the country. The QR code system will enable beneficiaries to access their grants at ATMs, selected retailers, and SASSA service points using a scannable code that will be linked to their personal profiles. Unlike cards that can be lost, stolen, or cloned, QR codes will be dynamic and secure, generated via mobile phones or printed vouchers. This system will be especially beneficial for elderly, disabled, and rural residents who often face difficulty replacing lost or expired cards. The Department of Social Development has partnered with Postbank, Pick n Pay, Boxer, and selected retailers to support this massive transition. Beneficiaries are urged to register for the new system by December 31, 2024, to avoid disruptions in their January 2026 grant payments. Here’s everything you need to know about the new QR code-based withdrawal system, how it works, who needs to act, and what benefits it brings.
Why SASSA Is Replacing Cards with QR Code System
SASSA has reported multiple security issues and high maintenance costs related to gold cards. With cards expiring and replacements delayed, the agency has turned to QR codes as a cost-effective and safer alternative.
- Gold cards are being phased out due to expiration.
- High cases of card cloning and grant theft prompted urgent action.
- QR codes offer better security, speed, and convenience.
- Digital access will help reduce long queues at payout points.
- QR codes are harder to duplicate or misuse.
- Grants can still be withdrawn from ATMs or scanned at tills.
- Elderly beneficiaries can print QR vouchers if they don’t use smartphones.
QR Code System – Key Dates You Must Know
The transition will follow a strict national schedule to avoid disruptions.
| Key Milestone | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Announcement of QR system | June 2024 | Official rollout announcement by SASSA and Postbank |
| Registration for QR withdrawals | July–December 2024 | Beneficiaries must register through mobile app or nearest SASSA point |
| Last month of card withdrawals | December 2024 | Final window to use SASSA gold cards |
| Full transition to QR system | January 15, 2026 | All withdrawals to be QR code based from this date |
| Grace period for latecomers | Jan–Feb 2026 | Emergency re-verification allowed at SASSA offices |
| Rural area voucher support begins | February 2026 | Offline printable vouchers for non-digital users |
| Annual QR updates | Ongoing | QR re-authentication every 12 months |
How the QR Code System Works for Beneficiaries
Beneficiaries will no longer need a card to withdraw their grant. The new process is entirely digital but includes offline options for those without smartphones.
- Download the official SASSA QR App (or access via USSD for non-smartphones).
- Authenticate using ID number, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
- Receive a unique one-time-use QR code valid for 24 hours.
- Visit an ATM, Pick n Pay, Boxer, or SASSA kiosk with the code.
- Scan the code and collect your grant in cash or via till payout.
- Print paper QR voucher at SASSA office if you lack a smartphone.
QR Code System – Offline Access for Non-Digital Users
SASSA has accounted for rural and elderly users who lack smartphones or digital access.
- Visit local SASSA offices to get a printed QR code.
- Paper QR vouchers are usable at supported retailers and SASSA paypoints.
- Mobile vans will visit rural areas with QR scanning facilities.
- QR codes can be stored and reused if not expired within 24 hours.
Key Benefits of the QR Code System
The QR-based system is designed to improve both the user experience and operational efficiency.
- No more card replacements – Users don’t need to reapply when cards expire.
- Reduced fraud risk – Codes are one-time and unique to each user.
- Faster transactions – No card swiping or PIN input required.
- Better accessibility – Services extended to those without banking access.
- Eco-friendly – Less plastic, no physical production needed.
- 24/7 availability – QR code generation available any time via app or USSD.
Retailers Supporting QR Withdrawals
Several national and regional retailers are already integrated into the new system.
| Retailer Name | Withdrawal Option | Availability | Extra Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pick n Pay | Till payout & ATM | Nationwide branches | Cash-back offers for QR users |
| Boxer | Till payout & ATM | Township & rural focus | Fast-lane access for grant users |
| Shoprite/Checkers | Pending integration | Expected from March 2026 | Loyalty rewards under development |
| Selected ATMs | QR scan & dispense | Postbank and partner ATMs | Multi-language assistance |
| SASSA Mobile Vans | On-the-spot cashout | Rural zones | Monthly visits with printed vouchers |
What If You Don’t Switch by the Deadline?
If you fail to register by December 31, 2024, you risk delays or suspension of grant payments.
- SASSA gold cards will be invalid after January 15, 2026.
- Beneficiaries without QR access must re-verify identity at SASSA offices.
- Missed grants may only be paid after re-registration.
- Emergency QR code printing support will be limited in Jan–Feb 2026.
- Appeals will be allowed for delays caused by disability or distance.
Common Issues Expected & Their Solutions
With a national rollout, some glitches are expected. Here’s how SASSA plans to handle them:
- Login Errors on App – SASSA hotline support will reset credentials.
- QR Code Expired – New code can be generated immediately via app.
- Retailer Denied Scan – File complaint via SASSA toll-free or report via app.
- Long Queue in Office – Book time slot via SMS or online portal.
- Face/Fingerprint Mismatch – Visit biometric center for manual verification.
How to Register for QR Grant Withdrawals
SASSA has simplified the registration process to be completed in under 10 minutes.
- Visit the official SASSA QR portal or download the mobile app.
- Enter ID number, phone number, and grant type.
- Perform face scan or fingerprint scan to verify identity.
- Choose withdrawal method: mobile, printed voucher, or app QR code.
- Receive confirmation SMS or printed slip.
- Re-authentication is required every 12 months.
Documents Required
Make sure you have these ready:
- South African ID or Smart ID Card
- Proof of grant approval
- Recent cell phone number (linked to your profile)
- Biometric scan (facial or fingerprint)
- Physical address (for rural deliveries or mobile service eligibility)
National Rollout by Province: Who Gets It First?
The digital QR system will launch province-by-province between July and December 2024.
| Province | QR Registration Start | Priority Zones | Mobile Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | July 1, 2024 | Soweto, Alexandra | Available |
| Western Cape | July 15, 2024 | Cape Flats, Khayelitsha | Yes |
| KwaZulu-Natal | August 1, 2024 | Umlazi, Pietermaritzburg | Yes |
| Eastern Cape | August 15, 2024 | Mthatha, East London | Yes |
| Limpopo | September 1, 2024 | Polokwane, rural zones | Yes (vans weekly) |
| North West | September 15, 2024 | Mahikeng, Rustenburg | Yes |
| Free State | October 1, 2024 | Bloemfontein | Limited |
| Mpumalanga | October 15, 2024 | Mbombela, Ermelo | Yes |
| Northern Cape | November 1, 2024 | Kimberly, remote areas | Yes (vans monthly) |
The transition to QR code withdrawals marks a historic shift in South Africa’s social assistance program. While the change may seem challenging for some users, it promises long-term benefits in terms of security, convenience, and accessibility. SASSA urges all beneficiaries to take action well before the deadline to ensure they continue receiving their grants without interruption in 2026.
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q1: Will my old SASSA card still work in 2026?
No, SASSA cards will stop working after January 15, 2026. You must switch to the QR system.
Q2: What if I don’t have a smartphone?
You can print QR vouchers from a SASSA office or use a basic phone with USSD.
Q3: Is the QR code safe from fraud?
Yes, it is a one-time-use code valid only for 24 hours and linked to your ID and biometrics.
Q4: Can I use the QR at any ATM?
Only selected Postbank and partner ATMs currently support QR withdrawals.
Q5: Will rural areas be supported?
Yes, mobile vans and printed voucher options are being expanded in rural regions.