SASSA Foster Child Grant
The Foster Child Grant is a legal financial provision for families who are caring for a child who is not their biological child, and who has been officially placed in their care by the South African Children’s Court. A valid court order and social worker intervention are strictly required.
When will the grant expire?
Unlike other grants, the Foster Child Grant lapses automatically. Use our tool to see if you can legally extend the grant based on the child's current age and schooling status.
Eligibility & Legal Requirements
Court Order Requirements
- You must possess a valid Children's Court Order explicitly stating the child is placed in your foster care.
- You and the child must live in South Africa.
- The grant is applicable until the child turns 18 (unless extended for schooling).
- The child must remain in your care; you cannot claim if the child moves to a state institution.
Required Documents
- Your 13-digit barcoded ID.
- The child's birth certificate or ID.
- The official Court Order indicating foster care status.
- Proof of your marital status (marriage certificate or divorce decree).
- A report or letter from the designated social worker assigned to the child's case.
Critical Warnings to Avoid Disruption
This is the #1 reason foster payments stop. Foster care court orders typically expire every two years. You must contact your social worker months before the expiration date to have the order renewed by the Children's Court.
SASSA will automatically stop the grant in the month the child turns 18. If the child is still completing high school, you must submit a school attendance certificate to SASSA to extend the grant (up to age 21).
If you move to a new province or city, you must notify your social worker immediately so your case file can be transferred. If SASSA or the social worker cannot locate you, the grant will be suspended.