If you are caring for a child placed in your custody by a court, the foster care grant can provide essential financial support to help with their basic needs. This guide explains everything you need to know about the foster care grant in South Africa, including who qualifies, how to apply, payment details, and tips for managing the grant effectively.

What is the Foster Care Grant?

The Foster Care Grant is a social assistance program provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to support children who have been placed in the care of foster parents through a legal court order. It is designed to help cover the costs of raising a child who is not biologically your own but is under your legal care due to abandonment, neglect, abuse, or orphaning.

This grant is specifically meant for children under the age of 18 who are in foster care, and it helps ensure they receive basic needs such as food, clothing, education, and medical care. The money is paid monthly to the foster parent or guardian responsible for the child’s well-being.

Unlike other social grants like the Child Support Grant, the foster care grant requires a legal court placement and does not involve a means test, meaning it’s not based on your income level. The focus is on the child’s best interest and ensuring that they are cared for in a safe, stable environment.

Foster parents must renew the grant periodically, usually every two years, as it is linked to the court order and the child’s ongoing care needs.

Who Qualifies for the Foster Care Grant?

To receive the foster care grant in South Africa, specific eligibility requirements must be met by both the child and the foster parent. This grant is provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to help foster parents support the basic needs of children placed in their care by a court.

Child Eligibility Requirements

A child must meet the following conditions to qualify for the foster care grant:

Foster Parent Eligibility Requirements

The person applying for the grant as a foster parent must:

No Means Test Required

Unlike other social grants, such as the Child Support Grant, the foster child grant does not require a means test. This means your income level will not affect your ability to qualify. The grant is awarded based on the legal foster care status of the child, not on financial need.

One Grant per Foster Child

Each foster child placed in your care is eligible for their own grant. If you foster more than one child, you can receive a separate foster care grant for each one, provided there is a valid court order for every child.

How Much is the Foster Care Grant in 2025?

In 2025, the foster care grant in South Africa provides R1 250 per month, per child. This amount was announced by SASSA and applies to all eligible foster children under valid court orders. Beneficiaries receive this payment on a monthly basis through various methods such as bank deposit, SASSA card collection points, or mobile pay points.

Recent Increases and Background

How You Receive the Payment

The foster care grant can be paid using these methods:

What This Means for Foster Parents

How to Apply for a Foster Care Grant

If you are caring for a child placed in your custody by a court, you may be eligible to apply for the foster care grants through SASSA. This grant helps foster parents meet the basic needs of children in their care. The application process is free and must be done in person at a SASSA office.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. 1. Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office
      Applications cannot be done online. You need to visit a local SASSA branch to begin the process.
   2. Take the Required Documents
      Bring the following original documents with you:
      • Your South African ID or valid passport (if you’re a refugee or permanent resident)
      • The child’s birth certificate
      • A valid court order that places the child in your foster care
      • Proof of residence
      • Your banking details or proof of an active bank account (if you want the grant paid via deposit)

1. Complete the Application Form
   At the SASSA office, a staff member will help you fill in the official Foster Child Grant Application Form. They will also take your fingerprints.
2. Get a Receipt
   Once the application is submitted, you will receive a stamped receipt. Keep this as proof of application.
3. Wait for Outcome
   It usually takes up to 3 months for SASSA to process your application. If approved, you will receive back-pay from the date of your application.

Important Notes

Checking Your Foster Care Grant Status

After applying for a foster care grant, it’s important to regularly check the status of your application or monthly payments. This helps you stay updated on whether your grant has been approved, processed, or if there are any issues you need to resolve.

SASSA offers several ways for you to check the status of your foster care grants—both online and offline.

How to Check Your Foster Care Grant Status

1. Via the SASSA Website
   • Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
   • Navigate to the grant status section and enter your ID number and the required details.
   • This option is best for checking updates after your application has been submitted.
2. Using the SASSA WhatsApp Line
   • Save the number 082 046 8553 to your phone.
   • Send a message that says “Status” or “Check grant”.
   • Follow the prompts to view your application or payment status.
3. Call the SASSA Toll-Free Number
   • Dial 0800 60 10 11
   • Speak to an agent to check the status of your foster care grant using your ID number.
4. Visit a SASSA Office
   • If you prefer face-to-face assistance or need to resolve a problem, you can visit your nearest SASSA branch.

What You Can Check

• Whether your banking details are up to date (if paid via direct deposit)

What to Do if There’s a Delay

If your foster care grant has been delayed or not paid, check:

In any of these cases, contact SASSA immediately to resolve the issue.

Foster Care Grant Payment Dates

Once your application is approved, the foster care grant is paid out every month by SASSA. Knowing when to expect your payment helps you plan your finances and avoid unnecessary stress or confusion.

When Are Foster Care Grant Payments Made?

SASSA releases payment dates every month. The foster care grant is usually paid early in the month, often within the first week. Payment dates are not the same every month, so it’s important to check the official SASSA schedule regularly.

Typically, grants are paid in the following order:

1. Older Person’s Grant
2. Disability Grant
3. Foster Care Grant and other child-related grants

Once the foster care grant payment date has passed, the funds will remain in your account until you withdraw them. There’s no need to rush or collect the grant on the exact date.

Where to Find the Latest Payment Dates

To check the monthly foster care grant payment dates, you can:

How Payments Are Made

You can receive your foster care grant through:

Make sure your banking details are correct and up to date to avoid payment delays.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive Payment

If your foster care grant is not paid on the expected date:

 

Grant Reviews and Renewals

Receiving a foster care grant is not a once-off process. SASSA requires that all foster care grants undergo regular reviews and renewals to ensure that the child is still legally in foster care and that the conditions for the grant remain valid.

Why Are Foster Care Grants Reviewed?

The foster care grant is based on a court order that places a child in your care. These court orders are usually valid for two years. Once the court order expires, the grant must be reviewed to confirm:

If this review is not completed in time, the grant may be suspended or canceled.

When to Renew the Grant

SASSA will notify you before your review is due. You should begin the renewal process at least three months before the court order expires. The review process involves:

What Happens If You Don’t Renew

If the foster care grants is not renewed on time:

Always keep track of your court order’s expiry date and respond promptly to any letters or messages from SASSA.

Keeping the Grant Active

To avoid issues:

 

Common Reasons for Grant Suspension or Rejection

Although the foster care grant provides essential support to foster families, there are circumstances where the grant can be suspended or rejected by SASSA. Understanding these common reasons can help you avoid delays or loss of payments.

Reasons for Suspension or Rejection

1. Expired or Missing Court Order
   The most frequent cause of suspension is when the court order placing the child in foster care has expired or is missing. SASSA requires a valid court order at all times to continue the grant.
2. Failure to Attend Grant Review or Renewal
   If you do not respond to SASSA’s request to review or renew the grant, your payments may be put on hold or stopped.
3. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation
   Submitting documents that are incomplete, unclear, or invalid can lead to rejection during the application or renewal process.
4. Changes in the Foster Child’s Status
   If the child turns 18 years old and is no longer attending school or is no longer under foster care, the grant will be stopped.
5. Non-Compliance with SASSA Requirements
   Failure to update personal information, such as changes in banking details or residential address, can result in payment delays or suspension.
6. Duplicate Applications or Multiple Grants
   Applying for more than one foster care grant for the same child or submitting multiple applications can cause rejection.

 

What to Do If Your Grant Is Suspended or Rejected

 

Tips for Foster Parents Receiving the Grant

Receiving the foster care grant provides important financial support to help care for foster children. To make the most of this assistance and avoid common pitfalls, foster parents should follow these practical tips.

Keep All Documents Up to Date

Maintain copies of important documents such as the child’s birth certificate, your court order, and any correspondence with SASSA. Ensure the court order is renewed before it expires to avoid interruptions in the grant payments.

Monitor Payment Dates and Status

Regularly check the status of your foster care grant and stay informed about payment dates. Use SASSA’s official channels like the website, WhatsApp service, or toll-free number to track your grant and quickly address any issues.

Update Personal and Banking Information Promptly

If your contact details or banking information change, update SASSA immediately. Incorrect or outdated information can cause payment delays or suspension.

Use the Grant Money Responsibly

The grant is intended to cover the needs of the foster child, including food, clothing, schooling, and healthcare. Manage the funds carefully to ensure the child’s wellbeing and development.

Attend All SASSA Reviews and Appointments

Participate in scheduled grant reviews or appointments at SASSA to avoid delays or suspension. Bring all necessary documents and respond promptly to any requests from SASSA.

Seek Help When Needed

If you face challenges with your foster care grant application or payments, visit your local SASSA office or contact a social worker for assistance. Don’t hesitate to ask for help to ensure you continue receiving support.

Conclusion

The foster care grant plays a vital role in supporting foster parents who care for vulnerable children in South Africa. By providing financial assistance, this grant helps ensure that foster children receive the basic needs they require to thrive. Understanding who qualifies, how to apply, and how to manage the grant can make the process smoother for foster parents.

If you are eligible, don’t hesitate to apply for the foster care grant and keep all your documents updated to avoid interruptions in payments. Staying informed about payment dates, reviews, and grant status will help you maintain access to this important support.

Remember, the foster care grant is designed to protect and improve the lives of foster children. For any questions or concerns, always reach out to SASSA or visit your nearest office for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions about the foster care grant to help you understand the process better.