SASSA Foster Child Grant: R1,180 Per Month for Foster Parents
The Foster Child Grant pays R1,180 per month per child to foster parents who have been awarded foster care by a Children's Court. The grant helps cover the cost of raising a child who is in need of care and protection. This guide explains eligibility, the application process, required documents, and what happens when the court order expires.
Foster Child Grant amount (2026): R1,180 per month per child. SASSA toll-free: 0800 60 10 11. Website: www.sassa.gov.za.
What Is the Foster Child Grant?
The Foster Child Grant (FCG) is a social grant of R1,180 per month per child (2026 amount) paid by SASSA to foster parents who hold a valid court order granting them foster care of a child.
The grant is meant to assist with the costs of raising a foster child. It is paid until the child turns 18, or until age 22 if the child is still in school.
Who Qualifies for the Foster Child Grant?
Applicant Requirements
- You must be the registered foster parent with a valid Children's Court order awarding you foster care.
- You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- You must not be receiving another grant for the same child that covers the same needs.
The Foster Child Grant is linked to the court order. If the court order expires and is not renewed, your grant will be suspended. Always renew your court order before it expires.
Child Requirements
- The child must be in the foster care of the applicant by court order.
- The child must be under 18 years old (or up to 22 if still in school or studying).
- The child must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- The child must be in need of care and protection as determined by the court.
Documents Required
- Your South African ID document.
- The child's birth certificate (certified copy).
- The original Children's Court order placing the child in your foster care.
- Proof of residence.
- Completed SASSA application form.
- School enrolment proof if the child is between 18 and 22 years old.
How to Apply
- Obtain the Children's Court order for foster care. This is done through the Department of Social Development and the courts before you can apply to SASSA.
- Once you have the court order, visit your nearest SASSA office.
- Complete the Foster Child Grant application form with help from a SASSA official.
- Submit all documents including the original court order.
- SASSA will process your application. Approval is usually within 90 days.
- Once approved, the grant is paid monthly to your nominated bank account or SASSA card.
Renewing the Foster Child Grant
Children's Court orders for foster care are usually issued for two years. You must apply to the Children's Court for a renewal before the order expires. Once you have the renewed court order, take it to SASSA to continue receiving the grant.
SASSA will suspend the grant if the court order expires. Do not wait until the last moment to renew.
If you have multiple foster children, each child requires a separate court order and a separate grant application.