In 2025, the Foster Child Grant, administered by SASSA, was increased to R1,250 per child per month, effective 2025 to offset rising living costs and bolster support for vulnerable children under foster care (increased from R1,180 in October 2024).
This grant provides essential financial aid to caregivers with court-ordered foster children, ensuring proper care and stability.
Who Qualifies for the Foster Child Grant?
Eligible caregivers must
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee residing in the country.
- Have a child under 18 years in their care through a legal court foster order.
- Ensure the child lives with the caregiver, not in a state-funded institution.
- Maintain proper foster placement documentation; no means test is required.
Foster placement must remain valid; caregivers must apply in person at a SASSA office, free of charge, bringing their barcoded ID, the child’s birth certificate, and the court order.
Read More- SASSA Child Support Grant 2025 – R530 Monthly Payment for Eligible Caregivers
2025 Payment Schedule & Disbursement
SASSA disburses the Foster Care Grant during the first week of each month, staggered alongside other social grants. For August 2025, the schedule is:
| Grant Type | Payment Date | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Older Persons Grant | 5 August 2025 | R2,315 |
| Disability / Care Dependency / War Veterans | 6 August 2025 | R2,315 |
| Child Grants (Support & Foster) | 7 August 2025 | R560 / R1,250 |
Disbursement options include bank deposits, Postbank Black Card, or collection at retail partners like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Boxer. Beneficiaries must ensure up-to-date bank or card details to avoid delays or payment suspension.
SASSA has confirmed no grants have been suspended yet, but recipients must respond to review notices when issued—typically every two years—for continuity.
How to Apply for the Foster Care Grant in 2025
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Bring valid ID, child birth certificate, a court order placing the child in your care, and any proof of updated legal dependency (e.g. revised court order) to the SASSA office.
Step 2: Complete Application
A SASSA official assists with the application form. You will receive a receipt as proof of submission.
Step 3: Processing & First Payment
Applications may take up to 90 days for approval. Once approved, payments are backdated to the date the court order was issued or last submitted.
Step 4: Appeals if Declined
If your application is declined, you may appeal within 90 days through SASSA or the Department of Social Development.
Reviews, Renewal & Continuity
The Foster Grant is reviewed when the court order expires, usually every two years; notifications are sent three months in advance. Updates must be submitted promptly to avoid suspension or lapsing of the benefit.
The grant ends if:
- The child turns 18
- The child enters a state institution
- The caregiver fails to collect the grant for three consecutive months or relocates outside South Africa
Caregivers need to update SASSA about any changes in placement or personal circumstances to maintain eligibility.
Why the Increase Matters in 2025
Rising living costs and increased responsibilities placed on foster caregivers prompted the SASSA budget adjustment in April 2025, reflecting the broader rise in grant amounts such as:
- Disability & Care Dependency Grants: now R2,315
- Child Support Grant: R560
- Grant-In-Aid: R560
- SRD Grant: R370
These enhancements ensure that caregivers can better meet the nutritional, educational, and healthcare needs of foster children, while also easing administrative complexities.
The SASSA Foster Child Grant increase to R1,250 per child in 2025 provides enhanced support for foster families. With a reliable monthly payment schedule, straightforward application rules, and clear review procedures, this grant equips caregivers to better support their foster children.
If eligible, ensure your legal documentation is updated and visit a SASSA office to apply or renew to secure uninterrupted support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I receive both Foster Care and Child Support Grants for the same child?
No. Fostered children qualify only for the Foster Care Grant; you cannot receive Child Support Grant concurrently for the same child.
2. Does my foster grant end automatically when the child turns 18?
Yes. The grant lapses in the month the child turns 18, unless schooling continues and SASSA approves extension up to age 21.
3. What should I do if my foster court order expires?
Submit the renewed court order or updated legal documents at least three months before expiration. Failure to do so may lead to payment suspension during review periods