SASSA Foster Child Grant – In a major relief to thousands of South African guardians, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially increased the Foster Child Grant amount to R1,250 per child. The revised grant is set to be disbursed starting August 2025 to all approved foster guardians across the country. This announcement brings emotional and financial relief to countless families who rely on this support to care for children placed under their guardianship. The Foster Child Grant is one of the most vital social support mechanisms in South Africa, specifically designed for children who are legally placed under the care of foster parents due to the loss of biological parents or other serious family circumstances. With rising living costs, school expenses, food prices, and healthcare burdens, this increase has come at a crucial time. SASSA confirmed that this new payment structure is not a one-time top-up but a permanent monthly increase, applicable to all beneficiaries who are currently verified and approved. It is part of the government’s larger strategy to improve child welfare and strengthen family-based care. Let’s break down the complete details, eligibility, verification, payment calendar, calculation tables, and important contact info that every foster parent must know before the August payout.
New SASSA Foster Child Grant Amount – What’s Changing?
SASSA has officially raised the monthly Foster Child Grant to R1,250, starting from August 2025. This change applies to all verified foster guardians with valid court orders.
- Previous Grant Amount: R1,120
- New Grant Amount: R1,250
- Increase Value: R130 per child
- Effective From: August 1, 2025
- Beneficiaries Covered: All legally approved foster guardians
- Payout Frequency: Monthly
Comparison Table: Old vs New SASSA Foster Child Grant
| Month | Previous Amount | Increased Amount | Monthly Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2025 | R1,120 | – | – |
| June 2025 | R1,120 | – | – |
| July 2025 | R1,120 | – | – |
| August 2025 | R1,120 | R1,250 | R130 |
| September 2025 | R1,120 | R1,250 | R130 |
| October 2025 | R1,120 | R1,250 | R130 |
| November 2025 | R1,120 | R1,250 | R130 |
| December 2025 | R1,120 | R1,250 | R130 |
Who Is Eligible for the SASSA Foster Child Grant?
If you are taking care of a foster child under a legal court order, and the child meets certain conditions, you can receive the R1,250 monthly payment starting this August.
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- The child must be under 18 years of age
- The child must be placed under foster care through a valid court order
- The foster parent must be recognized by the Department of Social Development
- The child must not be in the care of a state institution
- The child must reside in South Africa
Key Documents Required for Eligibility
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Foster Care Court Order | Mandatory for all new and existing applications |
| ID Document of Foster Parent | Certified copy required |
| Child’s Birth Certificate | Unabridged version, with ID number |
| Proof of Residence | Municipal bill or official letter |
| Bank Account Details | For direct deposit of monthly grant |
| SASSA Foster Grant Application Form | Available at nearest SASSA office or online portal |
How to Check If You’re Approved for the August Payment?
Guardians are advised to verify their application and payment status before August to ensure smooth disbursal.
Step-by-Step Process to Check Approval Status
- Visit the official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za
- Click on “Check Foster Grant Status”
- Enter your ID number and mobile number
- Verify via OTP (One-Time Pin)
- Your approval and next payment date will be displayed on screen
Alternative Methods to Check Grant Status
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| SASSA WhatsApp | Send “Status” to 082 046 8553 |
| Call Centre | Dial 0800 60 10 11 (Weekdays: 8 AM – 4 PM) |
| In-Person Visit | Nearest SASSA local office with original ID & court documents |
| Email Support | Send ID + details to GrantsEnquiries@sassa.gov.za |
August 2025 Payment Schedule for SASSA Foster Child Grant
The first increased payment of R1,250 will be made according to the revised SASSA grant payment schedule. Below is the expected date sheet:
| Province | Payment Start Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 5 August 2025 | Direct bank deposit |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 6 August 2025 | Post Office + bank payments |
| Western Cape | 5 August 2025 | All platforms |
| Eastern Cape | 7 August 2025 | Rural and mobile points |
| Limpopo | 8 August 2025 | Expect slight delays |
| Mpumalanga | 6 August 2025 | ATM card collections enabled |
| North West | 6 August 2025 | Must carry court order & ID |
| Free State | 7 August 2025 | SMS notification will be sent |
| Northern Cape | 7 August 2025 | Visit SASSA mobile units |
Important Notes for Guardians to Ensure Smooth Payment
Make sure all details are up-to-date in the SASSA system to avoid rejection or delay of payment.
- Court orders must be valid and not expired
- Bank details must match the guardian’s ID
- Reconfirm contact number registered with SASSA
- Avoid duplication – only one grant per child
- Submit updated documents if requested before 3 August
What to Do If Your Grant Is Delayed?
If you haven’t received payment by 10 August:
- Call SASSA Helpline or visit your nearest office
- Carry certified documents and proof of court order
- Use WhatsApp or email to log a follow-up complaint
- Ask for ‘Manual Payment Request’ if technical error occurred
Contact Details for Assistance
If you have any questions about the R1,250 Foster Grant payment or need help updating your records, contact SASSA or relevant departments immediately.
| Department | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| SASSA Toll-Free Helpline | 0800 60 10 11 |
| SASSA WhatsApp Support | 082 046 8553 |
| Foster Grant Email Support | GrantsEnquiries@sassa.gov.za |
| Department of Social Dev | 012 312 7500 |
| Online Website | www.sassa.gov.za |
| SASSA Facebook | @OfficialSASSA |
| Nearest Office Locator | Use “Find My SASSA Office” feature on the official site |
The SASSA Foster Child Grant increase is a vital step toward supporting guardians across South Africa. Make sure your details are updated and documents are ready to receive the new R1,250 payment starting this August.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the R1,250 grant start getting paid?
A1. From 5 August 2025 onwards, as per province-wise schedule.
Q2. Do I need to reapply to get the increased amount?
A2. No, if your foster grant is already approved and active, the increase will be automatic.
Q3. What if my foster court order has expired?
A3. You must renew the court order and submit it to SASSA before the next payment.
Q4. Can I receive the grant if I am unemployed?
A4. Yes, your employment status does not affect eligibility for foster grants.
Q5. Will the R1,250 increase be permanent?
A5. Yes, SASSA has confirmed this is a permanent adjustment, not a temporary top-up.