The Foster Care Grant (FCG) is a crucial form of support for caregivers who provide temporary care to children placed in foster care by the courts. The grant helps ensure that children removed from unsafe environments receive proper care, stability, and protection.
Administered by the South African Social Security Agency, the Foster Care Grant follows a specific legal and administrative process. Below is a step-by-step guide explaining how to apply, what documents are needed, and what to expect.
Step 1: Child Is Placed in Foster Care by a Court
The Foster Care Grant process begins in court, not at SASSA.
- A children’s court must officially place the child in foster care
- A court order is issued naming the foster parent or caregiver
- Without a valid court order, SASSA cannot process the grant
This step is usually facilitated by a social worker from the Department of Social Development.
Step 2: Obtain the Required Court Documents
Once the foster care placement is approved, the caregiver must receive:
- A valid foster care court order
- A social worker’s report (where applicable)
These documents confirm the legal relationship between the caregiver and the child.
Step 3: Visit the Nearest SASSA Office
The foster parent must apply in person at a SASSA office.
There is no application fee.
If the foster parent is unable to visit due to illness or disability, a trusted person may apply on their behalf with written permission.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Applicants must provide:
- Valid South African ID or refugee permit of the foster parent
- The child’s birth certificate or official identification
- Foster care court order
- Proof of marital status (if applicable)
- Banking details (optional, depending on payment method)
SASSA officials may assist if some documents are missing, provided the court order is valid.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
At the SASSA office:
- The application form is completed with the help of a SASSA official
- Fingerprints may be taken
- The caregiver receives a receipt or reference number as proof of application
Keep this receipt safe, as it is required for follow-ups.
Step 6: Application Assessment and Verification
After submission:
- SASSA verifies the court order and caregiver details
- Unlike other grants, there is no means test for the Foster Care Grant
- Processing times may vary depending on verification and workload
Step 7: Approval and Payment
If approved:
- Payments are made monthly
- Payment starts from the date of the court order, not the application date
- Back pay may be included where applicable
Payments are made through:
- SASSA Gold Card
- Bank account
- Approved payment points
Step 8: Grant Reviews and Renewals
The Foster Care Grant is not permanent and is linked to the court order:
- The grant expires when the court order expires
- Foster parents must ensure the order is renewed before expiry
- Failure to renew may result in suspension of payments
Social workers play a key role in renewal processes.
Important Things to Remember
- The grant is paid to the foster parent, not the child
- Changes in placement or circumstances must be reported
- Late court order renewals are the most common cause of payment interruptions
Final Word
The Foster Care Grant application process is designed to protect vulnerable children while supporting caregivers who take on this responsibility. Understanding each step — from court placement to SASSA approval — helps prevent delays and ensures uninterrupted support.
Foster parents are encouraged to work closely with social workers, keep court orders valid, and regularly follow up with SASSA to safeguard the child’s wellbeing and financial support.