What to Do If Your Company Refuses to Pay UIF

By Klnam Kurt •  Updated: 05/23/24 •  3 min read
UIF

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is a South African social security system that helps workers who lose their jobs, have their hours cut, or can’t work because they are on maternity or adoption leave. Employers must sign up with the UIF and make monthly payments based on the salaries of their workers. If a company doesn’t pay into the UIF, it could face legal action and fines, among other things. Employees whose companies don’t follow the rules may also have trouble getting UIF benefits if they lose their jobs or have other qualifying events. The UIF is a very important part of South Africa’s social welfare system because it helps workers stay financially stable and improves social welfare.

- ADVERTISEMENT -

In this article, we will look at the broader context of what happens if an employer does not pay UIF and how one can go about it.

What to do if my company refuses to pay UIF

The UIF is a key part of South Africa’s social security system and gives workers a safety net when needed.

Your employer needs to register with the UIF and make monthly payments based on your salary. If your employer doesn’t pay into the UIF, they could face legal action and fines. 

If your employer refuses to pay contributions to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) in South Africa, your first step should be to attempt to settle the matter through internal channels, such as having a conversation with your employer or the HR department. If this does not resolve the issue, you can report the non-compliance to the Department of Employment and Labour, which will conduct an investigation and take the necessary steps.

How do I report a company not paying UIF?

Reporting your employer or the company you work for as non-compliant is considered a competent action. Some employers may try to evade the contribution of UIF

- ADVERTISEMENT -
and put many of their employees in jeopardy. 

You can report your company or employer for not paying UIF, and this has its legal backing. 

You can make a complaint about a company that is not paying UIF by calling the UIF call line or going in person to a Department of Labour office with the documentation that is required to make a complaint. The Department of Labor will look into the situation and take the necessary steps to ensure compliance after completing the investigation.

What are the penalties for not paying UIF?

Failure to pay UIF can result in fines, interest, and possibly jail. Depending on the offence and duration, penalties may vary. 

The employer pays 1% of a worker’s monthly wage, and 1% is withheld for UIF.

Employers must pay UIF for domestic workers

The employer is personally liable for the UIF’s obligation if they don’t pay. For non-payment to the employer, UIF will be fined a 10% penalty on all outstanding back contributions if an employer doesn’t pay UIF.

Where can I report a company for not paying wages?

The Department of Employment and Labour in South Africa is the best place to go if you suspect a company of not paying its employees the wages they are owed. Complaints can be submitted to them by a toll-free number, via email, or at one of their physical locations. It is key that you back up your claim with as much information as you can get your hands on.

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Keep Reading

How To Cancel UIF Registration Online

How To Cancel UIF Registration Online

You can deregister UIF due to various factors. Keep on reading to learn how to cancel UIF registration online.

How Is the UIF Death Benefit Calculated?

How Is the UIF Death Benefit Calculated?

How Is the UIF Death Benefit Calculated? Read on to learn how the UIF death benefit is calculated. 

Are UIF TERS Payments Taxable?

Are UIF TERS Payments Taxable?

How to Cancel UIF

How to Cancel UIF

Your employer can cancel UIF by logging into the official uFiling website; the same platform used to register their employers and pay contributions

How to Check UIF Payout Balance

How to Check UIF Payout Balance

This article is a guide you will find very valuable. Read on to find out how you can check your UIF payout balance.

How to Apply For UIF Letter Of Good Standing

How to Apply For UIF Letter Of Good Standing

This article adds to that mandate by explaining the ins and outs of applying for a UIF letter of good standing.

How to Claim UIF Online

How to Claim UIF Online

We've assembled everything you need to know about how to claim UIF online to make the process as hassle-free as possible.

What Are the Procedures for Submitting a UIF Claim?

What Are the Procedures for Submitting a UIF Claim?

This article offers a thorough summary of the steps in filing a UIF claim, including information on the necessary paperwork

How Long Does UIF Take to Pay Out For Maternity

How Long Does UIF Take to Pay Out For Maternity

Once you are due for maternity, you can start preparing to claim UIF maternity benefits online or at any department of labour office. 

What Are the Penalties for Not Paying UIF?

What Are the Penalties for Not Paying UIF?

This article explores the penalties for not paying UIF, the compulsory nature of UIF contributions, methods to verify UIF payments and exemptions from UIF obligations.

How Much Does UIF Pay Per Month?

How Much Does UIF Pay Per Month?

How to Register Employees For UIF And PAYE

How to Register Employees For UIF And PAYE

Registering employees for UIF and PAYE is a duty every employer must adhere to. These are obligations that must not be ignored.

UIF Siyaya Status Payment in Progress Status Check

UIF Siyaya Status Payment in Progress Status Check

Check the UIF Siyaya Status Payment in progress to understand your claim status and navigate the Siyaya system effectively.

How to Register Domestic Workers For UIF

How to Register Domestic Workers For UIF

In this article, we will look at how to register domestic workers for UIF, the registration process, and the cost involved.

How to Submit a Payment Request for UIF

How to Submit a Payment Request for UIF

This article explains everything you want to know about how you can submit a payment request for UIF.