Yes, you can claim UIF for four months if you resign while pregnant. Let’s delve into the details to understand the process and what to expect.
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Eligibility for UIF Maternity Benefits
When you resign while pregnant, you are eligible for four months of maternity benefits. This is an exception to the usual UIF rules, where resignation does not typically qualify for benefits.
Submitting Your Application
Submit your application once you no longer receive your full salary. If you apply before this, your application will be rejected. Ensure your employer stops paying you before submission.
Claim Period and Benefits
Duration of the Claim
You can only claim for the period you are on maternity leave. For instance, if you take two months off, you can claim for two months, even if you have enough credits for four months.
When on six months of maternity leave, with two months fully paid by your employer, you can claim for the remaining four months. Remember, claims are valid only during unpaid leave.
Expected Payments
Expect to receive between 38% and 58% of your gross salary per month, based on the last four years’ earnings. The maximum salary used for calculation is R17,712, effective from June 1, 2021.
Additional Scenarios
Hourly Pay
If paid by the hour, calculate your last six months’ salary and divide by six. Use this amount and your UIF contributions for your claim.
Job Changes
Changed jobs in the last four years? Previous employers must complete a UI.19 form to ensure you receive maximum credits for your maternity UIF benefit.
Retrenchment or Contract End
Even if retrenched or your contract ends, you can claim maternity benefits first, followed by unemployment benefits. Apply for maternity benefits regardless of how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Application Process
On Maternity Leave Already
Already on maternity leave? Apply within six months of your baby’s birth. The Department of Labour will back pay benefits from the start of your leave to your application date.
Payment Method
Payments are deposited directly into your personal bank account. Ensure it’s your account, not a joint one.
First Payment Timeline
Your first payment is typically small, covering days from the start of leave to the claim date. A larger payment follows within a week. Continuation payments are monthly, arriving 7-10 days after submission.
Tax Implications
No tax is payable on UIF maternity benefits.
Common Questions
Receiving Money and Claims
The Department does not reject claims based on money received in your account. Proof of banking details is needed to ensure payments go to the correct account. It must be your personal account, not your husband’s or a joint account.
Previous UIF Claims
If you claimed maternity UIF benefits in the last four years, you can claim again unless you claimed sick or unemployment benefits recently.
Non-South African Employees
Since 2010, non-South African employees can claim UIF with a valid work permit and UIF contributions. Note, these applications take longer to process.
Required Forms
- UI-2.3: Application for Maternity Benefits
- UI-19: Employer’s Declaration
- UI-2.7: Remuneration Received by the Employee
- UI-2.8: Application to Pay Benefits into Banking Account
- Salary Schedule for each employer over the last four years
Processing Time
Expect a processing time of 6-8 weeks, though delays can occur.
People Also Ask
Can I claim UIF if I resign while pregnant?
Yes, you can claim four months of UIF maternity benefits if you resign while pregnant, which is an exception to the typical UIF rules.
When should I submit my UIF maternity application?
Submit your application once you stop receiving your full salary. If submitted earlier, it will be rejected.
How long can I claim UIF maternity benefits?
You can claim for the actual time you’re on maternity leave, up to a maximum of four months.
What percentage of my salary will I receive?
You will receive between 38% and 58% of your gross salary per month, based on your earnings over the last four years.
Can hourly workers claim UIF maternity benefits?
Yes, hourly workers can claim. Calculate the last six months’ salary, divide by six, and use this amount for your claim.
What happens if I’ve changed jobs in the last four years?
Your previous employers must complete a UI.19 form to ensure you receive the maximum credits for your maternity UIF benefit.
Can I claim UIF if I was retrenched or my contract ended?
Yes, you can claim maternity benefits first, followed by unemployment benefits. Apply for maternity benefits regardless of how far along you are in your pregnancy.
How long does it take to receive the first payment?
The first payment is typically small and arrives within a week. Monthly continuation payments follow 7-10 days after submission.
Do I pay tax on UIF maternity benefits?
No, UIF maternity benefits are not taxable.
Can non-South Africans claim UIF maternity benefits?
Yes, non-South Africans with a valid work permit and UIF contributions can claim. These applications may take longer to process.
What forms are required for a UIF maternity claim?
You need UI-2.3, UI-19, UI-2.7, UI-2.8, and a salary schedule for each employer over the last four years.