Foster Grant – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially confirmed that the Foster Care Grant payment of R1,250 will be released on Friday, August 23, 2025. Beneficiaries can expect to receive their funds directly into their bank accounts, and as part of an enhanced notification system, SMS alerts will be sent the night before to eligible recipients. This initiative aims to keep beneficiaries informed, avoid unnecessary bank visits, and ensure they can plan their withdrawals or purchases accordingly. The Foster Care Grant is a critical financial support mechanism for guardians who take care of children that are not their biological offspring, often due to parental death, abandonment, or inability to provide proper care. SASSA has set this date to ensure that households dependent on the grant can make timely preparations for school needs, groceries, and other essentials. Beneficiaries are encouraged to verify that their bank account details are correct and active to avoid delays. Those who have not yet linked a bank account or who use SASSA payment points should be aware that queues may be longer immediately after payment day. By sending SMS alerts the night before, SASSA hopes to reduce unnecessary congestion at pay points and allow recipients to plan their visit. This update comes amidst a broader effort by SASSA to improve transparency, speed, and communication in grant disbursements. In addition to the Foster Grant, other grants such as the Child Support Grant and Old Age Pension will also be paid out in their respective cycles for August 2025. Beneficiaries should keep a close watch on SASSA’s official website and social media channels for any changes or emergency announcements. Those who do not receive an SMS but are approved for the grant should still check their bank accounts or SASSA cards from the morning of August 23, 2025. In some cases, mobile network delays or incorrect numbers may cause missed notifications, but payments will still proceed as scheduled. Beneficiaries are urged to update their contact information via the SASSA branch, online portal, or helpline to ensure smooth communication for future payments.
Foster Grant August 2025 Payment Schedule
SASSA has confirmed the date and will also provide SMS alerts to keep beneficiaries informed. Here’s a breakdown of the key details for August:
- Payment Date: 23 August 2025
- Grant Type: Foster Care Grant
- Amount: R1,250 per eligible child
- SMS Notification: Sent on the night of 22 August 2025
- Payment Method: Bank account, SASSA card, or cash payment point
- Beneficiary Requirement: Active and verified bank details
- Responsible Agency: South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)
| Payment Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Date | 23 August 2025 |
| Payment Amount | R1,250 per child |
| SMS Notification Time | Evening of 22 August 2025 |
| Responsible Department | South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) |
| Disbursement Method | Bank, SASSA Card, or Cash Pay Points |
| Beneficiary Eligibility | Court-appointed foster parents with valid documentation |
| Update Required Info By | 15 August 2025 |
| Contact for Queries | SASSA Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 |
How to Confirm Your Foster Grant Payment
Beneficiaries should follow these steps to ensure their payment is on track:
- Log in to the SASSA online services portal.
- Check the “Payment Status” section.
- Confirm that your bank details are active and correct.
- If using a SASSA card, ensure it has not expired.
- Look out for the official SMS notification the night before.
- Contact SASSA immediately if your payment is not visible by the afternoon of 23 August.
Common Reasons for Delayed Payments
While most payments are processed on time, delays may occur due to:
- Outdated or incorrect bank account details.
- Suspended grant due to missing documentation.
- Mobile number not updated for SMS notifications.
- High volume processing delays in banking systems.
How SMS Alerts Will Work for Foster Grant
The SMS alert system is designed to give beneficiaries a heads-up about their payment. SASSA will send a message containing:
- Confirmation of the payment date.
- Amount to be paid.
- Instructions for accessing the funds.
- Contact details for assistance.
| Alert Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sender | SASSA Official Number |
| Delivery Time | Between 6 PM and 9 PM on 22 August 2025 |
| Message Content | Payment confirmation + instructions |
| Cost to Beneficiary | Free |
| Requirement | Updated mobile number in SASSA records |
| Opt-Out Option | Not available for grant-related alerts |
| Follow-up Contact | SASSA Helpline |
How to Update Your Contact Details
To ensure you receive the SMS alerts, you can update your details by:
- Visiting your nearest SASSA office.
- Calling 0800 60 10 11 and following the prompts.
- Using the SASSA online portal to update your profile.
Bank Payment Process for Foster Grant
For those receiving the grant via bank transfer:
- Payments are deposited directly into the beneficiary’s account.
- Most banks clear the payment within 24 hours.
- You can withdraw funds from ATMs, bank branches, or retail partners.
- Bank transfers are safer and reduce the risk of theft compared to cash pay points.
SASSA Cash Pay Points and Queues
Some beneficiaries, especially in rural areas, still collect cash from designated pay points:
- Arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Bring your ID and SASSA card.
- Follow safety protocols and avoid carrying large amounts of cash alone.
Departmental Contact Details
- SASSA National Helpline: 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free)
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Head Office Address: SASSA House, 501 Prodinsa Building, Cnr Steve Biko and Pretorius Streets, Pretoria
FAQs of Foster Grant
1. When will the Foster Grant be paid in August 2025?
It will be paid on 23 August 2025.
2. Will I get an SMS before the payment?
Yes, an SMS alert will be sent the evening before the payment.
3. What happens if I don’t receive the SMS?
You should still check your bank account or SASSA card on payment day.
4. How can I update my bank or contact details?
Through the SASSA online portal, helpline, or by visiting a branch.
5. Can I collect the payment in cash?
Yes, at designated SASSA pay points, but bank payments are recommended for safety.