Child Support Grant in South Africa (2025 Guide)
The child support grant is one of the most important social grants in South Africa, designed to help caregivers raise children in need. It is managed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and supports millions of families each month.
This guide explains how much the grant pays, who qualifies, and how to apply at SASSA.
How Much Is the Child Support Grant in 2025?
As of 2025, the child support grant is:
- R560 per child per month
- Plus a R280 top-up (for qualifying cases)
Payments are made monthly, and you can choose to receive the money:
- In cash at a designated pay point
- By electronic deposit into your bank or Postbank account (note: bank charges may apply)
- Through an institution acting as administrator of the grant
👉 If you cannot collect the money yourself, you may appoint a procurator at a SASSA office or give someone power of attorney.
Who Is Eligible for the Child Support Grant?
To qualify, you must:
- Be the child’s primary caregiver (parent, grandparent, or a child over 16 heading a household)
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Not earn more than R52,800 per year if you are single
- Not earn more than R105,600 per year combined if you are married
The child must:
- Be under 18 years old
- Live with the caregiver (who is not paid to look after the child)
- Not be cared for in a state institution
- Live in South Africa
⚠️ You cannot claim this grant for more than six children who are not your biological or legally adopted children.
How to Apply for the Child Support Grant at SASSA
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit your nearest SASSA office with:
- Your 13-digit bar-coded South African ID
- The child’s birth certificate
If you do not have an ID or the child’s birth certificate, you must complete a SASSA affidavit in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths and provide supporting documents (such as a sworn statement by a community leader, proof of ID application, baptismal certificate, clinic card, or school report).
- Provide supporting documents if applicable:
- Proof of income
- Proof of maintenance for the child
- Marriage certificate or divorce order (if applicable)
- Death certificate if one or both parents are deceased
- Missing person’s report if a parent is missing
- Complete the application form in the presence of a SASSA official.
- Keep the receipt — this is proof that you applied.
How Long Does It Take?
- It may take up to three months to process your application.
- If approved, payments will be backdated to the date of application.
How Much Does It Cost?
- Applying is free of charge.
What If Your Application Is Not Approved?
- SASSA will notify you in writing with reasons.
- If you disagree, you can appeal to the Minister of Social Development within 90 days of being notified.
When Can the Grant Be Reviewed, Suspended, or End?
- Reviewed: SASSA may review based on your declared income. A life certificate may be required annually.
- Suspended: Can happen if your circumstances change, if you commit fraud, or if you fail to cooperate with reviews.
- Lapse: The grant ends if:
- The child passes away
- The child is admitted to a state institution
- The caregiver does not claim for three months
- The child leaves the country
- The child turns 18
Contact SASSA
For enquiries:
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za
FAQs About the Child Support Grant
How much is the child support grant in South Africa?
The grant is R560 per child per month, with a R280 top-up for qualifying children.
Who can apply for the child support grant?
Any South African citizen or permanent resident who is the primary caregiver of a child under 18, and who meets the income requirements.
How long does it take for SASSA to approve the grant?
It may take up to three months, but payments are backdated to your application date.
Can I apply for the child support grant online?
Currently, applications must be done at a SASSA office in person.