Employee Monthly UIF
RÂ 177,12
Employer Monthly UIF
RÂ 177,12
Total Monthly UIF
RÂ 354,24
UIF capped at R177.12/month per party
UIF contributions are 1% from the employee and 1% from the employer, totalling 2% of remuneration. The maximum monthly insurable earnings are R17,712, capping contributions at R177.12 per month each.
UIF benefits include unemployment benefits (up to 365 days), illness benefits, maternity benefits (up to 121 days), adoption benefits, and dependant benefits.
Employers must register with the UIF and submit monthly declarations and payments to SARS.
What is UIF in South Africa?
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) provides short-term financial relief to workers who become unemployed, ill, or go on maternity/adoption leave. It also provides relief to dependants of a deceased contributor.
How much is UIF?
UIF contributions are 2% of remuneration: 1% from the employee and 1% from the employer. The maximum monthly contribution is capped at R177.12 each (based on maximum insurable earnings of R17,712/month).
Who must contribute to UIF?
All employers and employees must contribute to UIF, except for employees working less than 24 hours per month, learners, public servants, and foreigners on contract.
How do I claim from UIF?
Claims are made through the Department of Employment and Labour. You need your ID, proof of banking details, and your employer must have submitted a UI-19 form. Claims can be made online via uFiling.
How the Unemployment Insurance Fund works, what you contribute, and what you can claim
What is UIF?
The Unemployment Insurance Fund provides short-term financial relief to workers who lose their jobs, are unable to work due to illness, or take maternity or adoption leave. Both employees and employers contribute to the fund. UIF is administered by the Department of Employment and Labour and is separate from SARS, although contributions are collected through the SARS payment system.
How much do I contribute to UIF?
Employees contribute 1% of their remuneration, and employers match this with another 1%, making a total of 2% per employee. The contribution is capped at a maximum remuneration of R17,712 per month, meaning the maximum monthly contribution is R177.12 per employee (R354.24 total including the employer portion). Earnings above R17,712 per month do not attract additional UIF.
Who is covered by UIF?
Almost all employees are covered, including domestic workers, part-time workers, and seasonal workers. However, UIF does not cover: employees who work less than 24 hours per month, public servants (covered by a separate scheme), foreign workers on contract, learners under learnership agreements, and self-employed people. Company directors who are also employees are covered.
How do I claim UIF benefits?
Register at your nearest Department of Employment and Labour office or online through the uFiling website. You need your ID, proof of address, and service certificate from your former employer. The employer must submit a UI-19 form confirming your employment dates and earnings. Benefits are paid into your bank account. Apply within 6 months of becoming unemployed.
How much will I receive from UIF?
UIF pays a percentage of your average salary over the last 6 months, using a sliding scale. Low-income earners receive up to 60% of their salary. Higher earners receive a lower percentage — the benefit is capped at about R6,000 to R7,000 per month. You receive 1 day of benefits for every 4 days worked, up to a maximum of 365 days (about 12 months) of benefits.
What types of UIF benefits can I claim?
There are four types: unemployment benefits (if retrenched or contract ends), illness benefits (if you cannot work due to illness for more than 14 days), maternity benefits (up to 66% of salary for 4 months), and adoption benefits (similar to maternity). Dependants of deceased contributors can also claim. Each type has different qualifying requirements and duration.
Can I claim UIF if I resigned?
Generally no. UIF unemployment benefits are for involuntary job loss — retrenchment, dismissal, or contract expiry. If you resign voluntarily, you typically cannot claim. However, if you resigned due to constructive dismissal (where your employer made working conditions intolerable), you may qualify if you can prove the circumstances at the Labour Court.
How does UIF work for domestic workers?
Domestic workers and their employers must register for UIF. The employer deducts 1% from the domestic worker's pay and adds their own 1% contribution. Payments can be made through SARS eFiling or at a bank. Many employers of domestic workers are unaware of this obligation. Failing to register and pay UIF for domestic workers can result in penalties.
SARS-Aligned: Based on 2025 SARS rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified tax practitioner.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms
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