Every worker in South Africa is required by law to contribute to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). These funds are accessible by contributors when they are unable to work.
The UIF offers benefits to its contributors for unemployment, illness leave, maternity leave, reduced work time, adoption leave and parental leave.
Unemployed workers can apply for benefits at their nearest labour centre in person. They must be registered as work-seekers and take the necessary documents with them.
UIF claims documents for benefits must be submitted at a Labour Office. Alternatively, clients can register and claim online to access UIF benefits.
To qualify for UIF benefits, employees must have contributed to the fund and built up credits. Every month, 2% of a worker's monthly remuneration must be contributed to the UIF.
The employer is responsible for contributing 1% of the employee's remuneration while the remaining 1% will be deducted from the employee's salary.
Over time, these contributions build up credits. The more credits you have, the longer you will be able to claim benefits from the UIF.
