Worker’s Guide to UIF

Workers must contribute 1% of their pay to the UIF. To claim UIF benefits, workers must complete certain forms and hand them in at their nearest labour centre.

Application

The Unemployment Insurance Act and Unmployment Insurance Contributions Act apply to all employers and workers, but not to -

• workers working less than 24 hours a month for an employer;
• learners;
• public servants;
• foreigners working on contract;
• workers who get a monthly State (old age) pension; or
• workers who only earn commission.

Domestic employers and their workers are included under the Act since 1 April 2003. Provides security to workers when they become unemployed.

Paying UIF

Workers must make sure that their employers deduct 1% of their pay and pay it to the UIF. Based on Legislation in Section 5, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Claiming Unemployment Benefits

When they claim Unemployment Benefits workers must:

• complete the correct forms and hand it in at a labour centre (See How to Claim UIF Unemployment Benefits);
• register as work-seekers (See How to Register as Work-seeker);
• be available to start work;
• report to a labour centre when asked to; and
• undergo training and counseling when asked to.

Based on Legislation in Section 16, Section 17, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Claiming Illness Benefits

When they claim Illness Benefits workers must:

• complete the correct forms and hand it in at a labour centre (See How to Claim UIF Illness Benefits);
• go for medical treatment if asked to.

Based on Legislation in Section 22, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Claiming Maternity Benefits

When they claim Maternity Benefits workers must complete the correct forms and hand it in at a labour centre (See How to Claim UIF Maternity Benefits). Based on Legislation in Section 25, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Claiming Adoption Benefits

When they claim Maternity Benefits workers must complete the correct forms and hand it in at a labour centre (See How to Claim UIF Adoption Benefits). Based on Legislation in Section 27, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Claiming Dependant’s Benefits

When they claim Maternity Benefits workers’ dependants must complete the correct forms and hand it in at a labour centre. Based on Legislation in Section 30, of the Unemployment Insurance Act

Information provided by The Department of Labour. For more iinformation visit www.labour.gov.za