Social grants to be paid today

merchants or stores and from April 3 we will pay the remaining 22%, and these are people who receive their grants in cash at paypoints.”

Diseko added that when the first of the month fell on a weekend, grant payments were traditionally shifted to the first working day of the month.

“This is standard practice because paypoints aren’t open on weekends. Nothing has changed in our procedure and grants will be paid as per normal practice.”

On Monday beneficiaries can withdraw money from all traditional paypoints, including merchants, points of sale and banks.

Beneficiaries endured weeks of uncertainty over whether they would be paid grants, since the contract with grant distribution company Cash Paymaster Services was supposed to end on March 31.

Special provision will be made for the busiest merchants and ATMs around the country, and will see regional executive managers deployed to assist beneficiaries with enquiries.

Diseko added that anyone experiencing any problems should make use of the operation centre.

“We are more than ready to carry out this payment cycle in terms of systems and required human resources.

“Anybody who is uncertain or has questions can call 0800 60 10 11 because our call centre will be open this weekend.”

First National Bank spokeswoman Lee-Ann van Zyl said Sassa beneficiaries would be able to access their money. “FNB ATMs are operating normally and users that have funds will be able to withdraw.” — aoreillya@