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Foster Child Grant 2026: Amount, Requirements and How to Apply

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The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has released the official April 2026 payment schedule, along with updates on grant increases. At the same time, many new applicants are looking to understand how the Foster Child Grant works.

This guide covers both the April 2026 payment dates and a simple explanation of the Foster Child Grant for new applicants.

SASSA Payment Dates for April 2026

SASSA pays grants in phases to manage queues and ensure smooth distribution.

Older Persons Grant

Thursday, 2 April 2026

Disability Grant

Friday, 3 April 2026

Children’s Grants (Including Foster Child Grant)

Monday, 6 April 2026

This includes:

  • Child Support Grant
  • Foster Child Grant
  • Care Dependency Grant
  • War Veterans Grant
  • Grant-in-Aid

SRD R370 Grant Payment Dates

The SRD grant does not have fixed dates.

  • Payments are made later in April 2026
  • Each person receives a different payment date
  • You must check your status online to see your exact payment day

New SASSA Grant Amounts from April 2026

According to the National Treasury, most social grants increased in April 2026.

Updated amounts:

  • Old Age Grant: R2,400
  • Disability Grant: R2,400
  • War Veterans Grant: R2,420
  • Foster Child Grant: R1,295
  • Care Dependency Grant: R2,400
  • Child Support Grant: R580
  • Grant-in-Aid: R580

SRD Grant

  • Remains R370 (no increase)

Foster Child Grant Explained (For New Applicants)

The Foster Child Grant is financial support for children placed in the care of foster parents by a court.

Who Qualifies for the Foster Child Grant?

To qualify:

  • The child must be legally placed in your care by a court order
  • The child must be under 18 years old
  • You must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or refugee
  • Both you and the child must live in South Africa

Do You Need to Pass a Means Test?

No.

Unlike other grants, the Foster Child Grant:

  • Does NOT require a means test
  • Your income does not affect eligibility

Foster Child Grant Amount (2026)

As of April 2026:

  • You will receive R1,295 per child per month

Documents Required

When applying, you need:

  • Your ID document
  • The child’s birth certificate
  • Court order placing the child in your care
  • Proof of residence

How to Apply for the Foster Child Grant

Step-by-Step:

  1. Obtain a court order through a social worker
  2. Visit your nearest SASSA office
  3. Complete the application form
  4. Submit required documents
  5. Receive proof of application

Applications are free.

How Long Does It Take?

  • Processing usually takes 30 to 90 days
  • Payments are backdated to the application date if approved

Important Things to Know

  • The grant ends when the court order expires
  • It also stops when the child turns 18
  • You must renew the court order to continue receiving payments

Payment Tips for April 2026

  • Do not rush on the first payment day
  • Your money will remain in your account
  • Use a bank account or SASSA card for easier access

Final Thoughts

April 2026 brings both confirmed SASSA payment dates and increased grant amounts, including the Foster Child Grant.

If you are a new applicant, understanding the process and requirements can help you apply successfully and receive support for the child in your care.