What the Child Support Grant is
The Child Support Grant helps primary caregivers cover basic costs of raising a child under 18. It is one of the most common SASSA grants and is paid per qualifying child. AllSASSA is an independent information portal, we are not SASSA and cannot approve applications.
Amount (from April 2026): typically R580 per child per month (verify on sassa.gov.za). Earlier in 2026 many pages quoted R530, use the official figure for your budgeting month.
Who usually qualifies
- You are the primary caregiver of a child under 18
- You and the household pass SASSA’s means test (income limits apply)
- You are a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee with a valid permit (confirm current rules)
- The child lives with you and you are responsible for their day-to-day care
Means-test thresholds change. Never rely only on a blog or WhatsApp message, confirm the current income limits at a SASSA office or on the official site before you apply.
Documents to bring
- Your South African ID (or valid permit documentation)
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of income for household members (payslips, affidavits, UIF letters as applicable)
- Proof of address if requested
- Bank details or SASSA card arrangement documents if you want payment into a bank account
Applications are free. Anyone who asks for money to “guarantee” approval is committing fraud, report them on 0800 06 01 13.
How to apply
- Gather certified or original documents (ask your local office what they accept).
- Visit a SASSA office or service point, see our office locator.
- Complete the application with a SASSA official. Keep any reference number or receipt.
- Wait for SMS or letter updates. Processing can take weeks to months.
- Track progress with our status checker and confirm on official channels.
When you get paid
Children’s grants are usually paid on the third day of SASSA’s monthly stagger (after Older Persons and Disability). Use the payment dates calendar for April 2026 to March 2027 official days. If money is late, follow what to do if your SASSA payment is late.
Appeals and reviews
If declined, request the reason and ask about appeal timelines for your case. Bring supporting documents that address the decline (for example corrected income proof). Appeals must go through SASSA, AllSASSA cannot lodge them for you. Call 0800 60 10 11 for official guidance.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Child Support Grant in 2026?
From April 2026 the Child Support Grant is commonly R580 per qualifying child per month following the Budget announcement reported with the SASSA/DSD schedule. Amounts can still change, always confirm on sassa.gov.za before you budget.
Who can apply for the Child Support Grant?
The primary caregiver of a child under 18 who passes the means test may apply. You do not have to be the biological parent. Bring the child’s birth certificate, your ID, and proof of income for the household.
Can I get Child Support Grant and another grant?
You can often receive Child Support Grants for children in your care while also receiving an Older Persons or Disability Grant for yourself, subject to means tests. Ask SASSA which combination applies to you.
When is the Child Support Grant paid?
Children’s grants are usually paid on the third day of SASSA’s monthly three-day schedule. See our payment dates page for the official 2026/2027 calendar.
What if my Child Support Grant is declined?
Ask for the reason in writing and check whether you can appeal within official timelines. Incomplete documents and means-test failures are common. Do not pay anyone who promises to “fix” a decline.