The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially announced a monthly increase to the Child Support Grant, starting August 1, 2025.
This update comes in response to growing inflation, food insecurity, and rising living costs, aiming to ease financial burdens for millions of families and ensure children’s basic needs are met.
Let’s break down the new grant rate, eligibility requirements, and important updates for all caregivers receiving this critical support.
New Monthly Rate for SASSA Child Grant – Effective August 2025
From August 2025, the monthly SASSA Child Grant will increase from R510 to R560 per child, marking a R50 boost in monthly assistance. This adjustment is one of the largest in recent years and supports more than 13 million children across South Africa.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Month | Previous Rate (R) | New Rate (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Until July 2025 | 510 | N/A |
| From August 2025 | N/A | 560 |
This R560 per child grant is paid monthly and will continue through bank transfers, SASSA cards, or mobile pay points, depending on the payment method selected.
Who Qualifies for the Updated SASSA Child Grant?
There have been no changes to the eligibility criteria. To qualify for the Child Support Grant, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
- Be the primary caregiver of the child
- Earn below the income threshold:
- R60,000 annually for single caregivers
- R120,000 annually for married couples
- The child must be under 18 years old
- The child must not reside in a state institution
Applications can be submitted at your nearest SASSA office or via the SASSA online portal, and payments will start as early as August 1, 2025 for newly approved applications.
Why This Increase Matters in 2025
The R50 monthly increase might seem small but is a significant relief for families depending on grants for daily survival. With unemployment rates still high and inflation impacting basic goods like food, electricity, and clothing, this increase strengthens the government’s support system.
Experts view the SASSA Child Grant Increase 2025 as a step forward in reducing child poverty and recommend further indexing future increases to inflation. This would help protect the value of the grant against rising costs over time.
Payment Dates – No Changes to SASSA Calendar
SASSA confirmed that the monthly payment schedule will remain unchanged, meaning:
- Grants are disbursed within the first week of every month
- Payment methods include bank deposit, SASSA card, or designated pay points
Caregivers are advised to keep their banking and contact details updated with SASSA to avoid delays in receiving funds.
The August 2025 increase to the SASSA Child Support Grant is a timely intervention to help South African families better cope with economic hardship.
The move from R510 to R560 per month will offer vital support to caregivers ensuring their children’s health, education, and wellbeing are protected.
Stay informed, check your payment details, and make sure your child grant application is current to continue receiving uninterrupted support.
FAQs
What is the new Child Grant amount starting August 2025?
The monthly Child Grant will be R560 per child, effective from August 1, 2025.
Who qualifies for the SASSA Child Grant in 2025?
Primary caregivers who are South African citizens, permanent residents, or refugees, and who meet income criteria and care for a child under 18.
Will the payment schedule change?
No, SASSA will continue making payments in the first week of each month through usual channels like bank transfers or SASSA cards.