How to Claim For UIF Illness and Disability Benefits in South Africa Workers who become ill have the right to claim from the UIF. Workers (or their representatives) must apply and collect payments at the labour centre of their choice.
How To Claim UIF Illness Benefits
ou can apply for illness benefits at your nearest labour centre if you are an employed contributor to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and unable to work because of illness..
They must take the necessary documents with them.
Claiming Illness Benefits
If workers want to claim illness benefits they must use the following steps:
Step 1: Get the documents ready
Before workers can claim, they must get the following documents ready:
• 13-digit bar-coded ID or passport;
• form UI-2.8 for banking details;
• form UI-19 to show that they are not working;
• form UI-2.7;
• medical certificate from a doctor;
• amplifying medical report; and
• a follow-up form.
Step 2: Go to the nearest labour centre
Ill workers must go to the nearest labour centre themselves and hand in the documents. If they are too ill, they can
organise for someone else to go in their place. Staff at the labour centre will assist them with all the processes and give
them more information.
Step 3: Follow all the instructions of the staff at the labour centre
Staff at the labour centre may ask ill workers to go to the doctor again or to visit the labour centre at certain times.
Workers should do what they ask, or they may not be able to claim
We can assist you!
We ask a once-off fee of R850 and do not charge a commission on your claim. Benefits are paid directly into your bank account.
UIF Connect will provide you with the necessary documents for an illness claim, we will assist you in filling out the documents, and we will check that the documents are correct. Due to Labour’s POPIA restrictions, you will be required to submit all documents to Labour yourself, but we will provide you with all the email addresses and information you need to do this, and we will advise you on how to follow up on your claim with Labour. Once your claim has been approved we will submit the continuation needed for your payments every month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I claim UIF if I am on sick leave?
Yes, if your illness prevents you from working for more than 14 days and you meet UIF requirements.
How long do UIF illness benefits last?
Benefits continue until your UIF credits are exhausted or you recover.
Can I apply for UIF illness benefits online?
Yes, applications can be submitted through the uFiling system.
What medical proof is required?
You need a medical certificate from a registered doctor confirming your illness and inability to work.
How much will UIF pay me?
Payments usually range between 38% and 60% of your salary depending on UIF calculations.
Can foreigners claim UIF illness benefits?
Yes, foreign workers who legally contributed to UIF may qualify.
Can I claim UIF for permanent disability?
UIF mainly covers temporary inability to work. Permanent disability assistance may fall under other government programs.
What happens if my employer did not register me for UIF?
This may affect your claim. You should report the issue to the Department of Employment and Labour.
How do I check my UIF illness claim status?
You can check through the uFiling portal or contact your labour centre.
Can I submit UIF illness forms at any labour centre?
Yes, most labour centres can assist with UIF illness applications.
Do I need certified copies of documents?
Yes, certified copies are often required for identity and supporting documents.
Can UIF request additional medical reports?
Yes, follow-up medical reports may be requested during processing.
Can I receive UIF while hospitalized?
Yes, if you qualify and submit valid medical documentation.
How soon should I apply after becoming ill?
Apply as soon as possible and within six months.
Can UIF illness benefits stop suddenly?
Yes, benefits may stop if medical assessments show recovery or credits are exhausted.
Can I use someone else’s bank account for UIF payments?
Usually UIF requires payments into your personal bank account.
What if my banking details are incorrect?
Incorrect banking details can delay payments significantly.
Can self-employed people claim UIF illness benefits?
Only contributors registered and paying UIF may qualify.
Do UIF illness claims require employer approval?
Your employer must complete certain forms confirming employment information.
Can I appeal a rejected UIF illness claim?
Yes, you may request reconsideration and submit missing information.
