Introduction
SASSA’s Child Support Grant (CSG) and Foster Care Grant (FCG) both support caregivers of children, but they cater to different circumstances. Choosing the right grant is critical to avoid delays or rejections. This guide breaks down the eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and key differences between these grants in 2025, helping you make an informed decision.
Child Support Grant (CSG) Overview
Purpose
Provides financial support to primary caregivers of children under 18.
2025 Eligibility Criteria
- Child’s Age: Under 18 (no age limit for disabled children).
- Caregiver Income: ≤ R6,420/month (single) or ≤ R12,840/month (married).
- Citizenship: The child must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- No Court Order Required: The caregiver does NOT need legal guardianship.
Payment Amount
- R530/month per child (increased by R10 from 2024).
How to Apply
- Online: Via the SASSA Portal (Select “Child Support Grant”).
- In-Person: Visit a SASSA office with:
- Child’s birth certificate.
- Caregiver’s ID and proof of income.
- WhatsApp: Send “CSG” to 082 046 8553 and follow the prompts.
Processing Time: 3–6 weeks.
Link to: Child Support Grant Application Guide
Foster Care Grant (FCG) Overview
Purpose
Supports court-appointed foster parents caring for children removed from unsafe environments.
2025 Eligibility Criteria
- Court Order: Must have a valid foster care court order.
- Child’s Age: Under 18 (no age limit for disabled children).
- Caregiver Income: No income threshold (available to all income levels).
- Citizenship: The child must be a South African citizen.
Payment Amount
- R1,180/month per child (higher than CSG due to specialized care needs).
How to Apply
- Required Documents:
- Foster care court order.
- Child’s birth certificate.
- Caregiver’s ID.
- In-Person Only: Submit documents at a SASSA office.
- Social Worker Involvement: A social worker must verify the child’s placement.
Processing Time: 2–3 months (due to court order verification).
Link to: Foster Care Grant Application Checklist
Key Differences: Child Support Grant vs. Foster Care Grant
| Factor | Child Support Grant | Foster Care Grant |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Requirement | No court order needed | Valid foster care court order required |
| Income Threshold | R6,420/month (single) | No income limit |
| Payment Amount | R530/month | R1,180/month |
| Application Process | Online/WhatsApp/In-person | In-person only (with court order) |
| Purpose | General child support | Support for court-placed foster kids |
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Which Grant Should You Choose?
- Apply for the CSG if:
- You’re informally caring for a child (e.g., grandparent, relative).
- You don’t have a foster care court order.
- Apply for the FCG if:
- You’re a court-appointed foster parent.
- The child was removed from their biological parents by social services.
Note: You cannot receive both grants for the same child.
Common Application Mistakes
- Confusing Grants: Applying for FCG without a court order.
- Incomplete Documents: Missing birth certificates or expired court orders.
- Income Miscalculations: For CSG, informal income (e.g., selling goods) must be declared.
Link to: Avoiding SASSA Grant Rejections
FAQs
Q: Can I switch from CSG to FCG if I get a court order later?
- A: Yes. Inform SASSA and submit the court order to upgrade your grant.
Q: What if the foster child turns 18?
- A: FCG stops unless the child is disabled (submit medical proof).
Q: Can I apply for FCG online?
- A: No. FCG requires in-person submission due to court order verification.
Need Help?
- Call SASSA: 0800 60 10 11.
- Contact a Social Worker: For FCG applications, visit your nearest DSD office.
- Read Next: How to Appeal a Rejected Grant Application.
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