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

The Difference Between UIF And SASSA

The Difference Between UIF And SASSA

In this article, we will look at both UIF and SASSA. We will dive into questions that confuse individuals regarding these institutions' roles.

How Much Will I Get From UIF?

How Much Will I Get From UIF?

Where to Get A UIF UI-19 Form

Where to Get A UIF UI-19 Form

In this blog post, we will shed some light on the UIF UI-19 Form, the role it plays in the documentation

How to Claim UIF When Pregnant

How to Claim UIF When Pregnant

By following these guidelines and submitting an accurate application, expectant mothers can focus on their health and well-being, knowing that financial assistance is available.

‘ID Not Found’ TERS Error Code

‘ID Not Found’ TERS Error Code

However, our focus in this blog post will highlight the TERS error code "ID Not Found", its meaning, how to resolve it

How To Submit A UIF Benefits Continuation Form

How To Submit A UIF Benefits Continuation Form

In this blog post, we will focus on UIF benefits continuations and provide precise details on what they entail

How to Pay UIF via EFT

How to Pay UIF via EFT

To pay UIF via EFT, you need to have a bank account. Your company must be part of the banking system as this creates leverage to be on the online platform. 

‘Failed Bank Verification’ UIF TERS Error Code

‘Failed Bank Verification’ UIF TERS Error Code

What Does PayMaster Close Mean at UIF?

What Does PayMaster Close Mean at UIF?

In this article, we will explore what "PayMaster close" means at UIF and provide relevant information regarding the processing time, PayMaster rules

How to Deactivate UIF

How to Deactivate UIF

 This article will look at how to deactivate UIF and other related topics on UIF deregistering.

What is Included in UIF Calculation

What is Included in UIF Calculation

This article, we will look at what is included in UIF calculation. The law requires that every employee contribute at least 2% of their salary to UIF. 

These Are the Consequences Of Not Paying UIF Contributions

These Are the Consequences Of Not Paying UIF Contributions

In general, we will look at the outcome of not being part of the UIF scheme, the punishment, and the consequences one can go through as well.

How to Upload UIF Documents Online

How to Upload UIF Documents Online

In line with this mandate, this article will help claimants with the fund with information on uploading UIF documents online.

How to Appeal a Rejected UIF Claim

How to Appeal a Rejected UIF Claim

You can take different steps to submit your appeal to the UIF rejection. Read on to learn how to appeal a rejected UIF claim

How To Register For UIF As An Employer

How To Register For UIF As An Employer

This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on registering for UIF as an employer, including information on cost, time frame etc