Foster Child Grant in South Africa: Requirements, Amounts and How to Apply

Foster families play a vital role in South Africa's social care system. The SASSA Foster Child Grant recognizes this by providing monthly payments to caregivers. Unlike the Child Support Grant, which is paid for biological or adopted children, the Foster Child Grant applies to children placed under your care through a legal court order. This guide explains who qualifies, what amount you will receive and the complete application process.

What is the Foster Child Grant?

The Foster Child Grant is a monthly cash transfer from SASSA to people who are legally responsible for foster children. The grant recognizes the financial responsibility of fostering and helps cover the costs of care. The payment is made directly into the caregiver's bank account.

Who can receive the Foster Child Grant?

To receive the Foster Child Grant, you must meet all of these requirements:

• You are a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• You have a valid court order placing a child in your care as a foster child.
• You are the person responsible for the day-to-day care and maintenance of the child.
• The foster child lives with you in South Africa.
• Your household income does not exceed the SASSA means test limit (which varies by household size).
• You have a valid South African ID or passport.
• You have an active bank account in your name to receive payments.

How much is the Foster Child Grant?

SASSA adjusts grant amounts annually, usually in April. As of 2026, the Foster Child Grant is approximately R520–R550 per child per month, but confirm the current amount on the official SASSA website. You receive one payment per foster child if you are caring for more than one.

Required documents to apply

Gather these documents before you apply:

• Your valid South African ID or passport.
• The foster child's birth certificate.
• The court order granting you foster care of the child (from the Department of Social Development or court).
• Proof of your relationship to the child (e.g. letter from social worker, school attendance records showing your address).
• Proof of your current residential address (utility bill, rental agreement or bank statement not older than 3 months).
• Your valid bank account details (account number, branch code and statement showing your name).
• The child's ID number (if they have been issued one) or the child's birth certificate number.

Income limits for the Foster Child Grant

SASSA uses a means test to determine if your household income is low enough to qualify. The income limit depends on the number of people in your household. For example, a household of 1 person may have a different limit than a household of 4. Contact SASSA or visit the website to see the exact income thresholds.

Household income includes:

• Wages or salaries from employment.
• Self-employment income or business profits.
• Income from rental properties or investments.
• Pensions or other social grants you receive.
• Support payments from family members.

How to apply for the Foster Child Grant

1. 1

   Gather all required documents

   Collect your ID, the child's birth certificate, court order and proof of care as listed above.
2. 2

   Visit a SASSA office

   Go to your nearest SASSA office with all documents. You can find your local office on the SASSA website.
3. 3

   Complete the application form

   SASSA staff will help you fill out the Foster Child Grant application. Be prepared to provide household income details and the foster child's information.
4. 4

   Submit your documents

   Hand in all required documents with your completed form. Keep a copy for yourself.
5. 5

   Receive your reference number

   SASSA will give you a reference number. Write it down—you will use this to check your application status.
6. 6

   Wait for a decision

   SASSA will assess your application and notify you within 7–10 working days if approved.
7. 7

   Receive your payment

   Once approved, your first payment will be deposited into your bank account. Payments continue monthly.

Applying online for the Foster Child Grant

Some SASSA services are available online, but the Foster Child Grant typically requires an in-person application because you must submit original documents and the court order. Check the SASSA website to see if online pre-registration is available in your area.

What happens if your application is declined

If SASSA declines your application, they will explain the reason. Common reasons include:

• Household income exceeds the means test limit.
• The court order is invalid or expired.
• Missing or incomplete documents.
• The child does not meet age or residency requirements.

You can reapply immediately after a decline if you have corrected the issue. You can also appeal if you believe SASSA made an error.

How long does the Foster Child Grant last?

The Foster Child Grant continues until the child turns 18 or until the court order is cancelled. You will need to provide updates to SASSA if the child's circumstances change (e.g. the child moves out, the court order is changed).

Renewing your Foster Child Grant

You do not need to reapply every year, but SASSA may ask for updated documents to confirm you are still the foster caregiver and the child is still in your care. Keep your court order and proof of residence current.

Foster Child Grant and other benefits

You may be eligible to receive multiple grants if you have more than one foster child or if you also care for biological children. Each child qualifies for a separate payment. Confirm with SASSA if you are eligible for other grants alongside the Foster Child Grant.

Contact SASSA for Foster Child Grant help

For detailed questions about the Foster Child Grant:

• Call SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 (free national helpline).
• Visit your nearest SASSA office.
• Check the official SASSA website at sassa.gov.za.

Foster Child Grant FAQs

The Foster Child Grant supports caregivers in providing for children outside the traditional family structure. This guide covers the essentials; contact SASSA directly for questions specific to your situation.