August 2025 brings important relief for foster parents and caregivers: applications for the R1,250 Foster Child Grant are officially open, with an online route available to help you apply quickly from home. The grant is designed to support caregivers looking after a child who has been placed in their care by a Children’s Court or recognised social services. To qualify, the child must be under 18 and living in South Africa, and you’ll need to provide proof of lawful foster placement along with core identification documents. Payments, once approved, are made monthly and can be received via a SASSA card, a personal bank account, or designated cash pay points. Because August typically sees higher volumes, applying early reduces delays and gives you more time to correct any document issues. Keep your phone switched on and email active so you don’t miss verification calls or messages. Save your application reference number, and remember to check your status regularly until a final decision is issued.
Who can apply & basic eligibility (know this first)
The Foster Child Grant supports a child who has been legally placed in foster care by a Children’s Court. The applicant must be the foster parent or caregiver named in the placement order, residing in South Africa, and holding valid identification (South African ID, permanent resident permit, or recognised refugee documentation). The child must be under 18 and living in the foster household. Unlike standard income-based grants, the key requirement here is the lawful foster placement and the child’s demonstrated need, supported by social worker documentation. Caregivers should ensure the placement order is current and not expired, because lapsed orders stall applications. If documents are missing, you may submit an affidavit while you work with your social worker to retrieve official records. Always provide accurate contact details, as SASSA may request in-person verification or biometric checks. Submitting complete, legible copies—front and back where applicable—prevents avoidable back-and-forth and speeds up your outcome.
How to apply online (fast step-by-step)
Start by gathering your documents: your ID or recognised permit, the child’s birth certificate (or proof of birth), the Children’s Court placement order, and proof of address. If you want payment into your bank account, add a stamped bank confirmation letter or official account verification. Next, register or sign in to the SASSA e-services portal when available, then choose the Foster Child Grant application. Carefully fill in the caregiver and child details exactly as they appear on your documents, upload clear scans or photos (preferably in PDF/JPEG), and confirm that all pages are readable. Select your preferred payment method and consent to any verification checks requested. Submit the application and note the reference number shown on screen or sent via SMS/email. You can track progress online and respond quickly to any follow-ups. If online isn’t possible, visit your nearest SASSA office with originals and certified copies for assisted capture.
Documents you’ll need (prepare before you click “submit”)
Have the following ready to avoid delays: your South African ID book/card or recognised refugee/resident permit; the child’s birth certificate or proof of birth if the certificate is pending; the Children’s Court foster care placement order naming you as the caregiver; a recent proof of address (municipal bill, bank statement, or official letter); and a bank confirmation letter if choosing direct deposit. Where available, include a social worker’s report confirming the child’s placement and current circumstances. If any document is lost, obtain a police affidavit and request replacements through Home Affairs or the Children’s Court—submit the affidavit temporarily so your application can move forward. Keep electronic copies clean and legible, showing all corners and both sides where relevant. For renewals or changes (new address, school, or caregiver), upload updated supporting letters. Remember: providing consistent names, dates of birth, and ID numbers across all documents prevents system mismatches.
After you apply: timelines, payments, renewals & quick tips
Processing can take several weeks, depending on volumes, verification, and any home or office visits arranged with your social worker. Watch your phone and inbox for SASSA messages, and respond promptly if they request additional proof. Once approved, the R1,250 is paid monthly on the schedule communicated by SASSA; you can switch to a bank account later if you initially chose the SASSA card. Keep your court order valid—renew or extend it before expiry, because lapsed orders can pause payments until reinstated. Update SASSA immediately if your contact details, address, or banking information change. For status checks, use the online portal or call the SASSA helpline; always quote your reference number. Beware of scammers: SASSA never charges an “approval fee.” If you’re uncertain about any request, verify with your social worker or the helpline first. Store all approvals, receipts, and notices together for future reviews.
