The SASSA Child Support Grant is one of the most vital components of South Africa’s welfare system, benefiting over 13 million children from low-income households. For 2025, there’s widespread speculation and anticipation surrounding a possible SASSA child grant increase, with officials hinting that a new amount may be announced soon.
With rising inflation, escalating food prices, and increased school-related expenses, families are hoping that the South African government will raise the monthly grant to provide more meaningful relief.
Why a Child Grant Increase Is Necessary in 2025
As of May 2025, the SASSA Child Support Grant stands at R530 per child per month. This amount is meant to support caregivers in covering a child’s basic needs such as food, clothing, schooling, and health.
However, economists and civil society groups have raised concerns that R530 is no longer sufficient given South Africa’s rising cost of living. In many cases, a child’s monthly nutritional needs alone exceed this amount.
Calls to increase the South Africa child support payout have grown stronger in 2025, with major advocacy groups pushing for a raise to at least R600 or more per month.
What Is the Expected New Amount?
As of now, the SASSA child grant increase for 2025 has not been officially confirmed, but several reliable sources have suggested a possible adjustment later this year.
Key expectations include:
-
A potential increase to R590 or R600 per month.
-
Announcement likely in the Mid-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) scheduled for later in 2025.
-
If approved, the new amount may take effect by October or November 2025.
The Department of Social Development (DSD) is reportedly reviewing affordability and inflation-linked benchmarks to justify the increase.
Who Will Qualify for the New Child Support Grant?
Whether the current grant remains at R530 or is increased to R590+, the eligibility criteria will remain the same under the SASSA 2025 guidelines:
-
Applicant must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
-
The child must be under 18 years old and living in South Africa.
-
The caregiver must not earn more than:
-
R60,000 annually if single.
-
R120,000 annually combined income if married.
-
-
The child cannot be cared for in a government institution.
-
Proper identification (ID and birth certificate) must be presented.
The grant is paid monthly into a bank account or collected via SASSA card, retail partner, or cash pay point.
How to Apply for the Child Support Grant in 2025
To apply or re-verify eligibility for the SASSA child support grant, follow these steps:
-
Visit a local SASSA office or access the SASSA online portal.
-
Bring a certified copy of your South African ID, the child’s birth certificate, and proof of income (or affidavit if unemployed).
-
Fill out and submit the Child Support Grant application form.
-
Receive confirmation through SMS or written notice.
Approval takes 30 to 90 days, and back-pay is included from the date of application.
When Will the New Grant Amount Be Announced?
While there is no fixed date yet for the announcement, the following timeline is likely:
-
Final decision could be made in the Mid-Term Budget Review (typically in the second half of the year).
-
If passed, the increased amount could begin by October or November 2025.
-
Caregivers will be notified through official SASSA announcements, the DSD website, and SMS alerts.
Beneficiaries are advised to stay updated via the SASSA social media channels and ensure their contact details are up to date.
Conclusion
The expected SASSA child grant increase for 2025 is a major concern for millions of families who rely on this vital financial aid. While the current R530 monthly payment helps, it often falls short of meeting a child’s full needs. A potential raise to R590 or R600 could make a meaningful difference for low-income households.
As South Africa navigates economic pressures, the Department of Social Development is under growing pressure to boost the South Africa child support payout. Caregivers should monitor official updates closely and be prepared to re-verify or update application details if needed.
FAQs
What is the current SASSA child grant amount in 2025?
As of May 2025, the SASSA child grant amount is R530 per child per month.
Will the SASSA child grant increase this year?
An increase is being considered by the Department of Social Development and may be announced later in 2025.
How much is the proposed new child grant?
The proposed increase could raise the grant to R590 or R600 per month, although this is not yet confirmed.
When will the new amount be paid out?
If approved, the new payment amount could begin by October or November 2025, depending on the budget announcement.
How do I apply for the SASSA child grant?
You can apply by visiting a SASSA office or using the online portal, with ID, child’s birth certificate, and income verification.