If you’re a parent or caregiver in South Africa, you already know this truth: raising a child has become painfully expensive. A trip to the grocery store feels like a budget-breaking event. School shoes don’t come cheap. And when a child falls sick, even basic healthcare can shake a household’s finances.
That’s why the SASSA Child Support Grant increase to R790 per month from April 2025 is more than just a number. For over 13 million children, this change is a monthly lifeline. It means fuller plates, better school attendance, and one less financial worry for families already stretched thin.
What Is the SASSA Child Support Grant 2025?
The SASSA Child Support Grant 2025 is a monthly financial aid programme for low-income caregivers raising children under 18. From April 2025, the total support per child has been increased to R790 per month.
This new amount combines:
- The base Child Support Grant
- A top-up for vulnerable children
SASSA designed this increase to protect children from the worst effects of:
- Rising food prices
- Unemployment
- Healthcare and schooling costs
In townships and rural communities, this grant often isn’t “extra money.” It’s survival money.
Why the R790 Increase Matters More Than Ever
Let’s be honest—R790 doesn’t make anyone rich. But for families living on tight budgets, it can mean the difference between eating properly and going to bed hungry.
Here’s what this increase helps with in real life:
- More nutritious food on the table
- School uniforms and stationery
- Transport costs to clinics and schools
- Basic healthcare needs
For single parents, especially mothers juggling work and childcare, this extra support reduces daily stress. It gives breathing room. And when caregivers feel more stable, children feel it too—in their confidence, their health, and their school performance.
This is why the SASSA Child Support Grant 2025 is not just welfare. It’s an investment in the country’s future.
Who Qualifies for the Full R790 Child Support Grant?
Now to the most important question—who actually gets the R790?
You qualify if:
- You are a South African citizen, permanent resident, or registered refugee
- You are the primary caregiver of a child under 18
- Your monthly household income is below:
- R5,200 for single caregivers
- R10,400 for married couples
- Both you and the child live in South Africa
- You can provide:
- Valid ID
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of residence
There’s no limit on your own biological or adopted children, but for children not related to you, the cap is usually six.
The top-up portion is automatically added for:
- Children with disabilities
- Foster care cases
- Other high-risk welfare situations
This ensures the most vulnerable children receive the strongest protection.
How the R790 Payment Is Structured
The R790 is not just one flat amount thrown together. It’s carefully split to ensure targeted support.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Base Grant: R560
- Top-Up: R230
- Total Monthly Support: R790 per child
The base covers everyday needs like food and school basics. The top-up steps in where extra care, medical support, or special circumstances apply.
This structure helps SASSA direct funds where they are needed most.
When and How Will You Be Paid?
Payments are made monthly, usually starting from the 4th of each month, in line with other SASSA grants.
You can receive your money through:
- Direct bank deposit
- SASSA card
- Approved retail payment partners
To avoid long queues and delays, SASSA strongly encourages caregivers to use bank deposits and keep their details updated on the SASSA portal or app.
How to Apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant 2025
If you are applying for the first time, here’s what to expect:
- Apply online through SASSA’s digital platforms
- Or visit an eKasiNow service centre
- Bring:
- Your ID
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of income and residence
Processing can take up to 90 days, so it’s best to apply as early as possible.
Once registered, you can track your application by dialing:
1347737# on your phone for updates.
How to Stretch Your R790 Further Each Month
Let’s be practical. Since every rand matters, here are simple ways families use the grant more effectively:
- Prioritise food and school items first
- Use community feeding schemes where available
- Buy uniforms during off-season sales
- Keep aside even R20–R50 for emergencies if possible
- Review eligibility every year to avoid sudden cut-offs
The goal isn’t just survival—it’s stability.
The Bigger Impact of the R790 Child Support Grant
Over time, this grant does more than cover daily costs. It helps:
- Reduce child malnutrition
- Improve school attendance
- Lower dropout rates
- Support early childhood development
In the long run, that means stronger communities and fewer families trapped in generational poverty.
The SASSA Child Support Grant 2025 shows that when children are protected, society becomes stronger from the ground up.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new R790 SASSA Child Support Grant start?
The new R790 monthly payment officially starts in April 2025. From that month onward, all qualifying beneficiaries will receive the increased amount, including the base grant and the top-up for vulnerable children.
Can I get the R790 grant if I am unemployed?
Yes. In fact, the grant is specifically designed for low-income and unemployed caregivers. As long as your household income falls below the required threshold and you meet all other conditions, you can qualify.
How long does it take for a new application to be approved?
Once you submit a complete application with all required documents, processing can take up to 90 days. If approved, back payments are usually made from the date of application.
