SASSA provides financial help to foster parents to support the care of foster children. These children are placed in foster care because of situations like being orphaned, abandoned, or mistreated. Foster parents need to take care of the child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, and a place to live. They also need to provide medical care, education, and other necessary support.
This type of SASSA garant is usually given until the child turns 18. If the child is still in high school or secondary school, the grant can continue until they turn 21. The grant will stop if the child finishes school or starts earning more than the allowed limit.
Foster Child Grant Application Procedure
Step 1: Get a Court Order
Before applying for the grant, you must have a court order that shows you are the legal foster parent. A social worker from the Department of Social Development can help you get this court order.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Once you have the court order, you can go to your nearest SASSA office to fill out the application form. SASSA also offers instructions for applying online through their website.
If you’re unable to apply because of sickness or age, you can allow someone else to apply for you. To do this, you need to complete a Power of Attorney form and have it certified. The person applying for you must also bring a doctor’s letter explaining why you cannot apply in person.
Step 3: Complete the Interview
After you submit your application, a SASSA officer will interview you or the person applying on your behalf. They will assess if you qualify for the grant. Once done, you will receive a stamped receipt, which serves as proof that you applied. The receipt includes the Application ID and the name of the officer who assisted you.
Foster Child Grant Documents Required
When applying for the foster child grant, bring the following original or certified copies:
- Your ID (13-digit barcode ID or refugee status document)
- Birth certificate of the child
- Court order that names you as the foster parent
- Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate of a spouse (if applicable)
- Any proof of income the child receives (if applicable)
- School certificate, health clinic card, or baptismal certificate (if available)
SASSA Child Foster Grant Application Rejected; What is Next?
If your application is rejected and you think there was a mistake, you can ask SASSA to review their decision. If they still deny your request after reviewing, you can file an appeal. You must submit your appeal within 90 days of your application date.
The Ministry of Social Development will review your appeal and make a final decision. If they agree with your appeal, they will overturn SASSA’s decision and you will start receiving the grant. If they reject your appeal, you will get a written response explaining the reason.
Check Your Foster Child Grant Balance
You can check your grant balance through various options:
- Dial 1203210# or 12069277# on your phone
- Send an SMS to SASSA’s WhatsApp number: 82 046 8553
- Call SASSA toll-free: 800 601 011
- Check the balance at any ATM
Review of the SASSA Foster Child Grant
Every two years, the court will need to renew the foster care order. SASSA will also do a yearly review to make sure the child still qualifies for the grant. The review also confirms that you are still caring for the child and that your situation has not changed.
SASSA will send you a written notice three months before the review. If you receive payments through a bank, you will need to submit proof of life (certificate) each year. If you’re bedridden or unable to visit, SASSA officials will come to your home to conduct the review.