From education to healthcare, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers incredible financial support to low-income families.

In today’s high-inflation economy, raising children and covering their expenses is a challenge for average-income households in South Africa. The SASSA Child Support Grant is a blessing for parents struggling to provide a decent living standard for their children. 

The process to apply for child grant online has become much more convenient than ever. If your child is under 18 and meets the eligibility criteria, you can easily apply and receive assistance to help cover their basic needs.

What is the SASSA Child Support Grant?

The SASSA Child Grant is a financial assistance program provided by the South Africa Social Security Agency to support low-income households. The monthly grant helps parents and guardians cover the basic necessities required for their children’s physical and mental development. This program specifically targets guardians of children under the age of 18.

Eligibility Requirements to Apply for Child Grant Online

Before applying for the SASSA Child Support Grant, make sure you meet the following eligibility requirements, which apply to both the guardians and children.

Eligibility Criteria for Parents/Guardians

The following eligibility criteria must be met to qualify for the SASSA Child Grant:

  • The applicant must be the primary caregiver of the family, like parents, grandparents, or legal guardians responsible for the child’s care.

  • The parents or guardians must be a citizen and permanent residents of South Africa. He may be asked for residency proof in the form of a utility bill copy or an official letter from a local authority. 

  • If the child is the head of the household, he must be above 16 years of age. 

  • The applicant must clear the Means Test used to evaluate the financial condition of the family, including income and assets. The family home will not be included in the assets list.

  • If the primary caregiver is single, his total annual income must be less than R60,000. For married couples, the combined annual income must not exceed R120,000. You should also check general SASSA SRD Requirements before applying.

  • In the case of non-biological children, the Child Grant can be offered for up to six legally adopted children only. Also, the applicant must attach a Foster Care Certificate or Proof of Legal Guardianship with the application.

  • The South African resident Carer must have a 13-digit barcoded Identity Document, whereas refugees can provide a Section 24 Permit as identity. 

Eligibility Criteria for Child

  • The child must live with the primary caregiver.

  • The child must be 18 years old or younger.

  • He/she must have a South African citizenship.

  • The child must not be cared for in a state institution.

How to Apply for Child Grant Online? 5 Easy Steps to Follow

The online application process for the SASSA Child Support Grant is simple and involves a few easy steps to follow. 

Visit the Official SASSA Website

Visit the official website of SASSA to submit your application online. Make sure to have a stable internet connection and keep all the required documents before starting the online application procedure. 

Register your Account and Log In

If you are a first-time visitor, register your account by providing the required information and entering the OTP sent to your mobile phone to verify your identity. If you already have an account, simply log in using your credentials.

Start the application procedure by clicking on the ‘Apply for a Grant’ option. A list of all available SASSA grants will appear. Select the ‘Child Support Grant’ to proceed. 

Complete the Online Application 

Fill out the application form to apply for a Child Grant online using your accurate information. For any confusion, you may visit the SASSA office and seek assistance from the relevant staff.

Upload the Required Documents

Attach all the required documents in PDF format with the application along with the Affidavit issued by SASSA. You can also check. Also make sure to scan all the documents or take high-resolution photos to avoid submitting blurry or unclear images.  

Submit Your Application 

Before submitting your application, carefully review all the entered information and cross-check all the credentials. Once confirmed, click the ‘Done’ tab to complete the process. 

Documents Required for Child Support Grant Application

To apply for Child Grant online, you must have the following documents to be attached to the application form:

  • The child’s Birth Certificate.

  • A copy of the South African Identity Document (ID).

  • Proof of Residence in the form of a utility bill or lease agreement.

  • A school Admission Certificate for children above 7 years.

  • Your salary slip, pension document, or bank statement of 3 months as proof of your income.

  • The unemployed primary applicant will attach an Unemployment Insurance Fund Card with the application.

 How Long Does it Take to Get a Response?

Generally, it takes around 1 to 3 months for SASSA to review and respond to your application. To avoid unnecessary delays, its important to regularly check your application status so that any issues can be addressed timely.

Payment Methods to Receive SASSA Child Grant

Once your application for SASSA Child Support is approved, you will receive the grant every month. You can get the payment via your bank account, SASSA Gold Card, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Boxer, or CashSend. 

You may receive payment through a SASSA recognized institute that acts as a third-party administrator of the grant. Also, if you can not collect the money yourself, you can give someone a power of attorney to receive SAASA grants monthly on your behalf. 

What if Your Child Social Grant Got Rejected?

If SASSA rejects your application, you will be provided a document clearly stating the reasons for the refusal. If you disagree with the decision, you can file an appeal to the Ministry of Social Development within 90 days.

What Much is Child Support Grant and Payment Date in 2025?

The SASSA Child Grant amount is subject to annual adjustments. As of now, SASSA provides R530 per month to primary caregivers for every eligible child. The SASSA Child Grant date in 2025 is announced as 4th April. You can also check payment Dates of 2025 from here.

How to Check SASSA Grant Payment Status?

To check the status of your Child Support Grant payment, you can use the following methods:

  • Contact the SASSA toll-free helpline number 0800 60 10 11.

  • Avail SMS Service of your bank where you will get a notification for each deposited amount.

  • Use the SASSA online services portal to track the status of payment.

  • Open WhatsApp and send a message ‘SASSA’ at 082 046 8553. You will get all the details promptly.