South African parents and caregivers have received welcome news this month as the government confirmed an increase in the Child Support Grant. Starting from September 2025, families will now receive R600 per child each month. The adjustment comes at a crucial time when the rising cost of food, clothing, and school essentials has been putting additional strain on households.
This increase is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the country’s social protection system. The Child Support Grant remains one of South Africa’s most widely accessed social benefits, reaching millions of children in need and supporting families who often depend on it for daily survival.
Why the Increase Matters
For many low-income households, the Child Support Grant is more than just a payment; it is a lifeline that helps provide the basics for children. Over the past year, South African families have had to cope with higher prices for food, electricity, and transport. Many parents have been struggling to stretch their monthly income to meet all household needs.
By raising the grant to R600 per child, the government is addressing the urgent reality of inflation and the increased cost of raising children. While the new amount may still fall short of covering all expenses, it provides much-needed relief and allows parents to buy essentials like groceries, school uniforms, and stationery.
Who Qualifies for the Child Support Grant
The Child Support Grant is aimed at children living in households with limited financial resources. To ensure that the assistance goes to families who need it most, SASSA has outlined specific eligibility requirements. These include:
- The applicant must be the child’s primary caregiver, whether a parent, grandparent, or guardian.
- Both the caregiver and the child must be South African citizens, permanent residents, or recognised refugees.
- The child must be under the age of 18 years.
- The caregiver must meet the means test, which assesses household income to determine eligibility.
Importantly, caregivers cannot receive the grant for more than six non-biological children at a time, ensuring fairness in distribution.
How the Means Test Works
The means test is a financial assessment used by SASSA to confirm whether families qualify for the Child Support Grant. Single caregivers must earn below a specific income threshold, while married applicants are assessed based on combined household income.
If a caregiver’s income exceeds the threshold, they may not be eligible for the grant. The test helps ensure that resources are directed towards households most in need of support, particularly those with little or no regular income.
Application Process for Parents and Guardians
Applying for the Child Support Grant is a simple process, but it requires certain documents. Parents and guardians can visit their nearest SASSA office to begin the application. The key documents needed include:
- A valid South African identity document or refugee permit.
- The child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of residence.
- Proof of income, such as payslips or an affidavit if unemployed.
Once an application is submitted, SASSA officials verify the details and notify applicants of approval or rejection. Approved families begin receiving the grant from the following payment cycle.
Payment of the R600 Grant
Starting in September, payments of R600 per child will be distributed through the usual channels. Families can receive the money directly into their bank account, through a SASSA card, or at designated pay points.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to provide accurate banking details to avoid delays. The system is designed to ensure that funds are delivered securely and reliably each month.
The Impact on Families
The increase to R600 per child has been warmly welcomed by many households. Parents say that while the grant is not enough to cover all the costs of raising a child, it significantly eases financial pressure. In many families, the grant goes towards food, transport to school, or essential medical needs.
For children, the grant often translates to improved nutrition, better school attendance, and a healthier environment at home. When parents are able to buy food and school supplies, children benefit directly from improved stability and opportunities.
Broader Social and Economic Benefits
Beyond the immediate relief to families, the Child Support Grant plays a vital role in South Africa’s social and economic development. By helping families provide for their children, the grant reduces child poverty and inequality.
The extra R600 per child also circulates back into local communities, as families spend their grants at neighbourhood shops and businesses. This creates a ripple effect, boosting small-scale economies and helping sustain local livelihoods.
Concerns and Ongoing Challenges
While the increase is a step in the right direction, advocacy groups continue to raise concerns about whether the amount is enough. Research shows that the cost of raising a child far exceeds the grant, especially in urban areas where food and transport expenses are higher.
Civil society organisations argue that further increases will be necessary in the future to keep up with inflation and ensure that children’s basic rights are fully protected. They also stress the importance of linking the grant to services such as education and healthcare to give children the best possible chance to thrive.
The Future of Child Grants in South Africa
The government has signalled that social protection will remain a priority in the coming years. Regular reviews of grant amounts are expected, with adjustments made to respond to economic conditions. The aim is to build a system that not only reduces poverty but also promotes better long-term outcomes for children.
For now, the September 2025 increase represents a clear acknowledgment of the financial struggles families face and the state’s responsibility to support them.
Conclusion
The confirmation of the Child Support Grant increase to R600 per child from September 2025 is a significant moment for millions of South African families. It reflects the government’s recognition of the growing pressures parents face and its commitment to easing the burden of child-rearing.
Although the grant alone cannot solve every challenge, it remains a vital safety net that helps families provide the basics for their children. By strengthening this support, South Africa takes another step towards building a fairer and more caring society where no child is left behind.