1 (a) The projected number of beneficiaries for CSG top up are as follow:
(b) The CSG top-up grant is not a new grant as it builds on the existing Child Support Grant by increasing the amount allocated to orphans in the care of relatives and orphans in child-headed households.
The following criteria is used to identify potential CSG top up beneficiaries:
The following requirements need to be adhered to in order to qualify for a CSG top up:
(c) The CSG top up is set at the level of 50% of the Child Support Grant (CSG), and government will try to maintain it at this level. Thus when it is implemented in June 2022, the value of the CSG will be R480, the top up will be R240, bringing the total value of the CSG with the top up to R720.
(d) Due to delays with the translation of the regulations, it is expected that the regulations will only be published in June 2022. Potential beneficiaries will need to apply for the grant, and will be paid the top-up together with their CSG (as one payment).
(e) The projected expenditure for CSG top up for 2022/23 financial year is R550.66million, however will be lower due to delayed implementation.
(2) In June 2022, when the regulations are published applications will be taken manually at SASSA local offices. Later during the course of the year the online application system will be amended to accommodate the CSG Top-Up grant.
(3) The CSG top up is not a standalone grant, but an additional amount payable over and above the CSG; similar to the top up provided on the Older Persons Grant for those over 75. Once legislated it will be a permanent benefit, provided that beneficiaries meet the qualifying criteria for the CSG and those for the additional CSG top up.
(4) The CSG top up has not yet been implemented, thus it has not yet been evaluated. (a) However, we do know that the CSG has significant positive developmental impacts on the lives of children. These benefits relate to the increased income in households that receive grants; it is thus expected that this increase in the value of the CSG (through the top up) will increase those benefits. (b) Attached find a copy of the Child Support Grant impact evaluation study conducted by the department.