SASSA Child Grant Increase 2025: What to Expect for South African Families

SASSA Child Grant Increase 2025: Current Status and What Parents Should Know

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Child Support Grant remains a vital source of income for millions of families across the country. As of October 2025, parents and caregivers are keenly interested in whether they can expect a further increase in the SASSA Child Grant to help offset rising living costs. However, the latest updates indicate that the SASSA Child Grant will not see an increase in October 2025 payouts, leaving many recipients disappointed and concerned about affordability amidst economic pressures.^[1]

2025 SASSA Child Grant: The Facts

Currently, the SASSA Child Support Grant pays R560 per child per month to over 13 million beneficiaries nationwide. This figure makes it the largest and most expensive social welfare grant in South Africa, exceeding even the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.^[1][2] The last confirmed increase occurred earlier in the year, but no additional adjustment is scheduled for October 2025.

According to government statements and media reports, the October 2025 payment of R560 will be the standard, with no further hike.^[1][2] This is in contrast to other grant categories such as the Older Persons, Disability, and Child Care Dependency grants, which received a second increase in 2025.

Summary Table: SASSA Children’s Grants (October–November 2025)

Note: The amounts above reflect the latest confirmed figures for October and November 2025, with no increase for the Child Support Grant at this time.^[2]

Why Is There No SASSA Child Grant Increase in October 2025?

Earlier in 2025, South Africa’s National Treasury had indicated plans to increase core social grants above inflation for three consecutive years, aiming to help families cope with the negative effects of higher VAT and general cost-of-living increases.^[1] However, these ambitions were scaled back after the Government of National Unity (GNU) challenged the VAT hike. The anticipated extra revenue did not materialize, forcing the Treasury to adjust the social welfare budget downward for future years.

While the overall 2025/26 social grants budget rose by R1.6 billion to R284 billion, projections show a decrease to R271 billion in 2026/27 and further to R259 billion in 2027/28.^[1] As a result, SASSA had to limit increases, focusing on other core grants and tightening eligibility and review processes for all recipients.

Recent Increases: What Happened Earlier in 2025?

Although there is no increase scheduled for October 2025, there was a grant adjustment earlier in the year. In the second quarter of 2025, Treasury approved a R10 monthly increase for most grants, including the Child Support Grant, which rose from R520 to R530.^[3] Additionally, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a further rise to R560 later in the year, bringing the total increase for 2025 to R40 more per child per month compared to 2024.^[4]

This incremental approach was intended to help families handle the 4.4% Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation recorded in August. However, advocacy groups and social policy experts argue that these increases are still insufficient to keep pace with escalating food, electricity, and transport costs.^[3]

Eligibility Requirements for the SASSA Child Support Grant (2025)

To qualify for the SASSA Child Support Grant, applicants must meet updated means-test criteria:

• Only one parent may draw a Child Support Grant per child.
• Combined annual income threshold for married applicants: up to R134,300.
• Annual income threshold for single applicants: up to R67,200.^[1]
• Applicants must provide valid identification for themselves, their spouse (if married), and the child.
• Proof of marital status and income (including three-month official bank statements).
• Recent proof of address (utility statement, not older than three months).

These thresholds have increased in 2025, allowing slightly more families to qualify for support.^[1]

Payment Dates for SASSA Childcare Grants (October–November 2025)

For October 2025, SASSA will disburse all children’s grants, including Child Support and Foster Care, on Monday, 6 October 2025.^[1][3] In November, the payment date is scheduled for Thursday, 6 November 2025.^[2] SASSA’s staggered payment policy is designed to minimize queues and prioritize vulnerable groups, such as older persons and those with disabilities.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guidance

Parents or caregivers seeking to apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant in 2025 must follow these steps:

• Register your child’s birth with the Department of Home Affairs (if not already done).
• Prepare required documents: IDs for parent(s) and child, marriage/birth/death certificates (if applicable), proof of income, three-month bank statement, and proof of address.
• Visit your nearest SASSA office or designated service point with all documents.
• Complete the application form provided by SASSA staff.
• Await processing and approval. Successful applicants will receive monthly payments into their selected bank account or SASSA card.

SASSA encourages new mothers and caregivers of newborns to apply as soon as possible to ensure timely support.^[2]

Other Child-Related Grants: Foster Child and Care Dependency

Alongside the Child Support Grant, SASSA offers two other grants for specific circumstances:

• Foster Child Grant (R1 250/month): Available to court-appointed foster parents under the Child Care Act.
• Care Dependency Grant (R2 320/month): For caregivers of children under 18 with permanent disabilities, as certified by a government-appointed doctor.^[2]

Eligibility for these grants is subject to more stringent legal and medical requirements than the standard Child Support Grant.

The Socio-Economic Impact of the SASSA Child Grant

The SASSA Child Support Grant is not just a monthly cash transfer; it is a cornerstone of South Africa’s social safety net. According to social development experts, these grants help keep children in school, support nutritional needs, and reduce extreme poverty.^[3] Approximately 45% of the population depends on some form of SASSA grant as a primary income source.^[1]

Despite criticisms that the increases do not match inflation or the rapid rise in living costs, the Child Support Grant continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of children. Over a child’s lifetime (from birth to 18), the total SASSA child grant received can amount to around R150,000 per child, representing a significant investment in human capital and future potential.^[2]

What to Expect for 2026 and Beyond

Looking ahead, the outlook for further SASSA Child Grant increases remains uncertain. With the overall social grants budget set to decrease in 2026 and 2027, and tighter eligibility reviews on the horizon, recipients should not expect significant hikes in the near term.^[1] Advocacy organizations continue to lobby for increases of 10–15% to keep pace with the real cost of living, but government fiscal constraints make this unlikely in the immediate future.^[3]

Beneficiaries are advised to budget carefully, monitor official SASSA channels for updates, and make use of financial literacy resources offered by the agency to maximize the value of their grants.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): SASSA Child Grant 2025

• Will the SASSA Child Grant increase again in 2025?
  No further increase is scheduled for 2025 after the earlier adjustment to R560 per month.
• How do I check my eligibility?
  Ensure your household income is below the means-test threshold and provide all required documentation at application.
• What should I do if my application is rejected?
  You may appeal the decision through SASSA’s official channels or seek assistance via their toll-free hotline: 0800 60 10 11.^[2]

Contact Information and Support

For assistance with SASSA Child Support Grant applications or queries:

• SASSA Toll-Free Call: 0800 60 10 11
• SASSA Head Office: 012 400 2322
• Email: grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za

Keep your contact and bank details up to date with SASSA to avoid payment delays.

Conclusion: SASSA Child Grant in 2025—Stability, But No Increase

As South Africa continues to navigate economic challenges, the SASSA Child Support Grant remains a lifeline for millions of families. While there will be no further increase in 2025, the grant plays a central role in supporting children’s well-being and combating poverty. Parents are encouraged to stay informed, comply with eligibility requirements, and seek assistance from SASSA if needed to ensure continued support for their children.