Foster Child Grant – For thousands of South African families taking care of foster children, the R1,250 Foster Child Grant offers crucial financial support to cover essential living costs. As of August 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially opened new applications for this monthly grant — and they’re urging caregivers to use the newly updated online application system to speed up processing and reduce long delays. In the past, long queues, paper form backlogs, and outdated documents have caused major frustrations and delayed payments. But now, thanks to a streamlined online application system and dedicated SASSA support channels, foster parents and guardians can get approval faster than ever — sometimes within just two weeks. With the cost of living rising, especially in terms of food, education, transport, and medical care, this grant comes as a vital relief in a country where child poverty remains a serious issue. If you’re caring for a foster child and haven’t yet applied for the R1,250 monthly grant, now is the time. This article will walk you through everything you need to know — from who qualifies and what documents you need, to how to fill in the online application form and when payments will be made. Plus, we’ve included SASSA contact details, useful tables, eligibility breakdowns, and frequently asked questions to make your journey easier.
Who Is Eligible for the SASSA Foster Child Grant?
The Foster Child Grant is meant to help foster parents legally responsible for children under their care, as mandated by a court order.
- You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- The child must be officially placed in your care by the court.
- The child must be under the age of 18.
- The child must live in South Africa.
- Both the applicant and the child must have valid ID numbers.
- You must not be receiving another government child support grant for the same child.
- A social worker must complete a review and recommendation.
- The foster arrangement must be legally recognized under the Children’s Act.
Key Documents Required for the Application of Foster Child Grant
To avoid rejection or delays, make sure these documents are prepared before starting your application:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
- Valid foster care court order
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months)
- Bank statement (3 months)
- Social worker report or recommendation
- Refugee or permanent residency papers if applicable
- Medical or school reports (if required for special cases)
How to Apply Online for the August 2025 Foster Child Grant
SASSA now recommends all foster care grant applicants use their online system for faster results and fewer paperwork errors.
- Visit the SASSA online services portal: https://services.sassa.gov.za
- Register an account or log in using your ID and contact details
- Select “Apply for a Grant” → Choose “Foster Child Grant”
- Upload all required documents (PDF or JPG format)
- Complete the step-by-step digital form
- Submit the application and note your reference number
- Await confirmation and SMS notification from SASSA
- You may be called for an interview or asked for additional documents
- Once approved, receive payment to your bank account or cash point
Estimated Processing & Approval Timeline
Below is a general timeline to understand how long each stage typically takes.
| Process Stage | Average Duration |
|---|---|
| Online Application Submission | 1 Day |
| Initial Document Review | 3–5 Working Days |
| Social Worker Evaluation | 5–10 Working Days |
| SASSA Final Review & Decision | 7–10 Working Days |
| Payment Setup & First Payout | 3–7 Working Days |
| Total Time (Best Case) | 2–4 Weeks |
| Total Time (With Delays) | Up to 8 Weeks |
Payment Schedule and Amount for August 2025
The SASSA Foster Child Grant pays out R1,250 per child per month. The payments are sent via bank deposit, Postbank, or cash collection points depending on your preference.
- August 2025 payments begin from Monday, August 5
- Funds are released in batches based on ID numbers
- Use your SASSA card or banking app to check balance
- Track payments via WhatsApp or the SASSA mobile site
August 2025 Payment Schedule (Based on ID Ending Digits)
| ID Ending In | Expected Payout Date |
|---|---|
| 0 or 1 | August 5, 2025 |
| 2 or 3 | August 6, 2025 |
| 4 or 5 | August 7, 2025 |
| 6 or 7 | August 8, 2025 |
| 8 or 9 | August 9, 2025 |
What Happens If Your Application Is Delayed or Rejected?
Some applications may face rejection due to incomplete documents or eligibility issues. But don’t panic — you can resolve most problems quickly by following these steps.
Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections
- Missing or expired foster care order
- Incorrect child ID or birth certificate
- Failure to upload complete documents
- Errors in online form (typos in name, dates, etc.)
- No social worker report included
- Duplicate application for same child
How to Fix a Delayed or Denied Application
- Revisit your application status using your reference number
- Log into the SASSA portal and check for messages
- Contact your local SASSA office for support
- Request a re-evaluation through your assigned social worker
- Submit a formal appeal if unjustly denied within 90 days
Departmental Contact Details and Support Channels
If you need direct help from SASSA, here are the latest contact options available to all applicants nationwide.
| Department/Office | Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|---|
| SASSA Head Office | Phone | 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free) |
| SASSA Email Support | grant.enquiries@sassa.gov.za | |
| WhatsApp Help Line | 082 046 8553 | |
| Online Portal Support | Website | https://services.sassa.gov.za |
| Facebook Page | Social Media | SASSA News Updates |
| Provincial Office – Gauteng | Phone/Visit | 011 241 8320 |
| Regional Office – KZN | Phone/Visit | 033 846 3400 |
This August, take advantage of the updated online system and secure the support your foster child needs. Early applications, correct documentation, and regular follow-ups are key to ensuring your grant is approved swiftly. If in doubt, reach out to SASSA directly — help is available.
FAQs – Foster Child Grant August 2025
Q1: Can I apply for more than one foster child under the same account?
Yes, you can apply for multiple foster children under one caregiver account, as long as each child has a valid court order.
Q2: Is the Foster Child Grant taxable?
No, the Foster Child Grant is not considered taxable income and does not need to be declared to SARS.
Q3: What if I lose my SASSA card or banking details change?
Visit your nearest SASSA office with ID to update banking details or request a new card.
Q4: Can refugees or asylum seekers apply?
Yes, if you have legal refugee status and a valid court-ordered foster arrangement, you may apply.
Q5: How often must I renew or review the grant?
Every 2 years or as directed by SASSA or your social worker, depending on the foster care arrangement.