The Foster Child Grant is a monthly payment to childcare providers who have formal custody of a foster child. This grant, which is managed by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is intended to assist providers of children in need that are below the age of 18. To qualify, the providers must be citizens of South Africa, a permanent resident, or a refugee, and both the provider and child must be residing in South Africa. The child must stay with the provider for as long as the support is provided.
Grant Amount & Payment Options
The grant pays R1,250 each month for each child. SASSA provides several payment methods: beneficiaries can cash the funds at pay points, receive a deposit to a bank or Postbank account (some fees may be charged), or have the grant paid via a recognised administering institution such as a registered welfare organisation.
Application Process & Necessary Documentations
In order to apply for the Foster Child Grant, caregivers must go to the nearest South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office with the necessary supporting documents. Supporting documents consist of the valid ID of the caregiver, a South African ID or refugee permit, the birth certificate of the child, and a court order for the child’s placement into the care of the caregiver. In the absence of the standard documentation, additional documents such as affidavits, sworn statements, or church baptismal records may be provided.
Term, Revisions & Possible Suspension
The Foster Child Grant is approved as per the court order and is normally valid for a period of two years. Beneficiaries are expected to renew their reviews three months prior to the expiration of the court order. Moreover, proxies and financial institutions that disburse payments are also required to have their life-certificates reviewed annually at SASSA offices to maintain and verify their eligibility.
The grant might be entirely suspended or halted due to a variety of causes such as a change in the child’s custody, non-fulfilment of the review requirements, fraud or misrepresentation, the child being admitted to a state institution, the grant not being collected for a long time (three consecutive months), or if the beneficiary departs the country or ceases to be a refugee.
Processing Time & Appeals
Submission of the application starts the processing which may take a maximum of three months. Payments are backdated to the date when the child was placed in the caregiver’s care in case of approval. If the application is disapproved, applicants are informed in writing and the reasons for the disapproval are shared. Individuals concerned are allowed to challenge the decision and take it to the Minister of Social Development for a formal appeal within 90 days of getting the disapproval notification.
Application Cost & Support
There is no fee associated with applying for the Foster Child Grant. You may obtain all necessary forms from SASSA offices; there is no requirement to apply online. Caregivers can get help or make inquiries by either calling SASSA on their toll-free number or sending them an email.
Also Read: SASSA Grant Suspension After August 30: Who Will Lose Payments?