Lost Your SASSA Card? Here’s How to Report, Replace, and Secure Your Grant Payments

Losing your SASSA card can be stressful, especially since it’s crucial for accessing your grant payments. Fortunately, SASSA provides a straightforward process for replacing lost or stolen cards, so you can continue to receive your welfare funds without interruption. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step you need to take to secure a new card and protect your funds.

Step 1: Report the Lost or Stolen Card Immediately

The first step is to report your lost or stolen SASSA card right away. Quick reporting ensures your card is deactivated, preventing unauthorized access to your funds.

How to Report a Lost or Stolen SASSA Card?

You can report your lost card by:

1. Calling the SASSA Helpline: Dial 0800 60 10 11 and provide required details.
2. Visiting a SASSA Office: Go to your nearest SASSA office to report in person.

Provide the following information:

• Full name and ID number
• SASSA card number (if known)
• Date and location of last use

SASSA will deactivate your card immediately and send a one-time PIN (OTP) to verify your identity. This stops anyone else from accessing your funds.

Step 2: Complete the Lost Card Affidavit Form

After reporting, you need to fill out a Lost Card Affidavit. This legal document confirms your card is truly lost or stolen.

How to Obtain the Lost Card Affidavit Form?

Get the form by:

1. Visiting a SASSA Office or Post Office: Collect the form in person.
2. Downloading from SASSA’s Website: Print it from sassa.gov.za.

Fill out the form accurately, including:

• Your ID number and contact information
• SASSA grant reference number
• Lost card number (if available)
• Date and location of loss

Attach the following documents:

• Certified copy of your ID (both sides)
• Copy of your latest SASSA grant slip
• Police case number (if the card was stolen)

Step 3: Submit the Completed Affidavit Form

Once the Lost Card Affidavit form is filled out, submit it along with the required documents. You have several submission options:

1. In-Person: Submit at your nearest SASSA office.
2. Post Office: Any branch can receive your affidavit.
3. Email: Scan and email your documents to [email protected].

Be sure to get a receipt or reference number to confirm your submission. SASSA will then process your request for a replacement card.

Step 4: Collect and Activate Your New SASSA Card

You should receive your replacement SASSA card within 5-7 working days. It will be sent to the SASSA office or Post Office where you submitted your affidavit.

Collecting Your New SASSA Card

When collecting your card, bring:

• Proof of ID
• SASSA grant reference number

SASSA will activate your new card upon pickup. For security, set a new PIN that differs from the previous one to protect your funds.

Key Points for Managing a Lost SASSA Card

Here’s a quick recap for handling a lost or stolen SASSA card:

1. Report the loss immediately to deactivate the card.
2. Complete the Lost Card Affidavit form accurately.
3. Submit the affidavit and documents through SASSA office, Post Office, or email.
4. Collect and activate your replacement card, setting a new PIN.

By following these steps quickly, you can prevent unauthorized access to your funds and ensure timely grant payments.

Additional Security Tips for Your SASSA Card

To keep your new SASSA card secure, consider these tips:

• Keep Your Card Safe: Store your card in a secure place.
• Do Not Share Your PIN: Only you should know your PIN; avoid writing it down.
• Stay in Contact with SASSA: For any concerns, call the SASSA helpline at 0800 60 10 11.

By acting promptly and following SASSA’s official steps, you can regain access to your grant funds and avoid interruptions.