SASSA Child Support Grant

All the parents out there who are raising children with difficulties will feel relaxed to know about the SASSA Child Support Grant. They can get R560 + R280 top-up for one child per month. The grant is a helping hand for the parents or caregivers in 2026.

With South Africa’s inflation rising to 3.6%, raising a child can become more challenging. In these times of higher prices, the Foster Child Grant provides financial support to help you care for your child more comfortably.

Let’s learn about how to apply for this grant and what the terms and conditions are for 2026.

What is a Child Support Grant?

The SASSA Child Support Grant is money from the South African government to help parents or caregivers take care of their children. It is for children under 18 years old who live with their parents or guardians. 

In 2026, a parent can get R560 every month for one child. On top of that, there is an extra R280 as a top-up in some cases. This grant helps cover costs like food, school, clothes, and healthcare.

Eligibility Criteria 2026

You and your child have to follow the rule written below:

For Parents/Caregivers:

1. You need to be the only caregiver of the child you are raising. This could be a biological parent, grandparent, or a child aged 16+ who is leading the family.
2. If you are not the child’s parent, you must show that you are the child’s primary caregiver. To do this, you need to provide a police affidavit, an affidavit from the child’s biological parent, a social worker’s report, or a letter from the child’s school principal.
3. You must have a valid South African ID with permanent residence in South Africa.
4. Annual Income Limits:
   1. Single: The annual income limit is R52 800.
   2. Married: The annual income should be under R105 600.

For Child:

• The child must be living with the primary caregiver.
• The child must be below 18 years old.
• The child should not be living in any state institution.

SASSA Child Support Grant Application In the SASSA Office

Before you go to the SASSA office and apply for the grant, you should know how to write an affidavit if you or your child does not have an ID.

What is an Affidavit?

An affidavit is a sworn statement that confirms certain facts are true. When applying for a SASSA grant, an affidavit is needed if you don’t have an ID, or you are not the child’s parent, or if extra proof of caregiving is required. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare one:

Use the Standard SASSA Format

SASSA requires affidavits to follow their official format. You can get the form from a SASSA office or download it from the SASSA website. Make sure to fill in all sections clearly.

Sign Before a Commissioner of Oaths

The affidavit must be signed in front of a Commissioner of Oaths. This person can be a lawyer, notary, or any authorized official, but not a SASSA employee. Their signature makes your statement legally binding.

Include Your Personal Information

Begin by stating your full name, ID number, and address. Also, include the child’s full name, date of birth, and your relationship with the child.

State the Purpose of the Affidavit

Clearly explain why you are submitting the affidavit. For example, confirm that you are the child’s primary caregiver and responsible for their daily care and well-being.

Provide Supporting Details

Include information about your relationship with the child, how long you have been caring for them, and any circumstances that require you to provide care.

Attach Supporting Documents

You may need to include documents such as:

• A sworn statement from someone reputable (like a councillor, social worker, religious leader) who knows you and the child.
• Proof that you have applied for the child’s ID or birth certificate.
• Temporary ID or other identification documents, if available.
• Any relevant school reports, clinic cards, or baptismal certificates that can support your claim.

Conclude and Swear

End the affidavit by affirming that the information provided is true to the best of your knowledge. Sign it in front of the Commissioner of Oaths, who will also sign and stamp it.

Keep Copies as Proof

Make copies of the signed affidavit and all attachments. Submit the originals or certified copies to SASSA when requested.

Now go to the SASSA office and follow the application process below:

1. Get the application form from the SASSA officer.
2. Read it and then fill it out in the presence of a SASSA officer.
3. Attach all the document’s copies.
4. Perform a biometric verification.
5. Submit the application form to the officer and get the receipt from him.

Your application will be submitted, and you will be notified when your application is approved or declined.

What Are the SASSA Child Support Grant Dates for 2026?

The SASSA Child Support Grant is paid monthly to help parents and caregivers support their children. In 2026, the grant will be paid on specific days each month. It is important to know these dates so you can plan your finances and ensure your child’s needs are met. 

Payments are usually made on a Wednesday, but dates may change if there are holidays or other official announcements. Below is a table showing the first three payment dates for 2026.

Month	Payment Date	Day
January	8 Jan 2026	Wednesday
February	5 Feb 2026	Wednesday
March	6 Mar 2026	Wednesday

F.A.Q

Who can apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant?

Any parent or primary caregiver of a child under 18 who meets SASSA’s eligibility rules.

How much money do I get per child?

You can receive R560 per month, plus an extra R280 top-up in some cases.

Can a child over 18 receive this grant?

No, the grant is only for children under 18 years old.

What documents are needed to apply?

You need your ID, the child’s birth certificate or ID, proof of income, and supporting affidavits if required.

How will I know if my application is approved?

SASSA will notify you once your application is processed.