SASSA Status Check for Foster Child Grant [2025]

Have you ever wondered how foster parents in South Africa manage the financial costs of raising children who are not their own? What if there was a program specifically designed to ease the burden and provide a lifeline for foster families?

In this article, I will explain everything you need to know about the Foster Child Grant, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and how to check your payment status online in 2025.

SASSA Foster Child Grant [Status, Eligibility, Application]

The Foster Child Grant is a monthly financial aid program from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) that provides financial support to foster parents caring for children placed under their care through a court order. This grant ensures that vulnerable children in foster care have access to essential needs such as education, healthcare, and daily necessities.

Understanding the SASSA Foster Child Grant

The Foster Child Grant is a government-funded financial aid program designed to support legal foster parents caring for children who have been placed under their care by a court order. This grant helps ensure that foster children receive the resources they need to thrive.

What is the Foster Child Grant?

The Foster Child Grant is a monthly stipend provided by SASSA to foster parents who have been legally assigned the responsibility of caring for a child.

Purpose of the Grant

• To ensure that foster children have access to food, clothing, education, and healthcare.
• To provide financial relief to foster parents, making it easier for them to care for vulnerable children.
• To promote child welfare by ensuring that children in foster care receive the same opportunities as other children.

Why the Foster Child Grant is Important?

The Foster Child Grant plays a crucial role in ensuring that foster children have access to food, healthcare, education, and a safe living environment. Without this support, many caregivers would struggle to meet the essential needs of the children under their care.

How Much is the Foster Child Grant in 2025?

The Foster Child Grant provides R1,180 per month per child as of October 2024 in 2025. This amount is reviewed annually to adjust for inflation and cost of living.

Key Benefits of the Foster Child Grant

• Monthly financial assistance for foster parents.
• Covers basic needs like food, clothing, and school supplies.
• Provides access to healthcare services.
• Ensures a stable and nurturing environment for children in foster care.

How to Apply for the Foster Child Grant?

Applying for the Foster Child Grant is straightforward but requires specific documentation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Nearest SASSA Office – Apply in person with the necessary documents.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Your South African ID (or proof of identity).
   • A copy of the court order placing the child in foster care.
   • Child’s birth certificate.
   • Proof of income (if applicable).
3. Complete the Application Form – Available at the SASSA office.
4. Submit the Documents – Hand in the completed application and supporting documents.
5. Await Approval – SASSA will review the application and inform you of the outcome.
6. Receive Your Grant – If approved, payments will be made monthly through various channels.

How to Check Your Foster Child Grant Status Online in 2025?

Checking your SASSA Foster Child Grant status online is quick and easy.

1. Check SASSA Grant Balance via Website:

• Visit the SASSA Status Check Website – Open your browser and go to https://srdcheckstatus.co.za/
• Enter Your Details:
  • Your 13-digit South African ID number.
  • The cellphone number registered during your grant application.
• Click “Check Status” – The system will process your request.
• View Your Status – Your application status will show as:
  • Approved – Grant is active, and payments are scheduled.
  • Pending – Application is still under review.
  • Declined – Application was unsuccessful (reasons will be provided).

How to Check SASSA Foster Child Grant Balance?

1. Check via USSD Code

Follow these steps to check your grant balance using the USSD code:

1. Dial *120*3210# or *120*69277# on your mobile phone.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts.
3. Enter your South African ID number and registered phone number.
4. Your current SASSA grant balance will be displayed.

2. Check via WhatsApp

1. Save the SASSA WhatsApp number: 082 046 8553.
2. Open WhatsApp and send a message saying “SASSA”.
3. Follow the menu prompts and select “Check Balance”.
4. Enter your ID number when requested.
5. You will receive a reply with your grant balance details.

3. Check via ATM

1. Insert your SASSA gold card into an ATM.
2. Enter your PIN and select “Balance Inquiry”.
3. The ATM screen will show your available grant balance.
4. You can also print a receipt for reference.

4. Check via Call Center

1. Dial the SASSA toll-free number: 0800 60 10 11.
2. Follow the prompts to select “Grant Balance Inquiry”.
3. Enter your ID number when prompted.
4. The automated system will inform you of your balance.

5. Check via SMS

1. Send a text message with your ID number to 32576.
2. You will receive an SMS reply with your current SASSA balance.

By using these methods, you can easily stay updated on your SASSA grant payments without visiting a branch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

• Submitting incomplete documents.
• Providing incorrect or outdated information.
• Missing application deadlines or failing to renew when required.
• Not updating SASSA about changes in the child’s foster status.

How to Access the Grant Payment

• Direct Bank Deposit – Funds are transferred to your bank account.
• SASSA Pay Points – Collect payments in person.
• South African Post Office (SAPO) – Withdraw funds at post office branches.

Comparison: Foster Child Grant vs. Child Support Grant

Grant Type	Foster Child Grant	Child Support Grant
Eligibility	Legal foster parent with court order	Parent/caregiver of a child under 18
Monthly Amount	R1,180 per child	R530 per child
Payment Method	Bank deposit, SAPO, pay points	Bank deposit, SAPO, pay points
Purpose	Support for children in foster care	Financial aid for low-income caregivers

What to Do if Your Application is Denied?

If your application is declined, follow these steps:

1. Review the Reason for Rejection: SASSA provides a reason for denial.
2. Gather Additional Documents: If any required documents were missing, submit them.
3. Request an Appeal: Visit your nearest SASSA office and file an appeal with supporting documents.
4. Follow Up Regularly: Monitor the status of your appeal online or via phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I apply if I am not a South African citizen?

No, only citizens, permanent residents, or refugees qualify.

Q. Can a child over 18 receive the grant?

No, the grant is only for children under 18.

Q. How often is the Foster Grant paid?

It is paid Monthly.

Q. Can a child receive multiple grants?

No, a child receiving the Foster Child Grant cannot receive another SASSA grant.