The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) provides short-term financial relief to workers in South Africa who have lost their jobs, are on maternity leave, or are unable to work due to illness or adoption leave. Understanding how much you will get paid, how long you can claim, and the steps to follow for your 2025 claim is essential to ensure you get the benefits you are entitled to.
What Is UIF?
The UIF is a government initiative that provides financial support to employees who have contributed to the fund while working. Both employers and employees contribute 1% of the employee’s monthly salary to the UIF. The fund is managed by the Department of Employment and Labour.
How Much Will You Get Paid From UIF in 2025?
Your UIF payout is based on your salary before you became unemployed. The UIF benefit ranges from 38% to 58% of your average monthly salary, depending on how much you earned.
- Low-income earners receive a higher percentage (up to 58%).
- Higher-income earners receive a lower percentage (minimum of 38%).
- The maximum salary threshold considered is R17,712 per month (as of 2025). If you earned more than this, your benefits will be calculated based on R17,712.
UIF Payout Formula:
- Calculate your daily salary: (Gross Monthly Salary × 12) ÷ 365
- Apply the UIF benefit percentage (between 38% and 58%).
- Multiply by the number of credit days you have available.
How Long Can You Claim UIF?
- You can claim for up to 12 months if you have enough credits.
- You earn one day of credit for every four days you work, up to a maximum of 365 days over four years.
How to Claim UIF in 2025
You can claim UIF benefits either online or in person. The online process is now faster and more convenient through the uFiling platform.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- A copy of your South African ID.
- Proof of banking details (stamped bank statement or letter from bank).
- UI-19 form from your employer.
- Proof of termination of employment (retrenchment letter, contract expiry notice, etc.).
Step 2: Register on the uFiling Website
- Go to uFiling.
- Click ‘Activate My Account’.
- Fill in your personal and contact details.
- Confirm your email and log in.
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
- Select ‘Benefits’ and choose the type of claim (Unemployment, Illness, Maternity, etc.).
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit your application.
Step 4: Track Your UIF Status
- Online: Log in to uFiling and check your application status.
- Via USSD: Dial 134843# and follow the prompts.
- Via Phone: Call the UIF Call Centre at 0800 030 007.
How to Check Your UIF Balance
- Log in to uFiling and go to the ‘My Account’ section.
- Use the USSD service by dialling 134843#.
UIF Payout Timelines in 2025
- The first payment is typically made within 4 to 8 weeks after a successful application.
- Subsequent payments are made monthly until your benefits run out.
Common Reasons UIF Claims Are Delayed
- Missing or incorrect documents.
- Employer not submitting UI-19 form.
- Bank details not matching your ID.
- Incorrect personal information.
Tips to Ensure a Smooth UIF Claim in 2025
- Register on uFiling before you need to claim.
- Ensure your employer updates your UI-19 details regularly.
- Double-check your bank account information.
- Submit all documents in PDF or JPEG format for easy processing.
Final Thoughts
UIF benefits are an essential safety net for South African workers. By understanding how much you will get paid and following the correct claim process, you can avoid delays and get the financial support you need in 2025.
