Getting your SASSA grant has become much easier since the partnership between SASSA and major retailers like Checkers. You can now collect your grant while doing your weekly grocery shopping, making the process more convenient and dignified for millions of South Africans.
Why Collect SASSA Grant from Checkers?
SASSA has expanded its partnerships with major supermarket chains such as Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave and Boxer, providing grant recipients with safer, more convenient collection points across the country. This move addresses long queues at post offices and puts more control into beneficiaries’ hands.
The benefits of collecting your grant from Checkers include:
- Convenience – Shop for groceries while collecting your money
- Safety – Reduced risk compared to traditional paypoints
- Shorter queues – Less crowding than post offices
- Extended hours – Collect during regular store operating hours
- Nationwide access – Available at participating Checkers stores across South Africa
Essential Requirements to Collect SASSA Grant from Checkers
Before heading to any Checkers store, make sure you have these items ready:
For SRD R370 Grant Collection
To collect your grant at any Shoprite, Checkers, Usave or selected OK Foods supermarket, you must produce your ID and provide your cellphone number. It must be the same cellphone number with which you registered on the Sassa database.
- Valid South African ID document (green barcoded ID book or smart card)
- The same cellphone number used for your SASSA registration
- SMS confirmation from SASSA with your collection details
For Other SASSA Grants (Old Age, Disability, Child Support)
Visit any participating Shoprite, Checkers, Boxer, Usave, or selected Pick n Pay stores. Bring along your valid South African ID (or temporary ID). Collect your Postbank Black Card – free of charge.
- SASSA Gold Card (still valid until replaced) or Postbank Black Card
- Valid South African ID
- PIN for your SASSA card
Process to Collect SASSA Grant from Checkers
For SRD R370 Grant Collection
- Check Your SASSA Status: Visit srd.sassa.gov.za to confirm your payment is approved and ready for collection.
- Wait for SASSA SMS: Once SASSA approves your application for the SRD R370 grant, you will get an SMS. Your R370 collection point and payment date are provided in the SMS.
- Visit Checkers on the Specified Date: Go to the Checkers store mentioned in your SMS on the collection date provided.
- Present Required Documents: Approach the cashier or customer service desk and inform them you’re collecting your SASSA grant. Present your ID and provide your registered cellphone number.
- Receive OTP Confirmation: A confirmation one time pin (OTP) will be sent to this number to prevent fraud. Enter the OTP when requested.
- Collect Your R370: Once verified, the cashier will hand you your R370 grant in cash. Count the money before leaving the store.
For Other SASSA Grants Using Cards
- Locate the Till Point: Find an active till point at the Checkers store.
- Present Your SASSA Card: Use your SASSA Gold Card or new Postbank Black Card at the point-of-sale terminal.
- Enter Your PIN: Input your 4-digit PIN to authorize the transaction.
- Collect Your Cash: Withdraw the amount you need and take your receipt.
Important Card Updates for 2025
SASSA Gold Card Transition
All current SASSA Gold Cards in everyone’s possession will stop working on 28 February 2025, irrespective of the expiry date written on the card. However, recent updates show the deadline has been extended.
Getting Your New Postbank Black Card
Grant beneficiaries can replace their SASSA Gold Cards with new Postbank Black Cards conveniently where they collect their grant payments, mainly at retailers that include Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, Boxer nationwide.
Requirements for New Card:
- Valid South African ID or temporary ID
- No fees required – the card is free
- Visit any participating Checkers store
Benefits of the Black Card:
- Enhanced security features
- Works immediately after collection
- Accepted at all ATMs and retailers
- Free monthly services included
Which Checkers Stores Accept SASSA Grants?
Most Checkers stores nationwide participate in the SASSA collection program. However, confirm with your local store before your first visit. The program includes:
- Standard Checkers supermarkets
- Checkers Hyper stores
- Selected Checkers locations as designated by SASSA
Note: Some specialized outlets may not participate in the program.
Alternative Collection Methods
If Checkers isn’t convenient for you, other options include:
Retail Partners
Traditional Methods
- ATMs using your SASSA card
- Post offices (being phased out gradually)
- Cash pay points in rural areas
Common Issues While Collecting Grant at Checkers
“Grant Not Ready for Collection”
Check your SASSA status online first. Your grant might still be processing or require additional verification.
“Cellphone Number Not Recognized”
Ensure you’re using the exact number registered with SASSA. If changed, update your details through the official SASSA portal.
“ID Not Found in System”
SASSA verifies each beneficiary’s details monthly before payment approval and updates its online database for status enquiries. Wait for the next update cycle or contact SASSA directly.
Store Says “System Down”
Technical issues occasionally affect the collection system. Try again later or visit another participating store.
Safety Tips When Collecting Your Grant
- Don’t share your PIN with anyone
- Count your money before leaving the store
- Keep your ID and cards secure
- Avoid collecting large amounts late at night
- Stay alert near payment points – fraudsters are common
FAQs About Collect SASSA Grant from Checkers
Can I collect someone else’s SASSA grant from Checkers?
Only if you have official authorization. For card-based grants, the beneficiary must be present. For SRD grants, only the registered person can collect using their ID and registered phone number.
What happens if I don’t collect my grant on the specified date?
Your grant remains available for collection. SASSA payments don’t expire immediately, but check with SASSA if you’ve missed several collection periods.
Can I collect my grant from any Checkers store in South Africa?
Yes, once your payment is ready, you can collect from any participating Checkers store nationwide, not just the one mentioned in your SMS.
Do I need to pay any fees when collecting from Checkers?
No collection fees apply when withdrawing your SASSA grant from Checkers. The service is free for beneficiaries.
What if the Checkers store can’t find my grant in their system?
First verify your grant status online at srd.sassa.gov.za. If approved, try another participating store or contact SASSA’s toll-free number 0800 60 10 11.
Can I buy groceries with my SASSA card at Checkers?
Yes, if you have a SASSA Gold Card or Postbank Black Card, you can use it for purchases at Checkers, subject to your available balance.
Conclusion
Collecting your SASSA grant from Checkers offers a convenient, safe way to access your monthly payments while handling your shopping needs. Whether you’re receiving the SRD R370 grant or other SASSA benefits, the process is straightforward when you have the right documents and follow the proper steps. Remember to keep your contact details updated with SASSA and always verify your grant status before heading to collect. With over 28 million South Africans who rely on SASSA grants now having improved access through retail partnerships, this system represents a significant step forward in dignified social support.
