SASSA Child Grant: How to Apply and Requirements

In South Africa, parents facing financial hardship have an option to apply for a SASSA child grant.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offers this grant to assist eligible individuals in providing for their children’s basic needs.

While it’s a valuable support, it’s important to note that the grant is intended to supplement income and not serve as the sole source of financial support.

To ensure that the grant reaches those who genuinely need it, specific requirements must be met when applying for a SASSA child grant.

Who Can Apply for a SASSA Child Grant?

A child, according to the Social Security Agency, is someone below 18 years of age.

The primary caregiver, which can be a parent, relative, or grandparent, can apply for the SASSA child grant. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Hold permanent residency in South Africa or be a South African citizen.
2. If unmarried, earn no more than R4,400 per month or R52,800 per year.
3. If married, your combined income should not exceed R8,800 per month.
4. If you’re not the child’s parent, you must provide proof of being the primary caregiver through an affidavit, school principal’s letter, or a social worker’s report.
5. The child must be 18 years of age or younger.
6. The child must reside with the primary caregiver.
7. The caregiver should not receive additional compensation for raising the child.
8. The child should not be under the care of any government institution.
9. A caregiver cannot receive grants for more than six children.

How to Apply for a SASSA Child Grant

Regrettably, there is no online application process for the SASSA child grant.

However, if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can visit any regional SASSA office’s service counter. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Fill out the application form at the SASSA office. No fees are charged for this.
2. A SASSA official will assist you in completing the forms, and their presence is necessary throughout the process.
3. The required documents when applying for a SASSA child grant include your bar-coded South African identification card (ID), the child’s birth certificate with an ID number, proof of income (such as payslips or bank statements), and proof of primary caregiving.

Payment Options

SASSA offers two payment methods: cash and electronic funds transfer (EFT). For cash payments, you can collect your money from designated pay points on specific days.

Alternatively, you can choose EFT for direct transfer into your bank account. The current payment amount is R760 per child per month.

Changing your preferred payment method is possible at any SASSA regional office. Payments commence three months after the application date.

In case your grant application is rejected due to not meeting all criteria, you have the option to appeal the decision.