UIF Number

A UIF Number is issued when your company registers for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).

It’s used to track your monthly UIF contributions as an employer.

UIF is a government fund that provides short-term financial support to employees who:

  • Lose their jobs
  • Go on maternity leave
  • Are unable to work due to illness or injury
  • Lose a spouse who was contributing to UIF

"When do I need a UIF Number?"

You must register for UIF if:

  • You have one or more employees
  • They work more than 24 hours per month
  • They earn above the minimum wage
  • They’re not sole directors or true independent contractors

This includes part-time staff, domestic workers, or anyone you pay regularly.

"How much do I need to contribute?"

  • You pay 1% of each employee’s salary as the employer
  • You also deduct 1% from the employee’s salary
  • That’s a total of 2% per employee, paid to SARS each month

This contribution gives your employees access to financial support when they need it most.

"Is UIF registration the same as PAYE?"

No, they’re separate registrations, but they often happen together.

When you register for PAYE, you’ll usually register for UIF and SDL (Skills Development Levy) at the same time.

Govchain can handle all three in one go.

"Do I also need to register with the Department of Labour?"

Yes.

  • SARS handles the payment of UIF
  • The Department of Employment and Labour handles the declarations (via uFiling)

To be fully compliant, your business needs to be registered with both.

"What happens if I don’t register for UIF?"

If you fail to register:

  • You could face penalties and fines
  • You’ll be flagged as non-compliant on tenders or audits
  • Your employees won’t be able to claim UIF benefits when they need them

Even small businesses are expected to comply.

"How do I get a UIF Number?"

Govchain can register your business for UIF quickly and correctly with both SARS and the Department of Labour.


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