The millions of South African families, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has formally announced an increase in the Child Support Grant from May 2025. The rise is part of a wider government move to the increasing cost of living and the welfare of at risk children nation wide.
If you are a recipient or planning to apply for the SASSA Child Grant, this news is for you. In this article, we break down all you need to know from the new grant value, qualification criteria, and payment dates to how to check your payment status.
What is SASSA Child Support Grant?
The grant scheme is called SASSA Monthly Cash Grant of Child Support, aimed at targeting primary caregivers of all children below 18 years of age.

This program is to check that children in very poor families can get their basic needs met, including food, clothes, education, and health care. SASSA to manage the grant, the government department under the department of Social Development.
What Is the Amount of the New Grant?
Effective May 2025, the SASSA Child Grant will now amount to R530 per child per month after an increase of R20 from R510. Even though the increments are not too high, they will go a long way in helping most families cope with rising costs owing to inflation and other economic factors.
SASSA Payment Date for May 2025
For May 2025, SASSA has scheduled the Child Support Grant payment to begin from
Monday, May 6, 2025
Payments are generally phased to regulate demand and prevent overcrowding at points of collection. In case you’re getting the grant through bank deposit, your money might be reflected within 1-2 working days subsequent to the planned date.
Who Qualifies for the SASSA Child Grant?
Caregivers have to meet the below-stated requirements to qualify for the Child Grant in 2025:
- Must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee.
- The child should be below the age of 18 years.
- The applicant should be the sole caregiver of the child.
- The income of the caregiver and spouse together should not exceed:
- R60,000 a year (R5,000 a month) for single caregivers.
- R120,000 a year (R10,000 a month) for married individuals.
The child should not be in the custody of a state institution and must reside with the applicant.
Documents Required for Application
To qualify to apply for the SASSA Child Support Grant, make sure you have the following:
- Your South African ID or refugee permit.
- The child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of income, i.e., slips or bank statements.
- Proof of residence (optional but highly recommended).
- Affidavit or proof of primary caregiving responsibility, especially in the case of grandparents, siblings, or guardians.
How to Apply for the SASSA Child Grant
There are two main ways to apply:

- Visit a SASSA Office: Visit your local SASSA office and ask for the application form. A SASSA official will assist you in filling out and submitting the form.
- Apply Online: Register and submit an online application using the SASSA Services Portal: ???? https://services.sassa.gov.za
Applications are free. Once submitted, you will get a receipt or reference number save it for tracking.
How to Check Your Payment Status
There are several methods to confirm whether your payment has been processed:
- SASSA WhatsApp Line: Send “SASSA” to 082 046 8553. and use the prompts.
- SASSA Status Portal: Go to the SASSA Status Checker and submit your ID and phone number.
- Contact the SASSA Helpline: Call 0800 60 10 11 (free) to have an advisor speak with you.
- Bank SMS Notification: If you have your grant deposited into a bank, look in your bank’s mobile app or wait for SMS notifications on deposit transactions.
Where Can You Pick Up the Child Grant?
SASSA cash can be picked up from:
- Direct bank deposit (conveniently recommended)
- SASSA/Postbank Gold Card (can be used at ATMs and shops)
- Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, Boxer, and Spar retail stores
- Post offices
Why This Increase Matters
The 2025 increase is part of the government’s long-term plan to lower child poverty and make sure that no child falls behind as a result of financial hardship. With the rising prices of food and necessities, even small increases can mean a lot to a child’s well-being.
In 2024 alone, the Child Grant had reached more than 13 million children, and the trend is envisioned to persist in 2025, with increased coverage and enhanced access through digital channels.
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Conclusion
The May 2025 SASSA Child Grant raise is a welcome relief to families struggling economically. Although the R20 raise won’t address all issues, it’s a move in the right direction. By learning how to apply, pay status, and get paid safely, you can help your child access the assistance they need.
Ensure that you’ve made changes to your contact and banking details with SASSA to prevent delays. For more assistance, you can always drop by your closest SASSA office or access the digital options available.
FAQs:-
What is the SASSA Child Grant increase for May 2025?
The SASSA Child Grant has been increased by R20 in May 2025, bringing the monthly payment to R530 per child.
When will the increased child grant be paid in May 2025?
The payment is scheduled for the first week of May 2025, usually starting on the 6th.
What documents are required to apply for the child grant?
You’ll need your ID, the child’s birth certificate, proof of income (if any), and a completed application form.