SASSA Foster Child Grant

You will be relieved to know that SASSA has a grant for foster parents who need financial aid to raise their children. The grant name is “SASSA Foster Child Grant”. This is implemented for those who require financial support when they are raising a foster child.

Read this guide to know how to check grant status, payment dates, age limit to apply, and how to apply online.

Check SASSA Foster Child Grant Status

Those foster parents who have applied for the SASSA Foster Child grant can check the grant application status now. The status check process is not available on the official SASSA website. You can check the other grant status like SRD R370 grant status online.

Here is how to check your Foster Child application status:

1. Use the Google maps or other maps applications to find out the nearest SASSA office.
2. Take your ID card and phone along with you and visit the office.
3. Now go to the status check desk and ask the staff for your status.
4. Provide your ID number and phone number to the staff member.
5. Get the grant application status from there.

SASSA Foster Child Grant Payment Dates 2025

Has your application status been approved? Now you need to note down your grant payment date so you can collect the payment at the right time. The complete schedule of SASSA Foster Child grant payment dates is now published on this website. Just visit our SASSA payment dates 2025 page and check out all the paydays for the SASSA grants.

What Is the Eligibility Criteria for SASSA Foster Child Grant?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Foster Child Grant is a financial assistance program designed to support foster parents in providing for children under their care. 

This grant ensures that vulnerable children receive the necessary care and support they need. However, there are specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet to qualify for the grant.

Legal Foster Care Order

• The child must be legally placed under foster care through a court order issued under the Children’s Act.
• Only children placed in foster care by a court ruling are eligible.

Foster Parent Requirements

• The applicant must be the child’s legally recognized foster parent.
• The foster parent must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or recognized refugee.
• The applicant and child must reside in South Africa.

Age Limit of the Child

• The child must be under the age of 18.
• If the child turns 18 but is still in school, the foster parent can apply for an extension until the child completes their education.

Financial Need

• The grant is not subject to a means test, as foster care is considered a protective rather than a poverty-based grant.
• However, the grant is to support the child’s basic needs, including food, education, and healthcare.

Medical and Special Considerations

• If the foster child has a disability, the foster parent may apply for additional support through the Care Dependency Grant if the child requires full-time care.

What is the SASSA Foster Child Grant Amount for 2025?

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has set the Foster Child grant payment to R1 180 per month for one child. This payment is fair for a child who needs foster care. The parents should follow a means test to qualify for this payment.

What Documents Are Needed to Apply for a Foster Child Care Grant?

Foster parents have to submit the following documents:

1. Identification Documents

• A certified copy of the foster parent’s South African ID (or valid permit if a refugee or permanent resident).
• A certified copy of the foster child’s birth certificate (if available).
• If the child does not have a birth certificate, an affidavit from the Department of Home Affairs will be required.

2. Foster Care Court Order

• A court order proving that the applicant is the legally recognized foster parent of the child.
• This document is issued under the Children’s Act and is essential for grant approval.

3. Proof of Residency

• Proof of address (such as a utility bill or an official letter) confirming that the foster parent and child reside in South Africa.

4. Bank Account Details (Optional)

• If the foster parent prefers to receive the grant via direct deposit, they must provide bank account details.

5. Additional Supporting Documents (If Applicable)

• If the child is disabled or requires full-time care, a medical report or assessment from a registered doctor will be needed.
• If the birth certificate is not available, you need to submit a sworn statement with an affidavit.

Apply for SASSA Foster Child Grant

Step 1: Visit the Nearest SASSA Office

• Locate your nearest SASSA office and visit it during working hours. Ensure you carry original copies and certified photocopies of all the required documents.

Step 2: Navigate to the Foster Child Grant Section

• Once you arrive at the SASSA office, proceed to the Foster Child Grant department. Inform the reception staff that you are applying for the Foster Child Grant, and they will guide you to the correct section.

Step 3: Request the SASSA Foster Child Grant Application Form

• Approach a SASSA officer and request the official Foster Child Grant application form. The officer may ask to verify your documents before handing you the form.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form in the Presence of the Officer

• Carefully fill out the form while the officer is present to provide guidance if needed.
• Double-check that all information is correct and matches your documents.
• Ensure that all required fields, including personal details, child’s details, and banking information (if applicable), are completed.

Step 5: Attach All Documents to the Form

• Staple all required documents to the completed application form.
• Ensure all documents are correctly attached and in order.
• The SASSA officer will review your documents to confirm everything is in place.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

• Hand over your completed application form along with the attached documents to the SASSA officer.
• The officer will review your application and provide a receipt or reference number as proof of submission. Keep this safe for future inquiries.