Since the beginning of the SA’s lockdown, many employers and employees have experienced challenges registering and claiming their Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) funds. Labour has encouraged online registration, as the state department faces the effects of the novel coronavirus.

Sometimes, it can become very challenging to understand how online UIF submission and compliance work. The information is usually spread out all over of the web, so average citizens cannot necessarily utilize the Ufiling e-portal created by the government to simplify the registration process. The first place to start is to search for your employer on the website.

Once you have identified your employer, ensure you have all your important information and legal documents. Many employers are not familiar with the application process which means they will have to calculate and pay the application fee along with the penalties in the form of cash contributions made annually towards the fund.

At least one per cent (1%) of their employees’ total earnings are deducted from their salaries and contributed to the company UIF account. Therefore it is essential that employers big and small are in full compliance with the Department of Labour and UIF. So how does one begin to understand how to apply for UIF during these times of the pandemic? Below is a basic introductory guide to the UIF application that will hopefully be of help to you.

Here are some of the most common questions asked by employers and employees:

How do I activate my UIF?

To register, visit www.uFiling.co.za or www.ufiling.gov.za. From this home page, click the ‘Activate my uFiling account’ button and follow the on-screen instructions. Information needed: Valid UIF registration number

How do I add employees to uFiling?

Click on “Add New” to capture more. Capture or update demographics, including physical and postal addresses for the employee and click on “Save” to add the employee details for the employer. A confirmation message will display when the employee record and declaration is saved.

Can I submit my UIF claim online?

As an online registered Employee, you will be able to securely submit your Application for Benefits (for Unemployment, Reduced Time Benefits, Maternity, Illness and Adoption), to submit Continuation of Benefits and Notice of Appeal.

Can I back pay UIF?

Making your payments to the Department of Labour:

All UIF payments MUST be made to the Department of Labour. Your Domestic employee’s back payments can be made to the UIF Department either in advance which would save time or you can make payments on a monthly basis.

How do I check my UIF claim status?

You can call the UC Service Center at 888-313-7284. The Service Center only take calls on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. The least busy time to call is towards the end of the day.

Lastly, take your time reading about the process and familiarize yourself with the site first. You can start with this guideline on how to apply for UIF.

To apply online use this link: Unemployment Insurance Fund (labour.gov.za)