How to Apply for SASSA Child Support Grant in 2025

The Child Support Grant is a social grant provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to assist needy primary caregivers in raising children under 18. This guide outlines the eligibility criteria, application process, payment details, and what to do if your application is not approved, ensuring you can access this essential financial support in 2025.

SASSA Child Support Grant.

Table of Contents

Do You Qualify for the Child Support Grant?

To qualify for the Child Support Grant, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Be the child’s primary caregiver (e.g., parent, grandparent, or a child over 16 heading a family). If not the parent, provide proof of primary caregiving through:
    • An affidavit from a police official.
    • A social worker’s report.
    • An affidavit from the biological parent.
    • A letter from the principal of the child’s school.
  • Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
  • Not earn more than R52,800 per year if single or R105,600 combined if married.
  • Both you and the child must live in South Africa.

The child must:

  • Be under 18 years old.
  • Not be cared for in a state institution.
  • Live with the primary caregiver who is not paid to look after the child.

Note: You cannot receive this grant for more than six non-biological or non-legally adopted children.

How Much Will You Get?

You will receive R560 per month per child (comprising a base amount of R560 plus a top-up of R280).

How Will You Be Paid?

SASSA will pay the grant through one of the following methods:

  • Cash at a specific pay point on a particular day.
  • Electronic deposit into your bank or Postbank account (note: the bank may charge a fee for this service).
  • An institution acting as the administrator of the grant.

Note: If you are unable to collect the money yourself, you can appoint a procurator at a SASSA office or give someone power of attorney to collect the grant on your behalf.

When May the Child’s Grant Be Reviewed?

SASSA may decide to review the child’s grant based on the income you declared during your application. You will be notified three months in advance of the review date or when a life certificate (proof that the child is still alive) is due. If you receive the grant through a bank, institution, or procurator, you must complete a life certificate for the child at a SASSA office every year.

When May the Child’s Grant Be Suspended?

The child’s grant may be suspended for the following reasons:

  • A change in your circumstances (e.g., increased income).
  • The outcome of a review.
  • Failure to cooperate during a review.
  • Committing fraud or misrepresenting the child.
  • A mistake made during the approval of the grant.
  • The child is no longer in your care.

When Will the Child’s Grant Lapse?

The grant will lapse if:

  • The child passes away.
  • The child is admitted to a state institution.
  • The caregiver does not claim the grant for three consecutive months.
  • The child is absent from South Africa.
  • The child turns 18 (at the end of the month).

How to Apply for the Grant

To apply for the Child Support Grant, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the nearest SASSA office.
  2. Bring the following documents:
    • Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID and the child’s birth certificate. If you don’t have an ID or the child’s birth certificate:
      • Complete an affidavit on a standard SASSA format in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (not a SASSA official).
      • Provide a sworn statement by a reputable person (e.g., councillor, traditional leader, social worker, minister of religion) who knows you and the child.
      • Proof of application for an ID and/or birth certificate at the Department of Home Affairs.
      • A temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs (if applicable).
      • Baptismal certificate (if available).
      • Road to health clinic card (if available).
      • School report (if available).
    • Proof of any maintenance you receive for the child.
    • Proof of your earnings.
    • Your marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • If divorced, the court order confirming custody of the child.
    • If one or both parents are deceased or missing, the death certificate or a missing person’s report from the police.
  3. Complete the application form in the presence of a SASSA official (only you or the official may fill out the form).
  4. Receive a receipt as proof of your application.

What If Your Application Is Not Approved?

If your application is not approved, SASSA will inform you in writing with the reasons for the decision. If you disagree, you can appeal to the Minister of Social Development at the national Department of Social Development within 90 days of receiving the notification.

How Long Does It Take?

It may take up to three months to process your application. If approved, payments will start from the date you applied.

How Much Does It Cost?

The application process is free.

FAQs for SASSA Child Support Grant

Can I apply for the grant if I’m not the child’s parent?

Yes, you can apply if you are the child’s primary caregiver (e.g., grandparent or a child over 16 heading a family). You must provide proof of primary caregiving, such as an affidavit from a police official, a social worker’s report, an affidavit from the biological parent, or a letter from the child’s school principal.

What if I don’t have an ID or the child’s birth certificate?

If you lack an ID or the child’s birth certificate, you must complete a SASSA affidavit in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (not a SASSA official) and provide a sworn statement from a reputable person verifying your identity and the child’s. You must also show proof of applying for an ID or birth certificate at the Department of Home Affairs.

Can I apply for more than six children?

You cannot receive the Child Support Grant for more than six children who are not your biological or legally adopted children.

What should I do if the grant is suspended?

If the grant is suspended due to changes in circumstances, failure to cooperate during a review, fraud, or a mistake in approval, contact your nearest SASSA office to address the issue. You may need to provide updated information or appeal the decision.