SASSA Child Support Grant

The SASSA Child Support Grant is a crucial financial aid designed to assist low-income families in South Africa in meeting the basic needs of their children. Similar to the SASSA Foster Child Grant, it ensures that parents or primary caregivers have the necessary support to provide for their children. Importantly, only one application per child can be considered at a time for these grants.

Overview of the SASSA Child Support Grant

The SASSA Child Care Grant is offered to the primary caregiver of a child under the age of 18. This caregiver can be the child’s parent, grandparent, or any responsible adult over 18 who heads the family. Notably, caregivers can receive grants for up to six children, even if they are not the biological or legal parents of these children.

Eligibility Criteria for SASSA Child Support Grant

Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for the SASSA Child Support Grant:

  • Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens, recognized refugees, or hold permanent residency status.
  • Identification: While having a South African ID (13-digit barcode or smart card) is preferred, applications can be submitted without it.
  • Residency: Applicants must live in South Africa with the child they are caring for.
  • Primary Caregiver: The applicant must be the primary caregiver of the child, who can be a parent, grandparent, or responsible adult over 16 years old.
  • Age of Child: The child must be under 18 years old.
  • State Institution: The child must not be living in a state institution (orphanage or government care facility).
  • Means Test: Both the applicant and their spouse (if married) must meet the means test criteria. As of April 1, 2023, the annual income should not exceed R60,000 for single applicants and R120,000 for married applicants.

Required Documents for SASSA Child Support Grant Application

When applying for the grant, it is essential to bring the following documents to the SASSA office:

Identification Documents:

  • The applicant’s original 13-digit bar-coded ID.
  • The child’s baptismal certificate, school certificate, or Road to Health Clinic (RTHC) card if available.

Without ID Documents:

  • Complete an affidavit form using the official SASSA template, signed by an Oaths Commissioner not associated with SASSA.

Without Birth Certificate:

  • A signed statement from a community leader, social worker, religious leader, or school principal confirming the applicant’s and child’s identity.

Documents for Caregivers:

  • Proof of primary caregiver status, such as a letter from the school principal, a sworn statement from a law enforcement agency, or an authorization letter from the child’s biological parents.
  • Marriage certificate if married.
  • Court order granting custody if divorced.
  • Social worker’s report if applicable.

Income Proofs:

  • Recent payslips or bank statements (past 3 months) if employed.
  • UIF card if receiving unemployment benefits.
  • Leaving certificate from the previous employer or proof of UIF membership if recently unemployed.
  • Latest pension receipt if receiving a pension.

The primary goal of the child support grant is to ensure children regularly attend school and complete their education. Failure to attend school can result in the denial of the grant.

Application Process for SASSA Child Support Grant

Applicants can apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant either at their nearest SASSA office or online through the SASSA services website.

Applying On Behalf of Someone Else: If the applicant cannot visit the SASSA office due to age or illness, a trusted person can apply on their behalf with the necessary documentation a letter from the applicant, and a doctor’s note.

Visiting a SASSA Office:

  • Obtain an application form from the SASSA office.
  • Complete the application form independently or with the assistance of a SASSA officer.
  • Attend an interview to determine eligibility for the grant.
  • Receive a stamped receipt from the officer, which serves as proof of application and contains the application ID.

Conclusion

The SASSA Child Support Grant is a vital financial aid program aimed at supporting low-income families in South Africa. By ensuring children’s basic needs are met, this grant plays a crucial role in promoting education and reducing poverty. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation to apply for the grant. Regularly checking the status and balance of the grant helps recipients stay informed about their financial support. In case of suspension, appealing to the Ministry of Social Development can help restore the grant if it was suspended unjustly. By responsibly utilizing this grant, caregivers can ensure that support reaches those who truly need it, fostering a more equitable society.