The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) also administers the Foster Child Grant with a value of R1,250 to assist both children and their caregivers. It is important, especially now when the next payout is due on 5 September 2025, that all grant recipients understand how they can check their payout status. They need to do this so that they can make use of the funds at the earliest. In this article, we’ll look at eligibility, how to check payments, and how to correct issues with payments.
Eligibility Criteria for the Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant offers R1,250 to South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees. To access the funds, one needs to have an active court order that places a child, below the age of eighteen, into their care. The grant applies under the condition that both the foster parent and the child live in South Africa. The Foster Child Grant enables families to meet the costs of essential items such as food, clothing, and school fees. They are also required to maintain a valid court order as the beneficiaries, since the order must be renewed every two years as a rule. To ensure there are no disruptions in the grant, SASSA must be informed of any changes to the beneficiaries’ personal details.
Foster Child Grant Payment Inquiries
SASSA has simplified accessing payment information for the Foster Child Grant payment effective 5 September 2025. Follow the steps below to verify payments:
- Online: Go to the SASSA website (srd.sassa.gov.za), use your South African ID number to sign in, and head to the “Check Payment Status” section to see the dates and amounts of your payments. Ensure that the phone number you use is the one you registered with during the application.
- SASSA WhatsApp Number: Save the number 082 046 8553 in your contacts. Open WhatsApp chat, type ‘Status’ and your ID number and send. You will receive an automated message informing you of your grant status and the payment for September.
- SASSA Office or Pay Point: SASSA offices need to be visited in person with your ID and grant card. With the ID and grant card, an employee will verify and confirm the payment. This option is preferred for users who have no internet access.
Avoid Payment Issues
If you want to receive the R1 250 grant, you need to verify and update your bank and SASSA card details. Payments will be made into the bank accounts, to Postbank SASSA cards and for cash withdrawals at messengers pay points. If you do not receive a payment in September, then contact SASSA immediately so the issue can be resolved. It is also suggested to update your mobile number, so changes to the payments or any issues with payments can be communicated to you using SMS. While issues may arise, it is also suggested to regularly check SASSA social media for any surprising information.
Managing the Grant Effectively
Protective care grants of R1 250 provide important support to foster families too. The funds should primarily target food, school requisites and health care. Foster families should come up with a simple plan to track all spending, to reserve a small fund for ‘just in case’ emergencies and to investigate community support such as food programmes or additional support for tutoring in order to maximise the benefit from the grant.