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R1 250 per child · Court order

Foster Child Grant

Awarded to a foster parent recognised by a Children's Court order, the Foster Child Grant helps cover the day-to-day cost of raising a child who cannot be cared for by their biological family.

Amount

The grant pays R1 250 per foster child per month. There is no cap on the number of children, but the court order must cover each child individually.

Who qualifies

  • You are a South African citizen, permanent resident or refugee.
  • A children's court has legally placed the child in your foster care.
  • You and the child are living together in South Africa.
  • The child is under 18. Older children who are still in school full-time can be extended to age 21 with a court order.

Unlike most other grants, the Foster Child Grant does not apply a means test to the foster parent's income.

The court process comes first

You cannot apply directly to SASSA — a designated social worker at the Department of Social Development must open a case, investigate the child's circumstances, and refer the matter to the Children's Court. Only when the court issues a formal foster-care order can you approach SASSA.

Typical steps:

  1. Contact your local Department of Social Development office or a designated child protection organisation.
  2. A social worker interviews you, the child, and the biological family.
  3. The social worker files a report at the Children's Court.
  4. The magistrate issues a placement order — usually valid for two years.
  5. Bring the order to SASSA to apply for the grant.

Documents to bring to SASSA

  • Your 13-digit bar-coded ID.
  • Certified copy of the child's birth certificate.
  • Court order confirming foster-care placement.
  • Proof of your address and marital status.
  • Bank account details (in your name).

Renewing the court order

Foster-care orders lapse — usually every two years — and must be extended by the court. If the order is not renewed on time, SASSA will suspend the grant. Work with your allocated social worker at least three months before the expiry date.

Kinship carers, take note. If you are a relative (grandparent, aunt, older sibling) informally caring for a child, you may not qualify for the Foster Child Grant. In most cases the Child Support Grant is the appropriate option unless the court chooses to formalise a foster placement.

Reporting duties

Foster parents must report changes to SASSA within 30 days, including: the child moving to a different home; the death of the child; changes to your address or marital status; and completion of schooling before age 18.