The SASSA R790 Child Support Grant is an essential social support program provided by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). Its main goal is to offer financial assistance to low- and modest-income families caring for children under the age of 18. This grant helps families cover daily needs such as food, school expenses, clothing, and basic healthcare.
Overview of the SASSA R790 Child Support Grant
The standard Child Support Grant provides a basic amount of R560 per child. In some cases, eligible caregivers may receive an additional top-up, increasing the total monthly payment to R790. This top-up is aimed at children in more vulnerable situations, such as orphaned children or those living in child-headed households.
SASSA ensures that these funds are distributed efficiently through various channels, including banks, Postbank, official SASSA payment points, and selected retail partners.
Who is Eligible for the R790 Grant?
To qualify for the SASSA R790 Child Support Grant, caregivers must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or officially recognized refugee.
- Be the primary caregiver responsible for the child’s daily care.
- Meet the means test, showing that household income falls below the set threshold.
- The child must be under 18 years old and living with the caregiver in South Africa.
- For the R280 top-up, the child should either be orphaned or part of a child-headed household, and caregivers must provide supporting documentation or affidavits.
Importance of the Child Support Grant
The SASSA R790 grant plays a vital role in reducing child poverty in South Africa. Many families struggle to cover basic necessities, and this grant provides much-needed relief. It allows caregivers to provide sufficient nutrition, clothing, school supplies, and healthcare for their children.
This financial support contributes to the long-term stability and resilience of vulnerable households, enabling caregivers to focus on raising their children without constant financial stress.
Payment Structure
The SASSA R790 Child Support Grant is paid monthly, usually during the first few working days. The payment breakdown is as follows:
| Grant Type | Base Amount | Top-Up | Total Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Child Support Grant | R560 | – | R560 |
| Child Support Grant with Top-Up | R560 | R280 | R790 |
Caregivers can receive payments via bank deposits, Postbank, SASSA payment points, or authorized retail partners. Third-party collections are allowed if the caregiver has updated SASSA with the relevant authorizations.
How to Apply for the SASSA R790 Grant
Applications for the Child Support Grant can be submitted through SASSA offices or online platforms. Caregivers must provide proof of identity, income, and relationship with the child. For children eligible for the top-up, additional documentation such as death certificates of parents or affidavits may be required.
Latest Updates on the Grant
SASSA continues to review its social assistance programs to ensure that vulnerable households receive adequate support. While there has been no official announcement of an increase in the grant amount for 2025, caregivers are advised to regularly check the status of their payments and ensure their bank or payment information is up to date.
The government is also conducting awareness campaigns to educate caregivers about the options available for children in special circumstances, ensuring that the top-up reaches those who need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the R790 Child Support Grant?
Eligible applicants include South African citizens, permanent residents, and officially recognized refugees who are the primary caregivers of children under 18.
What is the total amount I can receive per child?
Caregivers may receive up to R790 per month for each eligible child if they qualify for the top-up.
Can non-citizens receive this grant?
Yes, permanent residents and recognized refugees who meet all the criteria can apply.
