How to Apply for the Foster Child Grant

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SASSA offers the Foster Child Grant to provide financial support for caregivers raising children who are not their biological offspring.

This grant helps ease the financial burden of foster care and ensures the well-being of these children.

If you’re a foster parent in South Africa, you must know how to go about the application process for this grant.

What is the Foster Child Grant?

The Foster Child Grant is a monthly financial grant provided by SASSA to South African citizens or legal residents caring for foster children.

The purpose is to offer assistance with the costs associated with raising a child who is not biologically yours.

Who is Eligible for the Foster Child Grant?

Not everyone can apply for the Foster Child Grant. Here are the eligibility criteria:

  1. South African residency: You must be a permanent legal resident of South Africa.
  2. Foster care documentation: You must have a valid court order confirming your legal foster parent status for the child in question.
  3. Financial need: While there’s no formal means test, the grant prioritizes those who demonstrate financial need.
  4. Child’s citizenship: The child you’re fostering must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.

What documents do I need to apply for the Grant?

Below is a list of documents required when applying for the Foster Child Grant:

  1. Your valid South African ID document (13-digit bar-coded).
  2. The foster child’s birth certificate (original or certified copy).
  3. If you’re a refugee, you’ll need your refugee ID and status permit.
  4. Proof of foster care status: A certified copy of the court order awarding you legal foster care of the child.
  5. If you don’t have an ID or the child’s birth certificate, you can submit alternative documents like:
    • Temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA).
    • Baptismal certificate (if available).
    • Road to health clinic card (if available).
    • School certificate of the child (if applicable).
  6. Proof that you’ve applied for the missing documents at the DoHA (if applicable).

Where can I apply for the Foster Child Grant?

You can apply for the Foster Child Grant at your nearest SASSA office.

The application form for the Foster Child Grant will be provided by a SASSA official at your local office.

They will also assist you in completing the form if needed. It’s important to ensure all information is accurate and complete.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you submit your application, a SASSA official will capture your fingerprints.

They will also advise you on the following steps:

  1. If you lack an ID or the child’s birth certificate, you’ll be guided on applying for them at the DoHA.
  2. You’ll receive a receipt as proof of application. Keep this document safe for future reference.
  3. SASSA will process your application and notify you of the outcome in writing.

How to Apply for the Foster Child Grant

The application process for the Foster Child Grant is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Visit your nearest SASSA local office: Locate your nearest SASSA office using the branch finder tool on their website.
  2. Inform the SASSA officer of your intention to apply: Let them know you’d like to apply for the Foster Child Grant.
  3. Complete the application form: A SASSA officer will assist you in filling out the application form. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
  4. Submit your documents: Along with the completed application form, provide the required documents mentioned earlier.
  5. Fingerprints and verification: The SASSA officer will take your fingerprints for verification purposes.
  6. Application receipt: Upon successful application submission, you’ll receive a receipt as proof. Keep it safe for future reference.

You must make sure all sections of the application are filled out, and all necessary documents are included. Incomplete applications may lead to delays or rejection.

It normally takes several weeks to receive a response from SASSA regarding your application status.

If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision.

SASSA will provide you with information on the appeals process at the time of rejection.

How long does it take to receive the Foster Child Grant?

The processing time for Foster Child Grant applications can vary depending on individual circumstances.

However, it takes several weeks to receive a decision from SASSA.

If your application is rejected, SASSA will inform you of the reason in writing.

You have the right to appeal the decision if you believe there’s been an error.