The SASSA Foster Care Grant remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s social assistance programs, offering financial support to caregivers responsible for the well-being of vulnerable children.
In 2025, the grant continues to be a lifeline, providing R1,180 per month per child to foster parents, helping them cover essential expenses such as food, healthcare, clothing, and education.
Here’s everything you need to know about the eligibility, application process, and payment details for the 2025 Foster Care Grant.
What Is the Foster Care Grant?
The Foster Care Grant is a monthly financial allowance provided to caregivers who are legally assigned custody of children through a Children’s Court order.
This initiative aims to ensure that children who have experienced neglect, abuse, or abandonment can grow up in a secure and supportive environment.
Who Qualifies for the Foster Care Grant?
To qualify for the grant, caregivers must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Residency Requirements
- Both the caregiver and the foster child must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or recognized refugees.
- They must reside in South Africa throughout the foster care period.
- Legal Custody
- The caregiver must have a valid court order placing the child in their care due to circumstances like neglect, abuse, or abandonment.
- Age Limits
- The foster child must be under 18 years old.
- If the child is still in school or vocational training, the grant may be extended until they turn 21, with proof of enrollment.
- Non-Biological Relation
- The grant is specifically for foster care arrangements and cannot be claimed for biological children.
- Income Criteria
- Unlike other grants, the Foster Care Grant has no means test, so the caregiver’s income level does not affect eligibility.
How to Apply for the Foster Care Grant
Follow these steps to apply for the Foster Care Grant in 2025:
1. Prepare Necessary Documents
Ensure you have the following:
- Caregiver’s South African ID or refugee status document.
- Foster child’s birth certificate.
- Court order assigning custody of the child.
- Proof of residence, such as a utility bill.
- If any documents are missing, you can submit an affidavit with assistance from SASSA officials.
2. Visit a SASSA Office
- Go to the nearest SASSA office to start the application process.
- SASSA representatives will assist with filling out the necessary forms.
3. Submit the Application
- Submit your completed application along with all supporting documents. You’ll receive a dated receipt as proof of submission.
4. Application Processing
- Applications typically take up to three months to process. Approved grants are retroactive to the date the foster care began.
5. Appeals Process
- If your application is denied, you can appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days.
Payment Methods for the Foster Care Grant
Once approved, caregivers can receive their grant through various payment options:
| Payment Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Bank Account | Direct deposit into your bank account. |
| Cash Send | Collect payments via participating retailers. |
| Post Office | Pick up payments at Post Office branches. |
Renewal and Reviews
- Periodic Reviews
- SASSA conducts reviews every two years to ensure the child remains in the caregiver’s legal custody.
- Extension for Education
- For children over 18 still in school or training, the grant can be extended to age 21 with proof of enrollment.
- Expired Court Orders
- Caregivers are notified three months before court orders expire to renew them.
Common Reasons for Suspension
The grant may be suspended under these conditions:
| Reason | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit Reached | Ends when the child turns 18 unless extended. |
| Change in Custody | If the child no longer resides with the caregiver. |
| Fraudulent Activity | Immediate suspension if fraud is detected. |
Key Contacts for Assistance
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| SASSA Toll-Free Line | 0800-601011 |
| SASSA Website | Visit for updates and guidelines. |
| Local SASSA Offices | In-person support for applications. |
The Foster Care Grant in 2025 plays a vital role in supporting foster families and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable children.
By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, caregivers can secure this crucial financial assistance.
With SASSA’s commitment to streamlining the application and payment procedures, the program continues to be a cornerstone of South Africa’s social welfare system.
What happens if my court order expires?
You’ll receive a notification three months in advance. Renew the court order to continue receiving payments.
Can I apply for multiple children in my care?
Yes, the grant is available for each child under your legal foster care.
Is the Foster Care Grant taxable?
No, the grant is non-taxable and intended solely for the child’s welfare.
