New SASSA Fuel Card – South African citizens who rely on SASSA grants are set to benefit from a brand-new support initiative – the SASSA Fuel Card. Designed to combat rising transport costs and empower grant beneficiaries with mobility, the card offers a monthly R550 petrol credit for eligible individuals. Applications for the SASSA Fuel Card are now open and will be accepted until 15 October 2025. With fuel prices climbing steadily and many citizens struggling to afford transportation, this initiative by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) comes as a much-needed relief. Whether it’s for commuting to work, attending medical appointments, or getting children to school, the R550 petrol credit can significantly ease financial burdens. The program has been piloted in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal and is now being rolled out nationwide. Only grant recipients – including those receiving the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, and Child Support Grant – will be eligible to apply. Applications are processed through participating fuel stations, online portals, and select post offices. If you’re one of the millions depending on monthly SASSA payouts and you’re constantly battling the high cost of transport, this new fuel card could bring real change to your daily life. But be quick – the deadline for applications is 15 October!
What is the New SASSA Fuel Card and How Does it Work?
The SASSA Fuel Card is a government-backed prepaid fuel card that offers monthly petrol credit to grant recipients.
- Offers a fixed R550 monthly credit.
- Can be used at over 4,000 fuel stations across South Africa.
- Linked directly to your SASSA account.
- No cash withdrawal option – fuel purchases only.
- Activated automatically on the 3rd of each month.
- Requires annual renewal via the same application portal.
Key Benefits of the New SASSA Fuel Card
This initiative isn’t just about petrol—it’s about restoring freedom of movement and financial dignity.
- Reduces transport-related financial stress.
- Encourages job-seeking and school attendance.
- Lowers the risk of informal transport borrowing.
- Safe and secure digital card system.
- Can be used at Shell, BP, Engen, Caltex, and Sasol stations.
- Fraud protection included through chip-and-pin access.
Who is Eligible for the R550 Petrol Credit?
SASSA has laid out clear eligibility guidelines to ensure the right people benefit from this scheme.
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- Must be a current SASSA grant recipient.
- Monthly household income must be below R6,000.
- Must own or regularly operate a motor vehicle or scooter.
- Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Only one fuel card per household is allowed.
- Cardholder must be 18 years or older.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants are expected to provide valid documentation to ensure fair distribution.
- Copy of South African ID or Smart ID Card.
- SASSA grant proof of receipt (latest 3 months).
- Valid motor vehicle registration papers or affidavit (if borrowed).
- Proof of residence not older than 3 months.
- Bank statement for last 3 months.
- Passport-sized photograph.
How to Apply for the New SASSA Fuel Card
Eligible individuals can choose between online and in-person application modes.
- Visit the official SASSA Fuel Card Portal: www.sassafuelcard.org.za
- Log in using your SASSA ID number and registered phone number.
- Complete the application form with vehicle details.
- Upload supporting documents.
- Select your preferred fuel station provider.
- Submit and await SMS confirmation.
Offline Application Points
You can also apply in person at any of the following locations:
- SASSA regional offices (nationwide)
- Post Office branches participating in the scheme
- Designated Engen and Shell stations (Gauteng, KZN, WC)
- Department of Social Development mobile units
Important Dates, Limits & Rollout Schedule
Here is a full breakdown of the timeline and what beneficiaries need to know:
| Event | Date/Detail |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 20 July 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 15 October 2025 |
| First Fuel Credit Load | 3 November 2025 |
| Monthly Credit Value | R550 |
| Card Renewal Frequency | Once every 12 months |
| Max Cards Per Household | One |
| Regions Covered in Phase 1 | Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape |
| Fuel Station Partners | Shell, Engen, BP, Caltex, Sasol |
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application
Several applicants have already faced rejections due to avoidable errors. Keep these in mind:
Incomplete Documentation
Missing paperwork is one of the biggest reasons for rejection.
- Always attach recent proof of grant.
- Include address verification not older than 90 days.
- Ensure ID copy is clear and valid.
Providing Incorrect Vehicle Details
Make sure the vehicle information matches your SASSA or affidavit records.
- If borrowing a vehicle, attach signed affidavit from the owner.
- Registration must be current and active.
- Verify all entered data before submission.
Duplicate Applications
Multiple family members cannot apply for the same household.
- Only the primary SASSA recipient may apply.
- Repeated applications may trigger system flags and block approval.
- If denied once, wait 30 days before reapplying.
Where Can You Use the SASSA Fuel Card?
This card is accepted at most national fuel brands partnered with SASSA.
| Fuel Brand | Coverage | Card Accepted | Extras Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shell | National | Yes | Loyalty points |
| Engen | National | Yes | Car wash discounts |
| Sasol | National | Yes | Mini-checks on site |
| BP | National | Yes | Partner with Pick n Pay |
| Caltex | Limited | Yes | High petrol quality |
| Total | No | No | Not enrolled in scheme |
Departmental Contact Details for Assistance
If you face issues while applying or checking your fuel card status, contact the relevant departments:
| Department | Contact Number | Email Address |
|---|---|---|
| SASSA Fuel Card Helpdesk | 0800 601 011 | [email protected] |
| Department of Social Development | 012 312 7500 | [email protected] |
| Card Issuing Unit (Post Office) | 0860 111 502 | [email protected] |
| Engen Fuel Assistance | 0800 364 636 | [email protected] |
| Shell SASSA Desk | 0800 980 222 | [email protected] |
Please ensure all inquiries include your SASSA ID number and fuel card reference (if issued).
This initiative is a step forward in making essential transport more accessible to South Africans in need. With the rising cost of living, the SASSA Fuel Card offers both support and opportunity. Be sure to apply before the 15 October 2025 deadline to secure your benefit.
FAQs of New SASSA Fuel Card
Q1. Can I use the SASSA Fuel Card to buy groceries or draw cash?
No, the card can only be used for fuel purchases at approved stations.
Q2. What happens if I lose my card?
You must report it to the SASSA Fuel Desk immediately to block misuse and request a reissue.
Q3. Is the petrol credit carried over if unused?
No, monthly credit expires at the end of each month and does not roll over.
Q4. Can unemployed youth apply for the fuel card?
Only if they are SASSA grant recipients and meet the other eligibility criteria.
Q5. Will the fuel amount increase in the future?
As of now, R550 is fixed. Future increments will depend on annual government review.
