R720 Per Child – Starting from 10 July until 25 July, a special financial relief opportunity has been rolled out for parents and guardians of school-going children in South Africa. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed a limited-time education support initiative where eligible families can claim R720 per child as a school-related expense boost. This one-time benefit is part of a broader government effort to relieve the mounting cost burden associated with school uniforms, stationery, and transport during the mid-year academic period. This initiative is aimed at Child Support Grant (CSG) beneficiaries and low-income households who are finding it increasingly difficult to keep up with rising back-to-school costs. According to SASSA, the temporary school support allowance is not replacing the existing monthly grant but is an added bonus specifically earmarked for education needs. With inflation and unemployment still affecting millions of South African families, this R720 per child assistance may serve as a vital stop-gap to avoid school dropouts or absenteeism. Thousands of families in rural and urban regions are eligible for this support, but many remain unaware of how to claim it or whether their children qualify. It is essential to act promptly since the application and claim window is only open between 10 July and 25 July. Missing this deadline may mean missing out entirely on the extra financial boost. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of eligibility, application process, distribution method, and key timelines so that you don’t miss this vital educational support for your child.
Who Can Claim the R720 Per Child?
This section outlines the eligibility criteria for claiming the education-related SASSA support.
- Must be a registered Child Support Grant (CSG) beneficiary.
- The child must be between the ages of 5 and 18 years.
- The child must be enrolled in a recognized public or government school.
- The primary caregiver must have a valid SASSA card or receive grants via Postbank.
- Only children listed under the SASSA beneficiary’s ID will be considered.
- Applicants must not have received this R720 benefit earlier in 2025.
- Only one R720 claim is allowed per child during the 10–25 July window.
How and Where to Apply for the R720 Per Child Support
Applicants must ensure they follow the proper process to avoid delays or rejection of their claim.
- Visit the nearest SASSA office or Post Office with your ID and child’s birth certificate.
- Ensure your child is listed on your SASSA profile.
- Fill out the “Education Expense Boost” application form available at SASSA counters.
- Submit proof of school enrollment or a signed school letter.
- Wait for SMS confirmation within 3–5 working days.
- Payments will be credited automatically to your existing SASSA card account.
Required Documents for Claim Approval
Ensure you carry these verified documents when applying.
- Valid green barcoded South African ID or smart ID card
- Child’s unabridged birth certificate
- Proof of school registration (report card, school letter, etc.)
- SASSA card or grant receipt number
- Signed affidavit in case of missing documents
Distribution Timeline and Payment Dates
Once your application is approved, payments will follow the official SASSA release schedule.
Payment Batch | Application Period | Payment Start Date | Payment End Date |
---|---|---|---|
Batch 1 | 10–13 July | 15 July | 17 July |
Batch 2 | 14–17 July | 18 July | 20 July |
Batch 3 | 18–21 July | 22 July | 23 July |
Batch 4 | 22–25 July | 24 July | 26 July |
What If Your Application Gets Rejected?
If your claim is denied, here are the next steps:
- You will receive an SMS or printed rejection letter with reasons.
- Revisit the office with correct documents if errors are cited.
- Reapply before 25 July – deadline is strict with no extension.
- Appeals can be filed at the regional SASSA office within 7 days.
How Will You Receive the R720 Per Child?
This educational support will not be paid in cash or voucher but directly through digital channels linked to your grant account.
- Payments will be deposited directly into the SASSA-linked bank or Postbank account.
- Beneficiaries using Post Office cards can withdraw from ATMs or retail partners.
- If the grant is collected via merchant partners (e.g., Shoprite, Boxer), the same route will be used.
- SMS confirmation will be sent when the payment reflects.
Regions With Highest Number of Beneficiaries
These provinces have the highest number of qualified children and have received early payouts.
Province | Estimated Beneficiaries | High-Priority Areas |
---|---|---|
Gauteng | 215,000+ | Soweto, Alexandra |
KwaZulu-Natal | 180,000+ | Umlazi, Inanda |
Eastern Cape | 160,000+ | Mdantsane, Motherwell |
Limpopo | 150,000+ | Thohoyandou, Giyani |
Western Cape | 130,000+ | Mitchells Plain, Delft |
Free State | 95,000+ | Botshabelo, Thaba Nchu |
Mpumalanga | 90,000+ | Siyabuswa, Bushbuckridge |
North West | 80,000+ | Mahikeng, Rustenburg |
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Avoid these errors to prevent delays or rejections.
- Submitting expired or incomplete documents
- Using someone else’s child information
- Claiming on behalf of a child not listed in your SASSA record
- Forgetting to attach school proof
- Applying after the 25 July deadline
How to Track Your R720 Application Status
Tracking is simple and can be done online or through SMS.
- Dial 1347737# using the number linked to your SASSA profile.
- Visit www.sassa.gov.za and click on “School Support Tracker.”
- Visit your local SASSA office with your ID for a manual check.
Additional School Relief Programs Also Available in July
Besides the R720 support, SASSA is also working with provincial education departments on further assistance.
- Free stationery kits for children in Grades 1–9 in selected schools
- Uniform vouchers worth up to R300 in collaboration with retailers
- Meal support program during July holidays for rural schools
- Transport subsidy grants for learners who travel over 5km to school
- Shoe donation drive by SASSA partners active in Gauteng and Limpopo
Future Education Relief Plans Under Discussion
SASSA has proposed the following for upcoming academic years.
- Annual education allowance of R1,200 to be paid in January
- Monthly transport allowance for rural learners (pilot under review)
- Collaboration with NGOs for afterschool support
- Textbook and digital device grants in underprivileged districts
How This Relief Will Help Struggling Parents
This mid-year boost will help thousands of parents meet education costs:
- Reduce chances of absenteeism due to lack of uniform or shoes
- Empower caregivers to plan better for school terms
- Give dignity and morale boost to students who often feel left behind
- Bridge the economic gap between low-income and average-income households
While the education system continues to face challenges, initiatives like this school expense boost are crucial lifelines for low-income families. The opportunity to claim R720 per child is not just financial support—it’s a step toward equality in education. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to act swiftly and ensure they meet the criteria and deadlines to secure this essential assistance.
FAQs – SASSA R720 School Expense Boost
1. Who can apply for the R720 school support?
Only registered SASSA Child Support Grant beneficiaries with school-going children aged 5–18.
2. Is the R720 amount per household or per child?
It is R720 per child, not per household.
3. What documents are required for the application?
ID, child’s birth certificate, and proof of school enrollment.
4. How will I receive the payment?
Funds will be paid directly into your existing SASSA card or grant-linked account.
5. Can I still apply after 25 July?
No, applications submitted after 25 July will be rejected.