SASSA Child Support Grant 2025 – Amount, Eligibility, Application

Child care costs a lot! Food, clothing, education, and healthcare are all expenses. That’s why South Africa has the SASSA Child Support Grant (CSG) to help parents. This government program helps families who struggle to meet these basic needs. If you’re a parent or guardian caring for a child, this grant can truly make a difference.

This guide from RandHub explains everything about the SASSA Child Support Grant. You’ll learn what it is, how much money you’ll get, who qualifies, how to apply, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re considering applying for the first time or want to understand the rules better, this informative blog has the guidance you need.

What Is SASSA?

SASSA stands for the South African Social Security Agency. It is a government organization that provides social grants to people in South Africa who need financial assistance. SASSA manages various types of grants for people in different financially vulnerable groups.

This agency manages grants for children, the elderly, the unemployed, people with disabilities, and others in difficult circumstances. SASSA has been in service since 2005 and helps millions of South Africans every month. This organization works to reduce poverty in our country and support our financially vulnerable brothers and sisters.

Think of SASSA as a safety net. When families are short on money, SASSA steps in with regular monthly payments. These payments help cover living expenses and necessities.

How Does the SASSA Child Support Grant Work?

The SASSA Child Support Grant is a monthly cash grant to help with child care costs. This government money is given to the child’s primary caregiver. The primary caregiver is the person who provides daily care to the child.

How the SASSA Child Support Grant works in simple steps:

You apply at your nearest SASSA office with the required documents. A SASSA officer helps you fill out the application form.

The SASSA officer checks your information. They review your income to see if you qualify. This is called the “Means Test“. The verification officer also checks whether the child meets the requirements.

Your application is approved or rejected. If approved, you receive a receipt with a reference number.

You start receiving payments. After approval, Child Support Grant payments begin within three months. The money is backdated to the date you applied.

You receive a monthly payment. The Child Care Grant is deposited into your bank account, onto your SASSA card, or you can collect it from your nearby paypoint.

Remember, the grant is not a loan; you don’t have to repay it. It’s the government’s financial support to help you raise your child well.

How Much Is the SASSA Child Support Grant Per Child?

From April 1, 2025, the SASSA Child Support Grant has increased to R560 per child per month. This is R30 more than the previous grant amount of R530.

In addition to the Basic Grant, there is a Top-Up Grant of R270 per month for qualifying children. This brings the total to R830 per month for children eligible for both Grants.

SASSA increases these amounts twice a year—in April and October. This helps keep the funds in line with rising expenses as the child grows older.

The Top-Up Grant is primarily for children who have lost their parents (orphans) and are cared for by relatives. Not everyone qualifies for the Top-Up, but if you do, it is additional support on top of the Basic Grant.

Remember, the amount changes every year. If you are applying, check SASSA’s website for the latest figures.

Who Qualifies for the R720 Child Grant?

The R720 amount refers to a previously combined amount. Today, the current amounts are R560 for the basic grant and R270 for the top-up grant (totalling R830). But the concept is the same—different amounts for different situations.

To qualify for any amount of child support grant, you must meet these requirements:

About the caregiver:

• You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
• You must reside in South Africa.
• You must be the primary caregiver of the child (the person who looks after them daily)
• You must not be paid to look after the child (unless it’s a professional foster care arrangement)
• Your income must be below the means test threshold.

About the child:

• The child must be under 18 years old.
• The child must reside in South Africa with you.
• The child must not be cared for in a state institution.
• The child must have been born after December 31, 1993.

Income limits (means test):

• Single caregivers: Annual income must not exceed R63,600 per year (about R5,300 per month).
• Married caregivers: Combined annual income must not exceed R127,200 per year (about R10,600 per month).

If you meet all these requirements, you qualify for the grant.

How Much Is a Child Support Grant for the First Time?

When you first apply for the Child Support Grant, you receive a basic amount of R560 per month for each child.

But if you’re caring for an orphan or a child who has lost one parent, you may also qualify for a top-up amount of R270 per month, bringing the total amount to R830.

The grant amount you receive depends on:

• Whether the child is orphaned or one of their parents unable to support them.
• Whether you meet all the eligibility requirements.
• Your income level.

When your application is approved, payments are backdated to the day you first applied. This means that if you applied on March 15th but received approval on May 20th, you’ll receive payments for all the intervening months.

What Is the Lowest Amount for Child Support?

When you first apply for the Child Support Grant, you receive a basic amount of R560 per month for each child.

But if you’re caring for an orphan or a child who has lost one parent, you may also qualify for a top-up amount of R270 per month, bringing the total amount to R830.

The grant amount you receive depends on:

• Whether the child is orphaned or one of their parents is unable to support them.
• Whether you meet all the eligibility requirements.
• Your income level.

When your application is approved, payments are backdated to the day you first applied. This means that if you applied on March 15th but received approval on May 20th, you’ll receive payments for all the intervening months.

What Is the Maximum Child Support You Can Pay?

This question often confuses people because it mixes two different things: SASSA grants and child maintenance.

SASSA Child Support Grant: You don’t pay anything to receive the grant. It’s free help from the government.

Child Maintenance (Court Orders): This is different. When parents separate or divorce, courts can order one parent to pay maintenance to the other. There is no fixed maximum amount for child maintenance. Courts decide based on:

• The child’s actual needs (food, school, medical care, etc.)
• Both parents’ income and ability to pay
• How expenses are shared between parents

For example, if a child needs R1,000 per month and one parent earns 60% of the household income, they might pay 60% of the cost (R600).

Child maintenance is a court order, not a government grant. It’s money paid from one parent to another, not from SASSA.

Who Qualifies for the SASSA Child Grant Top-Up?

The SASSA Child Grant top-up of R270 per month is for specific children. Not all children who receive the basic grant qualify for this extra money.

You can qualify for the top-up if:

• The child is an orphan (both parents are deceased).
• The child has lost one parent, and the other cannot or will not support them.
• The child is being cared for by a relative (grandparent, aunt, uncle, etc.) rather than a biological parent.
• You meet all the basic requirements for the child support grant.
• Your income is below the means test threshold.

The top-up was created to help relatives who are raising orphaned children. Raising someone else’s child is costly, and the top-up helps cover those extra expenses.

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies for the top-up, ask at your local SASSA office. They can explain your specific case.

Where Can I Receive SASSA Child Support Grant Payment?

SASSA gives you choices for how you receive your money. You can choose what works best for you.

• Direct bank transfer: Your grant funds are deposited directly into your personal bank account. This is what SASSA recommends. You can use any bank you want. The money arrives on the SASSA payment date each month (usually around the 5th).
• SASSA card: You can get a SASSA card (formerly the gold card, now transitioning to the black card). You use this card like a debit card at ATMs, shops, and pay points to access your money.
• Cash at pay points: SASSA operates approved pay points where you can collect some money on payment days. You present your card and ID, and they hand you your cash.
• Post Office: Some post offices act as pay points where you can collect your grant.

You can change your payment method at any time. Just fill in a form at a SASSA office, but the change takes effect the following month.

However, most people now choose direct bank transfer because it’s safer and more convenient. You don’t have to carry cash, and the money is available immediately.

What Documents I Need to Apply for a SASSA Child Support Grant?

To apply, you need to bring specific documents to your nearest SASSA office. Having everything ready makes the process faster.

Documents you must bring:

• Your South African Identity Document (ID) with a barcode.
• The child’s birth certificate with an ID number.
• Proof of your income (payslips, bank statements for three months, pension slips, or other proof).
• Your marriage certificate if you’re married.
• Court custody papers if you’re divorced and have custody.

If you don’t have some documents:

• If you don’t have an ID or the child’s birth certificate, you can complete an affidavit (sworn statement) in front of a Commissioner of Oaths or SASSA official.
• Bring proof that you’ve applied for these documents at the Department of Home Affairs.
• You can bring other proof like a clinic card, school report, or baptismal certificate.

Proof of income options:

• Recent payslips (if employed).
• Bank statements for the last three months.
• Pension payment slips.
• If unemployed, bring your UIF card or discharge certificate from your last job.
• If self-employed, bring business records or tax documents.

Additional documents:

• If you’re not the child’s parent, bring written permission from the biological parent allowing you to care for the child.
• Proof of any maintenance you receive for the child.
• If you’re divorced, bring the court order giving you custody.

Gather these documents before you apply. The more complete your application, the faster SASSA can process it.

How Much Is Child Support from a father in South Africa?

Child support from a father (or any parent) is different from the SASSA Child Support Grant. When parents separate, courts can order maintenance payments.

There is no fixed amount. Courts decide based on three main things:

1. The child’s actual needs:

• Food, clothing, and shelter.
• School fees and uniforms.
• Medical care and medicines.
• Transportation.
• Extracurricular activities. 

2. The father’s income and ability to pay:

• His salary or business income.
• His other expenses and responsibilities.
• His assets and debts. 

3. Proportional contribution:

• If the father earns 60% of the household income, he might pay 60% of the child’s needs.
• The mother or primary caregiver covers the rest.

 Example: If a child’s monthly needs total R2,000 and the father earns R15,000 while the mother earns R10,000, the father earns 60% of household income. He would pay R1,200 (60% of R2,000), and the mother would pay R800.

This is a court order, not a grant. The father pays directly to the mother or primary caregiver, not to SASSA.

If the parents agree on an amount, they can make it a consent order without going to court. If they disagree, a magistrate decides.

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for SASSA Child Grant?

Here’s a detailed list of documents for your SASSA child grant application:

Essential documents:

• Your barcode ID (13 digits).
• Child’s birth certificate with ID number.
• Proof of three months’ income (payslips, bank statements, or pension slips).

If you’re married:

• Your spouse’s barcode ID.
• Proof of your spouse’s income.
• Marriage certificate. 

If you’re divorced:

• Court order showing you have custody of the child.
• Proof of any maintenance you receive for the child. 

If you’re unemployed:

• UIF card (blue book) or discharge certificate from your last employer.
• Any grants or assistance you receive. 

If you don’t have an ID or birth certificate:

• Affidavit sworn in front of a Commissioner of Oaths or SASSA official.
• Proof that you’ve applied for these documents at Home Affairs.
• A temporary ID from Home Affairs (if available). 

Additional helpful documents:

• Child’s clinic card or road to health card.
• Baptismal certificate.
• School report.
• Letter from the child’s principal confirming the child is in school. 

If you’re not the child’s parent:

• Affidavit from the biological parent or police official.
• Report from a social worker.
• Letter from the child’s school principal.
• Letter from a councillor, traditional leader, or community figure.

Note: Make copies of everything. Bring the originals and copies to your appointment.

Can a Person Apply Online for a SASSA Child Grant?

Yes, you can apply online for a SASSA child grant. This is a convenient option if you don’t want to visit an office.

Here’s how to apply online for a SASSA Child Grant: 

Step 1: Register on the SASSA website

• Go to the SASSA website (srd SASSA gov za).
• Click “Register” to create a new account.
• Fill in your personal details.
• Submit the registration. 

Step 2: Get your OTP (One-Time Password)

• SASSA will send you an OTP to your registered phone number.
• Enter this OTP to complete registration. 

Step 3: Log in to your account

• Use your registered details to log in.
• Navigate to “Apply for a Grant”. 

Step 4: Select Child Support Grant

• From the list of available grants, select “Child Support Grant”.
• The application form will appear on your screen. 

Step 5: Fill out the form

• Complete all required fields with accurate information.
• Answer all questions honestly.
• Don’t leave any field blank. 

Step 6: Upload documents

• Scan or photograph your required documents.
• Save them as PDF files.
• Upload each document to the application form.
• Include an affidavit if you don’t have an ID or birth certificate. 

Step 7: Submit your application

• Review everything to check for errors.
• Click “Submit” to send your application.
• You’ll receive a confirmation receipt with a reference number.
• Save this number for your records. 

Important tips:

• Apply during business hours for faster processing.
• Keep your registration details safe.
• Use a strong password.
• Check your email and phone regularly for updates.
• You still need to upload the same documents as an office application.

If you face technical problems, visit your nearest SASSA office for help. SASSA staff can assist you with the online process.

How Long Does It Take to Apply for the SASSA Child Grant?

The application process has two parts: the time to apply and the time to get approved.

Time to apply:

• The application itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes at a SASSA office
• Online applications take similar time
• A SASSA officer helps you complete the form

Time to get approved:

• SASSA takes up to 3 months to process your application
• Once approved, you receive a letter confirming this
• Payments start within the 3-month window
• Your first payment is backdated to the day you applied 

Why does SASSA Child Grant take so long?

SASSA Child Grant takes long due to:

• SASSA checks your income details with the tax authority
• They verify your documents
• They confirm the child’s details
• They ensure you meet all requirements
• They have millions of applications to process 

How can I Speed up My application for SASSA Child Grant?

Tips to speed up your application process:

• Bring all documents complete and correct
• Don’t leave any forms blank
• Bring originals and copies
• Be honest about your income
• Respond quickly if SASSA asks for more information

Once approved, you get paid every month on the same date. SASSA pays around the 5th of each month, though this can vary.

Do I Need an Affidavit to Apply for a Child Grant?

An affidavit is only necessary if you don’t have certain documents. It’s a sworn statement that replaces missing paperwork.

When you need an affidavit:

• You don’t have your South African ID
• The child doesn’t have a birth certificate
• You’re not the child’s parent and need to prove custody
• You can’t provide certain documents SASSA asks for 

You don’t always need an affidavit. Only bring one if you’re missing required documents. Most people don’t need to provide one.

What Is the Income Limit for the SASSA Child Grant?

SASSA uses an income limit called the Means Test. Your income must be below this limit to qualify.

Current income limits (as of April 2024): 

If you’re single:

• Annual income limit: R63,600 per year
• Monthly limit: About R5,300 per month 

If you’re married:

• Combined annual income limit: R127,200 per year
• Combined monthly limit: About R10,600 per month

If you’re married, SASSA counts 50% of your spouse’s income and 50% of your income toward the total.

What counts as income:

• Salary or wages from employment
• Self-employment or business income
• Pension payments
• Grants from government
• Maintenance for the child
• Income from rental property
• Interest or dividends from investments
• Any other regular money you receive 

What doesn’t count:

• Child allowances from employers
• Once-off payments
• Money borrowed
• Gifts (usually)

Tips: If your income is just above the limit, don’t give up. Different SASSA offices may interpret the rules slightly differently. It’s worth applying and explaining your situation.

How to Change Your SASSA Phone Number Online?

SASSA uses your phone number to send you messages about your grant. It’s important to keep this contact number up to date.

Steps To change your phone number online:

Step 1: Go to the SASSA portal

• Visit the SASSA website.
• Log in with your user ID and password.
• If you don’t have an account, register first. 

Step 2: Find the phone number option

• Look for “Update Details” or “Change Phone Number”.
• The option should be in your account settings or dashboard. 

Step 3: Enter your new phone number

• Type in your new phone number.
• Double-check that it’s correct.
• Make sure it’s a number only you use. 

Step 4: Verify the number

• SASSA will send an OTP (One-Time Password) to your new number.
• Enter this OTP to confirm the change.
• Don’t share this OTP with anyone. 

Step 5: Save the changes

• Click “Submit” or “Save”.
• You’ll get a confirmation message.
• The change takes effect immediately. 

How To change your phone number in person?

Steps to change your phone number in person:

• Visit your nearest SASSA office
• Tell them your new phone number
• Bring your ID
• They’ll update it on the system 

Why should you update your phone number?

Reasons why you should update your phone number:

• SASSA sends payment notifications to your registered number.
• They contact you if there’s a problem with your application.
• They may send important updates about your grant.
• If you change providers, update your number immediately.

If you don’t have a phone, ask SASSA about alternatives. They may be able to help.

Who Doesn’t Qualify for a Child Support Grant?

Not everyone can get a SASSA child support grant. Some people don’t meet the requirements.

Conditions: When you don’t qualify for the Child Support Grant if:

Caregiver Disqualification Criteria

• You’re not a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
• You’re paid to look after the child (unless it’s a formal foster care arrangement).
• Your income is above the means test limit.
• You don’t reside in South Africa.
• Someone else is already receiving a grant for the same child. 

Child Disqualification Criteria:

• The child is 18 years old or older.
• The child is in the care of a state institution.
• The child is not living with you.
• The child has passed away.
• The child is receiving care from a state facility. 

About your situation:

• You’re representing an institution that cares for the child.
• The child is receiving care from the state welfare.
• You’ve missed three consecutive months of claiming (because the grant has lapsed).
• You haven’t reported changes in your circumstances. 

What happens if your financial circumstances improve?

If your income increases above the means test limit, you’re no longer eligible. SASSA will stop your grant. It’s important to report changes in your income or living situation.

Can I Get a Short-Term Loan When You Receive a SASSA Grant?

Yes, you can get a short term loan while you receive a SASSA grant, but only from registered credit providers that comply with South African credit laws and conduct affordability checks.

Note: SASSA does not provide loans itself, and it is illegal for lenders to deduct loan payments directly from your SASSA grant.

How to Get a Short-Term Loan When You Receive a SASSA Grant?

You might have expected your grant to cover the month. Then your daughter gets sick and needs medicine. Your landlord raises the rent. The fridge stops working. A small loan could help you get through. The question is whether you can actually qualify.

The answer is yes—but it is not straightforward.

What you actually need to do to get a short-term loan while on a SASSA grant:

Step 1: Set up a bank account

Have your grant paid into a bank account in your name, not just collected in cash. This is your first requirement.

Step 2: Gather documents

Get your South African ID, three months of bank statements showing your grant payments, a SASSA approval letter, and proof of where you live.

Step 3: Check if you can afford it

Add up your monthly expenses: food, rent, transport, and electricity. Subtract from your grant amount. If little money is left, a loan will be too tight.

Step 4: Apply with a registered lender

Start with your own bank, or apply with online lenders for regulated options such as Capitec, Shoprite, or Finbond. Avoid loan sharks who want your card or PIN.

Step 5: Be honest on the application

Tell the truth about your income, expenses, and other debts. The lender checks whether you can afford the repayments.

Step 6: Read before you sign

Check the interest rate, all fees, and the monthly repayment amount. Make sure the debit order fits your budget.

How to repay cash loan when you are on a SASSA grant?

Cash loan lenders repay themselves by Debit order from bank account.​

Registered lenders like Capitec, EasyPay, or Finbond use a debit order. Because your grant goes into your bank account. Days later, your lender automatically take the repayment amount. This is legal under the National Credit Act if you agreed to it in the loan contract.​

Where Can I Get a Loan with Child Support Grant?

You cannot get a loan from SASSA itself, but you can use your Child Support Grant as proof of income with certain registered lenders.​

Where can you apply:

• Capitec Bank – Offers personal loans to SASSA beneficiaries if your grant is paid into a Capitec account and you pass their credit and affordability checks.​
• EasyPay / EasyPay Everywhere – Provides small loans (around R410–R1,050) to SASSA grant clients linked to an EasyPay account and card.​
• Retail-linked credit (Shoprite/Checkers group) – Some retail-linked products and EasyPay partners market loans specifically to SASSA beneficiaries, including caregivers on Child Support Grants. 

Tip: Avoid anyone who asks for your SASSA card or PIN; they are a loan shark and illegal.

Final Thoughts

The SASSA Child Support Grant is real help for South African families. It recognizes that raising children costs money and that some families struggle to afford basic needs.

If you’re caring for a child and your income is limited, apply. You might qualify, the process is free, and the help is meaningful.

Remember:

• Gather all documents before applying
• Be honest in your application
• Update SASSA if anything changes
• Use the money for the child’s needs
• Ask SASSA if you have questions

Your children deserve support. That’s what this grant is for. If you qualify, don’t hesitate to apply.

For more information:

• Visit www.SASSA gov za
• Call 0800 601 011 (toll-free)
• Visit your nearest SASSA office
• Ask a social worker or community centre for help

Taking care of children is one of life’s most important jobs. This grant helps you do that. Use it well.

GEORGE DESIPRIS

George Desipris is an expert and passionate freelance content writer with 10+ years of experience in creating informative content for various websites, blogs, and other platforms. George is specialized in niche related to finance, especially in investment and trade.

Their writing hook the readers and never let them to search more about the topic. His articles also featured on various news websites like New York Times and Bloomberg. In addition, George Desipris enjoy chess and badminton like sports. He is always try to broaden their knowledge and vision by using his creativity skills.

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