SASSA R1190 Monthly Foster Child Grant in April 2025: The SASSA R1,250 Monthly Foster Child Grant in April 2025 is a vital support mechanism for thousands of South African families. As of April 1, 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officially raised the Foster Child Grant to R1,250 per child, per month—a move welcomed by caregivers and social development advocates alike. This monthly financial assistance is designed to support those caring for children legally placed in their custody by a court order, often due to challenging circumstances such as neglect, abandonment, or the death of parents. Understanding the eligibility, how to apply, and when to expect payments can help foster parents access much-needed resources to care for vulnerable children.
SASSA R1190 Monthly Foster Child Grant
The SASSA R1,250 Monthly Foster Child Grant in April 2025 provides critical support to foster parents across South Africa. Whether you’re a first-time foster parent or renewing your grant, knowing the steps, requirements, and benefits will help ensure you receive what you’re entitled to. By supporting caregivers, the grant ensures that every child has a chance at a brighter, more stable future.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | SASSA Foster Child Grant |
| Grant Amount (from April 2025) | R1,250 per child per month |
| Previous Amount | R1,180 before April 2025 |
| Payment Date (April 2025) | April 4, 2025 |
| Eligible Applicants | Legal foster parents who are SA citizens, permanent residents, or refugees |
| Child Age Limit | Under 18 (up to 21 if in education with court extension) |
| Official Application Point | Local SASSA Office |
| Official Website | sassa.gov.za |
What Is the Foster Child Grant?
The Foster Child Grant is a social welfare benefit provided by SASSA to individuals caring for children who have been legally placed in their foster care by a court. These children may be:
- Orphaned or abandoned
- Victims of abuse or neglect
- Children at risk or without family care
This grant is not based on the income of the foster parent but rather on the child’s needs and legal placement in foster care. It’s meant to ensure that every child has access to basic needs like food, clothing, healthcare, and education.
Who Is Eligible for the Foster Child Grant?
To qualify for the SASSA Foster Child Grant, the following eligibility requirements must be met:
1. Court-Ordered Foster Care
The child must be placed in your care through a legal court order.
2. Residency
Both the foster child and foster parent must be residing in South Africa.
3. Citizenship Status
The foster parent must be a:
- South African citizen
- Permanent resident
- Recognized refugee
4. Child’s Age
The child must be:
- Under 18 years old
- If the child is in formal education, the grant may be extended up to age 21, provided that yearly proof of enrollment is submitted and the court has extended the order.
5. Continued Care
The child must remain in your foster care, and updates must be provided during SASSA reviews.
How Much Is the Foster Child Grant in April 2025?
As of April 2025, the monthly Foster Child Grant is R1,250. This amount is paid per child and is reviewed annually by the Department of Social Development as part of the national budget.
The increase from R1,180 to R1,250 reflects the government’s effort to adjust grants in line with inflation and child welfare needs.
When Will You Be Paid?
For April 2025, SASSA has scheduled Foster Child Grant payments for Friday, April 4, 2025. You can expect your payment via the method you selected during registration.
How to Apply for the SASSA R1190 Monthly Foster Child Grant: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Go to Your Nearest SASSA Office
Visit in person—applications cannot be completed online.
Step 2: Submit the Required Documents
Bring the following:
- Your 13-digit South African ID or refugee status document
- The child’s birth certificate
- Court order proving foster care placement
- Proof of marital status
- Proof of school attendance (for older children)
- Bank account details, if you choose direct deposit
If documents are missing, you’ll need to submit an affidavit and proof of application for the required documents.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
This is done in-person at the SASSA office with assistance from a caseworker.
Step 4: Get Your Receipt
You’ll receive a stamped receipt confirming your application. Keep this safe—it’s your only proof if anything goes wrong.
Payment Methods
You can receive your grant via:
- Bank Deposit (Postbank or your personal account)
- SASSA Gold Card (withdraw at ATMs or participating retailers)
- Cash at SASSA Pay Points
- Institutional Payment (if you’re in a child care facility or group home)
Real-Life Example
Meet Thuli, a 34-year-old foster mom from Limpopo. After legally fostering two siblings placed in her care by the court, she applied for the Foster Child Grant. Within eight weeks, her application was approved. She now receives R2,500 monthly for the children and uses the funds for groceries, school uniforms, and transport to therapy sessions.
What Happens After You Apply?
If your application is approved:
- You’ll receive backdated payments to the date of the court order.
- Payments are monthly and reviewed biannually or upon court order expiry.
If rejected:
- You’ll receive a written reason within 14 days.
- You have 90 days to appeal.
Reviews, Suspensions & Lapses
- Reviews: Occur based on the court order’s expiry. SASSA will notify you 3 months in advance.
- Suspensions: May happen due to failure to comply with reviews, changes in your circumstances, or fraudulent claims.
- Lapses: The grant will stop if the child turns 18 (or 21 in education), dies, or is removed from your care.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I am a relative of the child?
Yes, if the child is legally placed in your foster care by a court.
Do I need to meet a means test?
No. The Foster Child Grant does not require a means test.
What if the child finishes school before age 21?
The grant will stop unless the court has ordered continued care or further education.
How long does approval take?
Up to 90 days. Payments are backdated to the date of the court placement.
Can I receive grants for more than one foster child?
Yes. Each child must have a separate court order and you can receive R1,250 per child.
