As the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) enters 2025, several updates have been made to children’s grants, providing essential support for millions of families across the country.
These grants, designed to alleviate financial pressure and meet the needs of vulnerable children, have seen adjustments in payment rates to align with the rising cost of living.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Child Support Grant, Care Dependency Grant, Foster Child Grant, and other updates for 2025.
New Payment Schedule for January 2025
The first payment cycle for SASSA grants in the New Year began on January 6 and 7, 2025:
- January 6: Payments for elderly and disability grants were processed.
- January 7: Payments for children’s grants, including Child Support and Foster Child Grants, were distributed.
Updated Payment Rates for Children’s Grants in 2025
SASSA has implemented modest increases in grant payments to better support caregivers and children.
| Grant Type | Previous Amount (2024) | New Amount (2025) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Support Grant | R510 | R530 | R20 |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,180 | R2,190 | R10 |
| Child Support Top-Up (Orphans) | R790 | R800 | R10 |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,130 | R1,180 | R50 |
Details of Each Grant
1. Child Support Grant
This grant is aimed at parents or caregivers who are unable to meet the financial needs of their children due to unemployment or poverty.
- Eligibility: Available for children under 18 years old.
- New Amount: R530 per child per month.
- Additional Benefits: SASSA provides support for school uniforms in cases of hardship or loss due to disaster.
2. Care Dependency Grant
This grant supports caregivers of children with severe disabilities who require full-time care.
- Eligibility: Requires medical documentation confirming the child’s disability.
- New Amount: R2,190 per month.
3. Child Support Grant Top-Up
Introduced to assist caregivers of orphaned children, the top-up payment ensures better care and resources.
- Eligibility: Available for children identified as orphans, with proof of status.
- New Amount: R800 per month (R530 base grant + R270 top-up).
4. Foster Child Grant
This grant supports individuals providing care for children placed in their custody through a court order.
- Eligibility: Requires a valid foster care court order.
- New Amount: R1,180 per child per month.
Other Key Updates for 2025
- Relief of Distress (SRD) Payments:
- Payments for Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants will be processed between January 25 and January 31, 2025.
- School Support:
- SASSA has expanded its assistance to include school uniforms for children whose caregivers face financial hardship or in cases of disaster-related loss.
Why These Updates Matter
1. Financial Relief for Families
These updates ensure that caregivers and families have the resources to meet their children’s needs, especially during economically challenging times.
2. Addressing Vulnerable Groups
By increasing the grants, SASSA demonstrates its commitment to supporting children, especially those who are orphaned or have special needs.
3. Reducing Inequality
These adjustments contribute to closing the socio-economic gap in South Africa, ensuring equal opportunities for all children.
SASSA’s 2025 updates to children’s grants reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to provide financial stability for vulnerable families.
With increased payment rates and added benefits, caregivers can better meet the essential needs of children, whether for food, healthcare, or education.
As the cost of living continues to rise, these grants serve as a critical lifeline for millions of South Africans, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for the nation’s children.
For detailed information or assistance, beneficiaries can contact SASSA or visit their official platforms.
Who qualifies for the Child Support Grant in 2025?
The grant is available to caregivers of children under 18 years old who meet the income threshold for eligibility.
What is the new amount for the Foster Child Grant in 2025?
The Foster Child Grant increased to R1,180 per month.
When will SASSA process Covid-19 SRD payments for January 2025?
Payments will be processed between January 25 and January 31, 2025.
