Child Support Grant 2026 — How to Apply and Qualify
The Child Support Grant (CSG) is paid to the primary caregiver of a child under 18. In 2026, the grant is R560 per child per month. It is one of the most widely accessed SASSA grants, supporting millions of South African children. This guide explains who qualifies, what documents to bring, how to apply, and what to do if your application is declined.
Who Qualifies for the Child Support Grant?
Requirements for the Caregiver
- South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with valid documentation
- Primary caregiver of the child (not necessarily the biological parent)
- Pass the means test: single caregivers earning less than approximately R5,100/month; married caregivers with combined income less than R10,200/month
Requirements for the Child
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Under 18 years old
- Not in state care (e.g. a children's home funded by the state)
- Not married or in a civil union
Documents You Need to Apply
- Your South African ID document (original — not a photocopy)
- Child's birth certificate (unabridged preferred)
- If you are not the biological parent: a court order, legal guardianship proof, or a sworn affidavit explaining your relationship with the child
- Proof of income (payslip, bank statement) — or a sworn affidavit that you have no income
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, or sworn affidavit)
- Child's Road to Health booklet (for children under 5) — useful but not always required
How to Apply for the Child Support Grant
- Gather all your documents (see list above)
- Locate your nearest SASSA office at sassa.gov.za
- Take a queue ticket and wait for a SASSA official
- Complete the application form — the SASSA official will assist you
- SASSA verifies your documents and captures your biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
- You receive an acknowledgement slip with a reference number
- SASSA processes your application — this takes up to 3 months
- You receive a letter confirming approval or decline
Tip: Arrive at the SASSA office early — ideally before 8am. Queues can be very long, especially on the first week of the month. Bring snacks and water for the wait.
How Much Is the Child Support Grant in 2026?
The Child Support Grant is R560 per child per month in 2026. If you are the caregiver of multiple qualifying children, you can apply for each child separately and receive R560 per child each month.
How Is the Grant Paid?
Payment options include:
- Direct deposit into a South African bank account (any major bank)
- SASSA card — withdraw at Post Office or PostBank ATMs
- Retail partners: Boxer, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, Spar, Woolworths
- SASSA pay points in rural areas
Can You Apply Online?
Currently, the Child Support Grant application must be done in person at a SASSA office. You cannot apply fully online. However, you can check your application status and update banking details online at sassa.gov.za.
What to Do If Your Application Is Declined
You have the right to appeal within 90 days of the decline. Visit your nearest SASSA office and ask for a “Request for Reconsideration” form. Provide supporting documents that address the reason for decline. See our full guide: How to Appeal a Declined SASSA Grant.
Child Support Grant for Teenagers (16–17 Years Old)
Children aged 16–17 must have a South African ID document (not just a birth certificate) for SASSA's records. The caregiver must bring the teenager to a SASSA office for biometric capturing. Remember to apply for their Smart ID before turning 16 — see our Smart ID Card guide.