Child Grant and Food Voucher – Starting August 5, 2025, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is bringing massive relief to low-income households by increasing the Child Support Grant to R1240 per child. In addition to this, a new food voucher program has been launched to help families cope with rising food prices. This dual benefit—cash and food support—is part of a new initiative aimed at protecting vulnerable children from hunger and malnutrition during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. This article explains the new R1240 Child Support Grant, how the food voucher works, who qualifies, and how to apply before the August 5 deadline. We’ll also provide complete tables for eligibility, payment dates, and important FAQs.
What Is the Child Grant and Food Voucher Scheme?
From August 2025, SASSA will pay an enhanced Child Support Grant of R1240 per eligible child, along with an additional monthly food voucher for qualifying families. This move comes after months of public demand for stronger social protection amid economic pressure.
Key Highlights:
- New Grant Value: R1240 per child (from previous R530)
- New Benefit: R460 monthly food voucher per household
- Start Date: August 5, 2025
- Beneficiaries: Parents/guardians of children under 18 from low-income homes
- Administered by: SASSA in partnership with Department of Social Development
Who Is Eligible for the Child Grant and Food Voucher?
Not every household will automatically qualify for both the cash grant and the voucher. Specific income and documentation requirements must be met.
Eligibility Table:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Child Age | Under 18 years |
| Citizenship | Child must be a South African citizen or permanent resident |
| Parent/Guardian Income (Single) | Less than R60,000 per year |
| Parent/Guardian Income (Married) | Combined less than R120,000 per year |
| Food Voucher Eligibility | Same as grant, plus proof of food insecurity (e.g., clinic reports or school referrals) |
| Existing Child Grant Beneficiary | Automatically considered for upgrade |
| Documentation Needed | ID, child’s birth certificate, proof of income, bank statement |
How to Apply for Child Grant and Food Voucher?
SASSA urges new applicants and existing Child Grant beneficiaries to confirm or update their information before August 5 to avoid missing out on the upgraded benefits.
Application Steps:
- Visit Your Nearest SASSA Office or log in to the official SASSA website.
- Submit Documents including:
- South African ID
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of income (if any)
- Recent bank statement
- Utility bill or proof of address
- Food Voucher Screening will be done separately based on social worker reports or school-based referrals.
- SMS Confirmation will be sent upon successful verification.
- Wait for Approval (usually within 7–14 working days)
August 2025 Payment Schedule: Child Grant and Food Voucher
Payments will start rolling out on August 5, 2025, in a staggered format across different provinces to avoid crowding at ATMs and post offices.
Payment Dates Table:
| Province | Child Grant + Voucher Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Gauteng | 5 August 2025 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 6 August 2025 |
| Western Cape | 7 August 2025 |
| Eastern Cape | 8 August 2025 |
| Limpopo | 9 August 2025 |
| Free State | 12 August 2025 |
| Mpumalanga | 13 August 2025 |
| Northern Cape | 14 August 2025 |
| North West | 15 August 2025 |
Additional Benefits and Services for Child Grant Recipients
SASSA is also offering add-on benefits to those receiving the upgraded grant.
Other Support You May Qualify For
- Free School Uniforms: Based on provincial education funding
- School Feeding Schemes: Automatic enrollment for eligible children
- Free Access to Clinics: Includes nutrition screening for under-5s
- Transport Allowance: Available in rural regions under pilot scheme
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many applicants miss out due to minor documentation errors or incorrect banking details. Here are a few tips to avoid rejection.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Double-check your child’s birth certificate details
- Avoid using expired ID documents
- Ensure your phone number is active for OTP/SMS
- Use only one bank account per household for the grant
- Do not reapply if you’re already receiving Child Support Grant – just update info
FAQs of Child Grant and Food Voucher
1. Can I get the new grant and food voucher if I already receive the Child Grant?
Yes, existing recipients will automatically be reviewed for the upgraded R1240 amount and food voucher.
2. What happens if I miss the August 5 deadline?
You can still apply, but your payment may be delayed to the following month depending on availability of funds.
3. Is the food voucher redeemable for cash?
No, the voucher is only redeemable for groceries at partnered retail stores and cannot be exchanged for cash.
4. Can I apply for more than one child?
Yes, you can apply for each eligible child under your care. The grant is paid per child.
5. Where can I check my grant payment status?
Visit the official SASSA website or use the SASSA WhatsApp line to track your application and payment status.
