State-owned bank warns customers not to use Post Office branches

The South African Post Office (SAPO) has requested that Postbank customers not visit Post Office branches to access banking services starting 2 May 2026.

From this date, Postbank-related transactions and support services will no longer be available at any SAPO branch.

Instead, Postbank customers are urged to make use of the bank’s designated service channels and platforms for their banking needs.

This change follows the expiry of the Service Level Agreement between SAPO and Postbank on 31 March 2026, after which Postbank chose not to enter into a new agreement with the Post Office.

“SAPO kindly requests that Postbank customers do not visit Post Office branches for any Postbank banking services, as our staff will unfortunately be unable to assist with these transactions,” it said.

“Postbank customers are encouraged to make use of Postbank’s designated service channels and platforms for all their banking needs.” 

The SAPO urged Postbank customers requiring assistance to contact the bank directly through its official channels, including its toll-free telephone line, WhatsApp, and email.

This comes as Postbank is inching closer to becoming a full-service commercial bank in South Africa.

In March 2026, the bank successfully registered as a licenced financial services provider (FSP) with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).

This licence empowers Postbank to provide financial advice and intermediary services related to financial products.

Before obtaining this licence, Postbank could only accept deposits. This meant it operated as a so-called “savings bank”.

To maintain its licence, Postbank will need to meet stringent regulatory requirements covering governance, compliance, risk management, operational capability and consumer protection.

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies previously said the licence provides additional assurance to Postbank customers and social grant beneficiaries.

With the licence obtained, customers can be assured that Postbank’s services are delivered under a regulatory regime designed to protect consumers and ensure transparency and accountability, the department said.

“This achievement represents another important step in Postbank’s long-term journey towards becoming a fully-fledged commercial bank that serves the needs of South Africans while contributing to the strength and stability of the country’s financial system,” it said.