Starting from April 2025 the SASSA Child Support Grant will receive a monthly increment from R530 to R580 according to recent government declarations. The 2025/2026 national budget features this measure which intends to support poor families during increasing inflation rates.
In this article, we will understand in detail what this increase means, who will be affected by it, how to use this aid wisely, and who can receive this assistance.
What has changed in the SASSA Child Support Grant?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Grant Amount | R530 |
| New Grant Amount | R580 |
| Effective Date | 1 April 2025 |
| Increase Percentage | 5.7% |
| Number of Beneficiary Children | Over 13 million |
| Next Payment Date | 4 April 2025 |
| Application Process | Online or at the nearest SASSA office |
| Official Website | sassa.gov.za |
What is the SASSA Child Support Grant?
The Child Support Grant provided by SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) is a monthly financial aid given to those who care for children under the age of 18. It is mainly aimed at low-income families.
Eligibility Criteria (as of 2025)
- The child must be under 18 years of age.
- Both the caregiver and the child must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Income limits: R5,500/month for a single caregiver and R11,000/month for couples.
- Both must be living in South Africa.
Why was the grant amount increased?
During his 2025 Budget speech, Finance Minister Enock Godongwana added that inflation was one of the factors behind the increase. The authorities decided on this expansion because food prices and school charges, and transportation, along with necessary expenses, had gone up.
This 5.7% rise matches South African inflation statistics, showing that the government remains dedicated to social welfare measures.
Budget impact
A total of R266 billion has been allocated to social protection in 2025, of which about R90 billion is for Child Support Grants alone. This modest increase may seem small at an individual level, but collectively it is a big relief.
Comparison to other social grants
| Type of Grant | New Monthly Amount (From April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Old Age Pension | R2,200 |
| Disability Grant | R2,200 |
| Foster Care Grant | R1,180 |
| Child Support Grant | R580 |
Although the Child Support Grant is the smallest in amount, it has the largest number of beneficiaries.
Real experiences: People’s opinions
Thandi Mokoena, a carer from Soweto, says:
- “It’s not much, but every rand counts. I have three children, so getting R90 more would help buy their tiffins or data for school apps.”
- Some people have called the increase insufficient and have called for a higher increase given the rising cost of school uniforms, transport and electricity.
How to use the increase wisely?
- Improve nutrition: Buy fresh fruit, vegetables, and protein-rich foods.
- Fulfill school needs: Set aside a portion for stationery, uniforms, or travel expenses.
- Mobile data: Buy data for online learning—this can help with younger children’s studies.
How to apply for the SASSA Child Grant?
If you are not already receiving this grant, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Gather the required documents
South African ID
Child’s birth certificate
Proof of income
Proof of address - Step 2: Apply
Online: services.sassa.gov.za
In person: Visit the nearest SASSA office - Step 3: Wait
The process takes about 21 working days. You will receive a notification via SMS once it is approved.
Payment dates April 2025
| Type of Grant | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Old Age Grant | 2 April 2025 |
| Disability Grant | 3 April 2025 |
| Child Support Grant & Others | 4 April 2025 |
Payments can be received via bank account, SASSA card, or outlets such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay.
What does it mean in the long term?
Experts believe these regular but modest increases could help reduce childhood malnutrition, dropouts, and poverty.
UNICEF says countries that invest in children’s well-being have better health and education outcomes in the long term. South Africa has shown a steady commitment to this despite economic challenges.
Experts also suggest that it would be more beneficial to link grant amounts directly to inflation and education costs in the future.
Conclusion
This R30 increase in the Child Support Grant by SASSA, while it may seem small, is welcome news for millions of poor families. It is a positive step towards the government’s social welfare policy. If you are eligible, apply immediately and use this support wisely so that your child’s future can be a little brighter.
FAQs
Q1. Will all beneficiaries receive this new amount automatically?
A1. Yes, you do not need to reapply. The new amount will be automatically added to the April 2025 payment.
Q2. What if I do not receive the new amount?
A2. Visit the nearest SASSA office or call the helpline 0800 60 10 11.
Q3. Can non-South African citizens apply?
A3. Only permanent residents, refugees, and citizens can apply if they meet the other conditions.
Q4. I don’t have my child’s birth certificate. Can I apply?
A4. In some cases, SASSA accepts alternative identification documents—check with the office for this.