What Happens to SASSA Child Grant After Turning 18? (Other Finance Options)

As kids get older, their financial needs change, as do the support systems available to help them. In South Africa, the SASSA Child Grant offers important financial help to those caring for children under 18. This article looks at the fate of the SASSA Child Grant at this crucial age (18) and discusses funding options that can assist young adults in becoming independent while still receiving support.

get financial support after your child turns 18

When Does the SASSA Child Grant Stop?

The SASSA Child Grant stops when a child turns 18 because they are no longer seen as a dependent for this financial help. The final payment is given in the month of the child’s 18th birthday. Caregivers should get ready for this change by learning about other financial support options that can assist young adults as they start to live independently.

Are There Any Extensions for School-Going 18-Year-Olds?

  • Foster Child Grant
    If your child just turned 18 and is still in school there are ways to keep getting financial help. , The SASSA Child Grant stops at 18 but young adults who are still in high school and were in foster care before may qualify for the Foster Child Grant. This grant provides financial support until they finish high school or turn 21, whichever happens first.
  • NSFAS
    Additionally, NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) offers financial help to young adults from low-income families who want to continue their education at universities or vocational schools. Even though the SASSA Child Grant is ending, students can still apply for NSFAS funding, which can pay for tuition, housing, and study materials.

Caregivers should look into these options to make sure their children get the financial support they need for their education and growth.

Alternatives to the Child Support Grant After Age 18

When a child reaches 18 and can no longer receive the SASSA Child Support Grant, there are different financial support options available to help them adjust to adulthood. Knowing about these options is important for maintaining support.

  • Care Dependency Grant: This grant offers continuous financial support to caregivers of children with serious disabilities who need full-time care. If the young adult has a verified disability, the caregiver can receive this grant until the individual reaches 18 years old.
  • Social Relief of Distress Grant: The SRD grant provides temporary help for people in financial trouble. It gives a monthly payment of R370. This support is particularly beneficial for young adults who are unemployed or dealing with sudden money issues.
  • Disability Grant: A young adult with a disability that impacts their workability might be eligible for a Disability Grant. This financial aid is designed for those who fulfill certain medical and financial criteria, helping them cover their everyday expenses.
  • Youth Employment Initiatives: The South African government and various organizations offer programs aimed at supporting youth employment. These initiatives may include job placement services, vocational training, and mentorship programs to help young adults enter the workforce and achieve financial independence.
  • Public Works Programs: In some areas, local governments provide public works programs that offer temporary employment opportunities for young adults. These programs not only provide a source of income but also valuable work experience.

What Should Caregivers Do When a Child Turns 18?

When a child reaches 18 and can no longer receive the SASSA Child Grant, caregivers need to take some key actions for a smooth changeover. First, they must notify SASSA about the child’s age to prevent any overpayments or issues.

Caregivers should also look into other financial support options for young adults, like the Care Dependency Grant or the Social Relief of Distress Grant. It’s important to collect the required documents and apply them quickly to reduce any financial gaps.

Moreover, caregivers can help young adults understand their rights and responsibilities as they move toward independence.

Conclusion

Transitioning from the SASSA Child Grant to alternative support options is crucial for caregivers and young adults. Understanding available grants like the Care Dependency Grant and educational funding through NSFAS can help ensure continued financial assistance. Staying informed and proactive is key to navigating this important life change.

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