How to Write an Affidavit for the SASSA Child Support Grant?

If you are in urge to apply for the SASSA Child Support grant but one or more required documents are missing then you will need to have an affidavit. Yes, you can use a sworn statement to prove that you’re a legal guardian or the child is under your custody to look after.

But wait, how do you write and get the approval of this affidavit? That is the reason you are here. And I have prepared this guide for all the SASSA beneficiaries who are looking for a way to write an affidavit for a SASSA Child Support grant.

When Will You Need an Affidavit for SASSA Grant Application?

An affidavit is a statement that is sworn to be true and can be used as proof when applying for the SASSA Child Support Grant if certain documents are not available. You will need to obtain an affidavit in the following situations:

Proving Guardianship or Caretaker Role:

If you are not the biological parent but instead are in charge of the child’s welfare, SASSA demands proof that the child is under your supervision, for their well-being. In instances such as this, an affidavit serves as official documentation of your guardianship.

Missing Birth Certificate:

An affidavit may be submitted as temporary proof of identity for a child whose birth certificate is unavailable so that the child can obtain necessary financial support without delay. An affidavit.

A notary public usually witnesses the signing of an affidavit. A notary public is someone authorized by the state to serve as a neutral witness for the signing of important documents.

You must clearly say in your affidavit what your relationship is to the child, why the documents are missing, and that the child is living with you. 

The affidavit must be signed before a Commissioner of Oaths, such as a police officer or a notary public, to be legally effective.

In these circumstances, using an affidavit lets you continue with your SASSA grant application and not be stalled by unnecessary delays.

How to Write an Affidavit for the SASSA Child Support Grant?

When applying for the Child Support Grant at SASSA, it is possible that you may not have all of the required documents. This may seem like a huge setback, but there are ways to work around that. One of those ways is to submit an affidavit, which can serve as a stand-in for those missing documents.

To write and submit your affidavit correctly, follow these steps.

Step 1: Gather Required Information

Prior to composing the affidavit, confirm that you possess:

• Your South African ID or passport (if available).
• The birth certificate of the child (if not available, the affidavit will serve as a temporary substitute).
• Any documents that back up your claim of being the child’s guardian or caretaker (like a school letter or clinic card).

Step 2: Write the Affidavit

Your affidavit should include:

• Your full name, ID number, and contact details.
• The child’s full name and date of birth.
• Your relationship with the child (e.g., biological parent, grandparent, or legal guardian).
• The reason for the affidavit (e.g., missing birth certificate or proving legal custody).
• A declaration that all information is true and that you are responsible for the child’s care.

Step 3: Get the Affidavit Sworn and Signed

Take the written affidavit to a Commissioner of Oaths, such as:

• A police station.
• A magistrate’s court.
• A lawyer or notary public.
• The officer will witness your signature and stamp the document to make it legally valid.

Step 4: Submit the Affidavit to SASSA

Once signed, submit the affidavit along with your SASSA Child Support Grant application at your nearest SASSA office. Keep a copy for your records in case of follow-ups.

What is the Alternate to Affidavit for SASSA Grants?

If you are missing important documents while applying for a SASSA grant, an affidavit is commonly required. However, an alternative to an affidavit is a sworn statement made in front of a Commissioner of Oaths.

A sworn statement serves the same purpose as an affidavit, it is a legally recognized declaration confirming your situation. You can make this statement at a police station, magistrate’s court, or before a notary public. The official will witness your declaration and stamp the document to confirm its authenticity.

In your sworn statement, you must clearly state:

• Your full name, ID number, and contact details.
• The child’s details (for a child support grant).
• The reason for missing documents (such as a lost birth certificate).
• A declaration of truth, stating that all information is correct.

Once signed and stamped, submit the sworn statement along with your SASSA grant application at your nearest SASSA office. Always keep a copy for your records.

A sworn statement is a legally valid substitute for an affidavit and ensures that you can still proceed with your grant application without unnecessary delays.

F.A.Q

Can I apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant without an affidavit?

Yes, but only if you have all required documents. If any are missing, an affidavit or sworn statement is necessary.

Where can I get an affidavit for my SASSA grant application?

You can get an affidavit at a police station, magistrate’s court, or from a notary public.

How long does it take for SASSA to process an affidavit-based application?

Processing times vary, but applications with missing documents may take longer for verification.

Can someone else write the affidavit on my behalf?

Yes, but you must personally sign it in front of a Commissioner of Oaths for it to be valid.

Conclusion

So this is the method you can use to apply for the SASSA Child Support grant when you don’t have either the birth certificate of your child or your relationship proof with the child. This facility is very important as there are many parents who are raising a child where they don’t have their birth certificates. So you need to follow this guide and write the affidavit carefully and apply for this much needed grant.