The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that the Foster Child Grant will be raised to R1,250 per child in April 2025. This critical cash grant is aimed at helping foster parents and court-appointed legal guardians who provide care for needy children. Below is all you need to know regarding the grant, eligibility, application process, and payment dates.
Key Highlights of the R1,250 Foster Child Grant
- Higher Payment: The Foster Child Grant will be R1,250 per child per month from April 2025.
- Eligibility Not Changing: Foster parents should have a valid court order confirming legal guardianship.
- Payment Frequency: Payments will be according to the standard SASSA grant payment schedule.
- Online and Physical Applications: Applications can be made at SASSA offices or on the official SASSA website.
SASSA Confirms R1,250 Foster Child Grant for April 2025
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that the Foster Child Grant will rise to R1,250 per child in April 2025. This vital financial assistance is meant to benefit foster parents and legal guardians who take care of children in need. Here’s all you need to know about the grant, eligibility, application process, and payment schedule.
Key Highlights of the R1,250 Foster Child Grant
- Higher Payment: The Foster Child Grant of R1,250 per child monthly will kick in from April 2025.
- Remains Eligible: Foster parents need to have a court order declaring legal guardianship.
- Payment Cycle: The payment system will revert back to the standard SASSA grant payment cycle.
- Applications Online and at SASSA Offices: Applications may be done at SASSA offices or online via the SASSA website.
Who is Eligible for the Foster Child Grant?
To be eligible for the SASSA Foster Child Grant, the following qualifications must be satisfied:
- Legal Guardianship: The foster parent should have an order from court verifying his/her status as a legal foster parent.
- South African Citizenship: Either the child or the foster parent should either be a South African citizen, a permanent resident, or a refugee.
- Child’s Age: The child should be 18 years or below.
- Residency Requirement: The foster parent and child should be residing in South Africa.
- Valid Foster Care Status: The child should be under foster care by a court order.
How to Apply for the R1,250 Foster Child Grant
Eligible foster parents can apply for the SASSA Foster Child Grant through the following procedure:
1. Gather Required Documents
Prior to applying, you should have the following documents at hand:
- Certified copy of your South African ID (or refugee permit for qualifying applicants)
- Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate.
- Court order confirming foster care placement
- Proof of residence
- Banking details (if choosing direct deposit payments)
2. Submit the Application
Foster parents may apply by the following means:
- Visit a SASSA Office: Visit your local SASSA office and fill out the application with the help of an official.
- Apply Online: Fill out your application through the SASSA official website.
3. Verification and Approval
- SASSA verifies the application and all documentation.
- A SASSA representative can pay a home visit to ensure eligibility.
- Processing should take no longer than three months.
4. Get Payments
Once your application has been approved, you will receive R1,250 per month, either through:
- Direct bank deposit
- SASSA card withdrawal
- Cash collection outlets
Payment Schedule for April 2025
The Foster Child Grant shall be paid based on the standard SASSA payment cycle. Following is the envisaged timetable:
Grant Type | Payment Date (March 2025) |
---|---|
Foster Child Grant | 5 April 2025 |
Old Age Pension | 4 April 2025 |
Disability Grant | 6 April 2025 |
Child Support Grant | 7 April 2025 |
Conclusion
The R1,250 Foster Child Grant for April 2025 is an essential support measure for foster parents taking care of at-risk children in South Africa. By going through the right application process, qualifying guardians can ensure they get this vital assistance. For more information, go to your nearest SASSA office or look at the official SASSA website.
FAQ’s
Q. Can I apply if I am not a South African citizen?
A. Refugees and permanent residents are eligible to apply, subject to the child being lawfully in their care as per a South African court.
Q. How long does it take to process the application?
A. Approximately three months, subject to verification and checking of documents.
Q. Can I apply for the Foster Child Grant if I already receive other SASSA grants?
A. Yes, you are eligible to receive the Foster Child Grant and other SASSA grants, for example, the Child Support Grant.
Q. What happens when the child is 18 years old?
A. The grant will terminate when the child turns 18 years old, with the exception that if the foster care court order is extended beyond that time, then it will terminate when the order ends.
Q. How can I track my payment status?
A. You can check your payment status by:
Logging on the SASSA website
Telephoning the SASSA helpline (0800 60 10 11)
Visit at the nearest SASSA office for verification