The Foster Child Grant (FCG) is a vital social assistance program offered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to support children placed in foster care. It provides financial aid to foster parents or guardians responsible for raising children who cannot remain with their biological families due to abandonment, neglect, abuse, or orphanhood. The grant ensures that every foster child has access to proper care, education, and a stable home environment.
Overview of the Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant provides monthly financial assistance to foster parents recognized by a court order. It’s aimed at covering the essential needs of foster children, such as food, schooling, clothing, and healthcare. Unlike most SASSA grants, the Foster Child Grant is not means-tested, meaning it is not based on income — eligibility is determined by the child’s legal foster care status.
Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Administered By | South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) |
| Eligible Age | Children under 18 years |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly |
| Current Grant Amount (2025) | R1,180 per child per month |
| Means Tested | No – based on court-approved foster care |
| Foster Care Requirement | Valid court order from the Children’s Court |
Purpose of the Foster Child Grant
The purpose of the Foster Child Grant is to ensure that children in foster care have access to basic needs and a safe, nurturing environment. It helps foster parents manage the financial responsibilities that come with raising a child who is not biologically theirs.
The grant promotes:
- Child protection and welfare.
- Equal access to education and healthcare.
- Support for families fostering orphaned or vulnerable children.
- Social stability and care for children separated from their biological parents.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SASSA Foster Child Grant, both the foster parent and the foster child must meet specific eligibility requirements.
Foster Parent Requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee living in South Africa.
- Must have a valid court order proving that they are the legal foster parent of the child.
- Must live with and provide care for the foster child.
Foster Child Requirements:
- The child must be under 18 years old.
- The child must be placed in your care by the Children’s Court.
- The child must live in South Africa.
Unlike other SASSA grants, the Foster Child Grant does not depend on your income. The focus is on ensuring that legally placed foster children receive the care they need.
How to Apply for the Foster Child Grant
The application process is managed by SASSA and requires both legal and personal documentation. You can apply in person or online through the official SASSA website.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Obtain a Court Order:
Before applying, you must have a Children’s Court order confirming that the child is legally placed in your foster care. - Visit the Nearest SASSA Office:
Go to your local SASSA branch with the foster child and all required documents. - Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the Foster Child Grant form in the presence of a SASSA officer. The application is free of charge. - Submit Required Documents:
- Your South African ID or Smart ID card.
- The child’s birth certificate.
- The court order confirming foster care placement.
- Proof of residence.
- Proof of the child’s schooling (if applicable).
- Banking details (if payment via bank deposit).
- Verification and Approval:
SASSA will review your application and documents. Once approved, payments usually start within 1 to 3 months.
Payment Methods for the Foster Child Grant
SASSA provides several convenient payment options to ensure timely and secure delivery of funds.
- Direct Bank Deposit: Payments are made directly to your bank account each month.
- SASSA Gold Card: Beneficiaries can withdraw cash at ATMs, retail stores, or post offices.
- Post Office Collection: You can collect cash from designated post offices.
- CashSend Option: Beneficiaries without bank accounts can receive funds through secure CashSend services.
Duration and Renewal of the Grant
The Foster Child Grant remains valid for as long as the court order is in effect. Once the court order expires, it must be renewed for the grant to continue.
- If the foster care order lapses, SASSA will pause payments until it’s renewed.
- The grant ends when the child turns 18 years old, unless the court extends the foster care order for educational or special needs reasons.
Reasons for Suspension or Cancellation
SASSA may suspend or cancel the Foster Child Grant under certain circumstances:
- The court order expires or is withdrawn.
- The child turns 18 years old.
- The child passes away.
- The foster parent fails to collect payments for three consecutive months.
- The foster parent no longer lives with or cares for the child.
How to Check the Status of the Foster Child Grant
Beneficiaries can check the status of their application or monthly payments through multiple methods:
- Online: Visit www.sassa.gov.za and enter your ID number.
- USSD: Dial 1347737# on your cellphone.
- WhatsApp: Send “SASSA” to 082 046 8553.
- Call Centre: Contact 0800 60 10 11 for assistance.
Benefits of the Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant provides essential financial support to families and ensures that foster children have access to a better quality of life.
Key benefits include:
- Regular income for education, food, and clothing.
- Improved welfare and stability for foster children.
- Financial relief for foster parents supporting vulnerable children.
- Encourages community-based child care rather than institutionalization.
Important Tips for Beneficiaries
- Keep your court order and ID documents up to date.
- Always renew your court order before it expires to prevent suspension.
- Inform SASSA of any changes in your living situation or banking details.
- Do not pay anyone to “speed up” the application — SASSA services are free.
Conclusion
The SASSA Foster Child Grant is an essential program that supports foster parents in providing care, protection, and education to children in need. By offering financial relief, it empowers families to create safe and nurturing environments for children who have lost their parents or are victims of neglect. With proper documentation and a valid court order, foster parents can access this grant and make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.
FAQs
Q1. How much is the Foster Child Grant in 2025?
The Foster Child Grant is R1,180 per month per child.
Q2. Is the Foster Child Grant means-tested?
No, it is not means-tested — eligibility depends solely on a valid court order.
Q3. How long does the Foster Child Grant last?
It lasts until the child turns 18 years old or until the court order expires.