If you have resigned from your job and are now unemployed, you may be eligible to claim unemployment insurance funds (UIF) in South Africa. UIF provides financial support to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to claim UIF when resigned.
What is UIF?
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is a government-run fund that provides short-term financial relief to employees who have lost their jobs or who have been unable to work due to illness, maternity leave or adoption leave. It also provides relief to the dependants of deceased contributors.
When can you claim UIF after resigning?
If you have resigned from your job, you can claim UIF if the following conditions are met:
- You were employed in the formal sector and your employer was deducting UIF contributions from your salary.
- You have been contributing to the UIF for at least 13 months continuously before your resignation.
- You have not been employed again for more than four weeks since your resignation.
- You are actively seeking employment.
How to claim UIF after resigning
Claiming UIF after resigning in South Africa can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be smooth and hassle-free. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather all necessary documentation
Before beginning your application, you will need to gather all the required documents such as:
- Your valid South African ID or passport
- Your last six consecutive pay slips from your previous employer
- Your UI-19 form (Employment Service Record) that your previous employer completed and gave to you upon your resignation.
- Your banking details such as bank name, account number, and branch code
Step 2: Register as a work seeker
Before you can apply for UIF, you need to register as a work seeker with the Department of Employment and Labour at the nearest labour centre or online via the department's e-Services portal. You will need to provide your identification documents, current contact details, qualifications, work experience and skills. Once registered, you will receive an official work seeker certificate, which you will have to provide as evidence when claiming UIF.
Step 3: Complete the necessary forms
Once you have all your documentation in order and have registered as a work seeker, you need to complete the necessary forms for claiming UIF. You can download the necessary forms from the Department of Employment and Labour website, or you can collect them from your nearest labour centre.
The forms you will need to complete are the following:
- UI-2.8 - Application for unemployment benefits
- UI-19 - Employers Declaration of Employment
- UI-4 - Declaration of continued unemployment
- UI-2.7 - Application for illness benefits
You will need to complete these forms in full and attach all the necessary supporting documents before submitting them to the Department of Employment and Labour. You can submit your application in person at the labour centre or online via the department's e-Services portal.
Step 4: Wait for application outcome
After submitting your UIF application, you will need to wait for the Department of Employment and Labour to process your application. The processing time can take up to 35 working days. During this time, the department will verify your documentation and eligibility for UIF.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive an outcome letter in the post, stating whether your application has been successful or not. If successful, you will receive a monthly payment, which is a percentage of your average salary, for a maximum of 12 months or until you find employment. If your application is unsuccessful, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Conclusion
Claiming UIF after resigning can be a complicated process; however, with the right documentation, patience and guidance, you can successfully receive financial assistance while you are looking for a new job. Remember to register as a work seeker, gather all required documents, and complete your application in full before submitting it to the Department of Employment and Labour.
