SASSA Child Support Grant (CSG)

The SASSA Child Support Grant is designed to help lower-income households with the basic costs of raising a child. You do not need to be the biological parent to apply—you simply need to be the child's primary caregiver (grandparent, older sibling, or extended family member).

Do you qualify financially?

SASSA uses a "Means Test" to ensure grants go to those who need them most. Use our live calculator to check if your income falls below the current legal threshold.

Current Payout Amount R530 per month, per child

Marital Status

Total Monthly Income (Before Tax)

Eligibility & Requirements

General Rules

The primary caregiver must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
The applicant and the child must currently reside in South Africa.
The child must be under 18 years old.
You cannot get this grant for more than 6 children who are not your legally adopted/biological children.
The child cannot be cared for in a state institution.

Document Checklist

Tap the items as you pack them for your SASSA branch visit.

Your original 13-digit Barcoded ID or Smart ID Card. The child's original Birth Certificate. Proof of income (Payslip, pension slip, or 3 months bank statements). If unemployed: A sworn SASSA affidavit stating you have no income. If married: Your spouse's ID and proof of their income.

The CSG "Top-Up" Provision

If you are caring for a child who is an orphan (both parents are deceased), or whose parents have abandoned them, you are eligible for the CSG Top-Up. This adds an additional R250 per month to the basic grant. You do not need a court order (like the Foster Child Grant), but you will need death certificates or an affidavit from a social worker proving the child's orphan/abandoned status.

How to Apply

Unlike the SRD R350 grant, the Child Support Grant cannot be fully processed online. Because it involves verifying the identity and welfare of a minor, you must apply in person at your nearest SASSA office or service point.

Take your completed documents (from the checklist above) to the SASSA branch.
A SASSA officer will interview you and help you fill out the application form in their presence.
You will be given a receipt with a reference number. Keep this receipt safe, as it is your only proof of application.
Processing typically takes up to 30 days. If approved, you will be paid backdated from the exact day you applied.

grantZA is an independent informational guide. For official payment dates, disputes, or technical issues, please contact the SASSA toll-free helpline directly at 0800 60 10 11.