Good news for foster parents in South Africa: from April 1, 2025, the Foster Kid Grant will be doubled to R1,250 per kid per month. A significant boost to assist you in funding necessities such as school supplies, meals, clothes, and medical care. In September 2025, the application process remains straightforward and helpful. This page explains who qualifies. What paperwork you’ll need, how to apply, important deadlines, and why this funding matters. In this article, we will discuss the grant, who is eligible to apply, and the application process.
Quick Fact about the Grant
| What You Should Know | Details |
| Grant Name | Foster Child Grant (SASSA) |
| Amount per Child | R1250 per month, effective from April 2025 |
| Applications Open | August 2025 |
| Payment Date | September 5, 2025 |
| How to Apply | In person at your local SASSA office |
| Processing Time | Up to 90 days (about 3 months) |
| Payment Methods | Bank deposit, SASSA card, or cash pickup |
Who Can Apply?
Here is the eligibility criteria for who can apply.
- You and the foster kid must live in South Africa. You might be a citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee.
- A court must formally put the kid in your care (for grounds such as orphanhood, danger, abandonment, or neglect).
- The youngster should be under 18 years old. If the child is still in school, the grant may be extended until the age of twenty-one.
- There is no means test necessary; the focus is on legal duty rather than income.
How to Apply?
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to apply.
- Visit your nearest SASSA office.
- Collect and complete the application form in front of an SASSA officer; only you (the caregiver) or an SASSA official can do so.
- Please provide the papers indicated above along with the form.
- You will receive a receipt with the date; retain it! It’s the proof you submitted.
- The application typically takes up to 90 days to process. If authorized, monies are retroactively applied to the day the kid was put in your care by court order.
How You’ll Be Paid
Once your grant is approved, it will get you the following options.
- Direct deposit to your bank or Postbank account (bank fees may apply).
- A SASSA card allows you to withdraw cash and make purchases.
- Cash can be picked up at recognized pay locations.
- If you are unable to collect the money personally, you can have someone else do it for you.
What If Your Application Is Denied?
- SASSA shall notify you in writing, with explanations.
- You can ask SASSA to rethink.
- If you are still refused after review, you have 90 days to file a formal appeal with the Department of Social Development.
Hi, I’m Owen. I’m passionate about sharing the latest government aid news, benefits, and policy updates so you can stay informed and make the most of available resources. My goal is to break down complex information into clear, easy-to-understand updates that help you navigate programs and opportunities that matter to you.