Millions of South Africans who rely on SASSA Child Support Grants are left in the dark as they wait for confirmation on possible increases.
While many expected President Ramaphosa to address this issue during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), he remained silent on the matter.
Now, all hopes are pinned on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech on 19 February to shed light on what beneficiaries can expect.
As March payments approach, concerns are growing among parents who depend on these grants to support their families.
With just weeks before April’s disbursements, there is still no official announcement on increases.
The Department of Social Development is facing internal challenges, and Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is dealing with the aftermath of decisions made by her predecessor.
Many expect only a minimal 5% increase in grants due to these ongoing struggles.
Will March 2025 Payments Be Affected?
While there is uncertainty regarding increases, March 2025 SASSA Child Support Grants will still be paid out as scheduled.
However, the recent High Court ruling that found SRD applicants were ‘unlawfully’ excluded for two years adds another layer of complexity.
If monthly SRD payments are doubled, this would cost the government an estimated R35 billion—potentially impacting core grants such as Child Support and Older Persons grants.
Currently, SASSA distributes around 13 million Child Support Grants each month, each valued at R530.
This makes it the most expensive grant program in South Africa due to the sheer number of recipients.
What Can Parents Do If They Need Support?
For those applying for SASSA Child Support Grants, the process can take up to three months.
To ensure eligibility, parents must register their newborns with the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible.
Besides the standard Child Support Grant, two additional grants will be disbursed on 6 March 2025:
- Foster Child Grant
- Childcare Dependency Grant
To qualify, applicants must meet specific income thresholds:
- Married applicants must earn less than R8,800 per month (R105,600 annually).
- Single applicants must earn less than R4,400 per month (R52,800 annually).
Successful applicants will receive back-payments dating to their original application date.
How to Apply for a Child Support Grant
If you’re planning to apply for a grant for your child, follow these steps:
- Obtain Required Documents
- Birth certificate and ID for the child
- Valid ID for the applicant and spouse (if married)
- Proof of marital status (marriage, birth, or death certificate of spouse)
- Proof of income for both parents
- A three-month bank statement (no older than three months)
- Proof of residence (a recent utility bill)
- Visit the SASSA Portal
- Book an appointment online before visiting a local SASSA office.
- Submit all necessary documents in person for verification.
Special Cases: Care Dependency and Foster Child Grants
For children with physical or mental disabilities, a Care Dependency Grant is available.
However, a government-appointed doctor must confirm the child’s condition.
Likewise, the Foster Child Grant is available only to court-appointed foster parents in accordance with the South African Child Care Act.
- Care Dependency Grant: R2,190 per month
- Foster Child Grant: R1,190 per month
The next Childcare grant payment date is set for Thursday, 6 March 2025, though any increases for April remain unconfirmed.
Need Assistance With Your SASSA Grant?
For further inquiries, contact SASSA through these channels:
- Toll-Free: 0800 60 10 11
- Head Office: 012 400 2322
- Email: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za
- Presidency Email: president@presidency.gov.za
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