Postbank has announced that from 1 May 2026, customers will no longer be able to access cash deposit, withdrawal and related services at the South African Post Office (SAPO) branches, as these services move to alternative banking channels.
The transition means customers who previously relied on Post Office branches must now use Postbank’s expanded network, which includes retail outlets, Standard Bank and its ATMs.
Social grant beneficiaries can continue to enjoy access to their payments through retailers and Standard Bank ATMs.
“Importantly, this change does not affect social grant beneficiaries in any way. All South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients will continue to receive their grants as usual through existing channels, including retail partners and Standard Bank ATMs. There are no changes to how grants are paid, accessed or managed through Postbank,” the bank said on Wednesday.
As part of the new arrangement, Postbank customers will be able to deposit and withdraw cash through Standard Bank and participating retailers nationwide.
Cash deposits can be made at Standard Bank branches and ATMs, subject to the bank’s transaction limits and fees. Withdrawals will be available at Standard Bank ATMs as well as retail stores using a cardless solution.
Customers can also access support services, including account management and statements, through Postbank’s Contact Centre via telephone, WhatsApp and email.
The move forms part of a broader strategy to improve customer experience and expand access to modern, community-based banking services.
It also marks the final phase of the bank’s multi-year transition away from SAPO branches, following the migration of social grant payments completed in March 2023.
Postbank said it has invested more than R500 million over the past three years in upgrading technology and infrastructure to ensure customers have access to better, more reliable banking services.
The bank has urged customers to remain vigilant against fraud, warning that neither Postbank nor Standard Bank will ever request PINs or one-time passwords in person or through calls, messaging platforms or email.
Postbank said the new channels are designed to reduce travel time, improve convenience and make banking services more accessible.
Postbank Chief Commercial Officer Thamsanqa Cele said the changes are aimed at advancing financial inclusion.
“At the heart of Postbank’s mandate is financial inclusion; ensuring that every South African has access to safe, reliable and dignified banking services. This change allows us to serve our customers better by providing more accessible and efficient banking channels that are closer to their communities,” Cele said.
Customers requiring assistance or information on nearby service points can contact the Postbank Contact Centre on 0800 53 54 55.
The bank added that it remains committed to rolling out additional customer-focused banking channels in the future. - SAnews.gov.za
