Millions of South African households continue to rely on SASSA’s Child Support Grant to cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and school supplies for their children. As the cost of living rises and economic uncertainty deepens, many families are on edge—especially after the delay of the much-anticipated February 2025 Budget Speech, which was expected to confirm whether social grants would increase this year.
Despite these concerns, SASSA has confirmed that Child Support Grant payments for March 2025 will be made on Thursday, March 6, 2025, as scheduled. While the grant amount remains unchanged, all eyes are now on April 2025, with families hoping for a long-overdue increase.
Latest Update on Child Support Grants
The February budget announcement was expected to clarify whether grants such as the Child Support Grant and the SRD R370 Grant would see an increase. However, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana postponed the announcement due to internal policy discussions and ongoing legal challenges affecting various government aid programs.
This delay has left many families feeling uncertain, especially since the Basic Income Grant proposal and the potential VAT increase from 15% to 17% (which would have helped fund social grants) were rejected. Without this additional revenue, the government faces difficulties in increasing existing grant amounts, despite rising inflation and household needs.
Meanwhile, court rulings related to the SRD Grant have highlighted how many eligible people were unfairly excluded from previous payments. These issues have sparked broader concerns about how the grant system is being managed—and whether future increases will come at all.
March 2025 Child Support Grant Payment and Amount
Even though financial pressures and political uncertainties continue, SASSA has reassured beneficiaries that March payments will proceed normally. Families can expect to receive their funds on Thursday, March 6, 2025, using the usual payment methods such as ATMs, retailers, and Postbank services.
Here’s what you’ll receive in March 2025:
| Grant Type | Payment Amount (March 2025) |
|---|---|
| Child Support Grant | R530 per child |
| Foster Child Grant | R1,190 per child |
| Care Dependency Grant | R2,190 per child |
While there’s no official word on whether these amounts will increase in April, historical trends suggest that annual increases of 4% to 6% are typically implemented around that time of year. That would translate to an increase of around R25 to R30 per child, depending on the grant.
Why Applying for the Child Support Grant Is So Important
The Child Support Grant is one of South Africa’s most vital social protections. It’s specifically designed for low-income households, helping parents and caregivers provide for their children from infancy through to early adulthood.
By applying early—ideally as soon as the child is born—families can receive over R130,000 in total by the time the child turns 18. This assumes regular eligibility and modest yearly increases in the grant amount.
Here’s a look at the current income thresholds to qualify:
| Applicant Type | Maximum Monthly Income | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| Single Parent | R4,400 | R52,800 |
| Married Couple | R8,800 | R105,600 |
Parents or guardians should ensure they meet these requirements and apply at their nearest SASSA office or via approved online channels.
Will There Be an Increase in April 2025?
As of now, no official announcement has been made regarding a grant increase in April 2025. Historically, the government has introduced small increases around April each year, but ongoing budget constraints and legal disputes might delay or reduce any expected rise.
Although an increase of R25 to R30 per child seems likely based on previous years, several factors may affect this decision:
- Rejected VAT increase proposal has reduced available funds
- Legal issues related to the SRD R370 grant are diverting focus
- Postbank distribution delays have raised concerns over payment reliability
- Basic Income Grant discussions are ongoing and may require new funding sources
Given all this, it’s wise for families to continue budgeting around the current R530 amount and stay tuned for any official announcements from SASSA or the Treasury.
How to Receive Your March Grant Safely
SASSA advises beneficiaries to avoid long queues at physical offices and instead use secure withdrawal methods:
- ATMs with SASSA cards
- Retailers like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Boxer
- Postbank branches and services
- Monitor official updates via SASSA’s website and SMS alerts
Families are also encouraged to keep their contact details updated with SASSA to receive important updates about grant changes or payment issues.
FAQs
When will the March 2025 Child Support Grant be paid?
Payments will be made on Thursday, March 6, 2025, using the usual methods like ATM, retailers, and Postbank.
How much is the Child Support Grant in March 2025?
The amount remains R530 per child. No increases have been confirmed yet for April.
Will grants increase in April 2025?
While no official announcement has been made, previous trends suggest a possible increase of R25 to R30 per child. However, delays and funding issues may affect this.
How do I apply for the Child Support Grant?
You can apply at your nearest SASSA office or through SASSA’s online portal, if available in your region.
What documents are needed to apply?
You’ll need a valid ID, birth certificate of the child, and proof of income (like pay slips or bank statements).
What if I missed my payment date?
You can still collect your funds later at approved retailers or Postbank, as long as you have your SASSA card or payment reference.
Can I collect the grant from a retailer?
Yes, beneficiaries can collect their grants from selected retail partners like Shoprite and Boxer stores.
Will the Basic Income Grant be introduced soon?
The Basic Income Grant is still under discussion, with no confirmed implementation date due to budget constraints and funding limitations.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.