How to Apply for a Child support grant?

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SASSA offers the Child Support Grant to eligible caregivers of children.

This grant provides financial assistance to help meet the basic needs of these children.

If you’re a South African resident caring for a child, understanding the application process for this grant is important.

What is the Child Support Grant?

The Child Support Grant is a monthly payment from SASSA to help caregivers meet the basic needs of a child.

It’s not means-tested, meaning income level isn’t the only deciding factor for eligibility.

However, there are other criteria that must be met.

Who is Eligible for the Child Support Grant?

To be eligible for the Child Support Grant, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Primary Caregiver: You must be the child’s primary caregiver. This means you have the day-to-day responsibility for the child’s welfare.
  2. Citizenship: You (the caregiver) must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
  3. Child’s Residence: Both you and the child must reside in South Africa.
  4. Child’s Age: The child must be born after 31 December 1993.
  5. Number of Children: You cannot apply for more than six non-biological children.
  6. State Institutions: The child cannot be in the care of a state institution.

What are the Required Documents for Application?

Before applying, you must ensure you have the following documents:

  1. ID Documents: Certified copies of your ID (applicant) and the child’s birth certificate (or ID, if applicable).
  2. Marital Status Proof:
    • If married: Certified copy of your marriage certificate.
    • If divorced: Certified copy of the divorce decree.
    • If widowed: Certified copy of the death certificate of your spouse.
  3. Spouse’s ID (if applicable): Certified copy of your spouse’s ID document if you’re married.
  4. Proof of Income (if applicable): If you declare having an income, you’ll need proof (payslips, bank statements, etc.). An affidavit stating no income is required if you have none.
  5. Proof of Caregiver Status: Documents demonstrating you’re the primary caregiver (school registration documents, clinic cards, etc.).

How to Apply for the Child Support Grant

There are two ways to apply for the Child Support Grant:

  1. In-Person Application: Visit your nearest SASSA office. SASSA staff will assist you with the application form and ensure you submit the necessary documents.
  2. Online Application: SASSA offers an online application system. You’ll need to create an account and upload scanned copies of the required documents.

You must remember that the processing time for applications can vary.

However, you can generally expect a response within two to three months

You can check the status of your application online using your SASSA account or by calling the SASSA toll-free number: 0800 601 160.

Once approved, the grant will be paid monthly into your SASSA card account.

You can collect the funds at any SASSA pay point or withdraw them using your SASSA card at ATMs.

What is the value of the Child Support Grant?

The value of the Child Support Grant is adjusted annually. You can find the current grant amount on the SASSA website or by contacting SASSA directly.

Can I apply for the Child Support Grant on behalf of someone else?

In some cases, yes. You can apply on behalf of someone else if you have a valid power of attorney granted by the child’s caregiver.

What if my application for the Child Support Grant is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you’ll receive a notification from SASSA outlining the reasons.

You have the right to appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the notification.

Can I still apply without all the required documents?

SASSA can assist you in obtaining certain documents, such as affidavits for missing IDs or birth certificates.

It’s best to contact your nearest SASSA office to discuss your specific situation.