UIF
Calculator.
See exactly how much UIF you and your employer contribute each month, plus an estimate of your benefit if you were retrenched. Updated for the current earnings ceiling of R17 712/month.
UIF contributions are capped at the insurable earnings ceiling of R 17 712,00/month.
Your UIF figures
Your contribution
R 177,12
per month (deducted from pay)
Employer's contribution
R 177,12
per month (employer pays)
Total into UIF fund
R 354,24
per month (both sides)
Estimated benefit if retrenched
R 6 730,56
per month — based on 38% income replacement rate
11 months
maximum benefit period (4+ years employment)
This is an estimate. Your actual benefit depends on your contribution history and is calculated by the Department of Employment and Labour. Visit uif.labour.gov.za for an exact figure.
How UIF is calculated
See your full take-home pay
Include PAYE, medical aid credits, and pension deductions.
Data: Effective 1 March 2026 · UIF Act 63 of 2001 · SARS 2026/27 tax tables · See methodology
How does UIF work in South Africa?
UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) is a compulsory government scheme that provides short-term relief to workers who lose their income due to retrenchment, illness, maternity, or the death of a contributor. It is governed by the Unemployment Insurance Act (Act 63 of 2001) and administered by the Department of Employment and Labour.
Both you and your employer each contribute 1% of your gross monthly salary, capped at the insurable earnings ceiling. This means the maximum deduction from your pay cheque is R177.12/month — no matter how high your salary.
What does UIF cover?
UIF benefits are available for unemployment (retrenchment or dismissal), illness (if unable to work for more than 14 days), maternity (up to 17.32 weeks), adoption, and for dependants upon the death of a contributor.
How long can I claim UIF?
You accumulate one credit day for every four days you work while contributing to UIF. The maximum credit is 365 days (238 payable benefit days). If you have worked continuously for four or more years, you qualify for the maximum benefit period of approximately 11 months.
Frequently asked questions
How much UIF do I pay per month?
You pay 1% of your gross monthly salary as your UIF contribution, up to a maximum of R177.12/month. Your employer also pays 1%, so the total going into your UIF account is 2% of your salary (capped at R354.24/month).
What is the UIF insurable earnings ceiling?
The UIF insurable earnings ceiling is R17 712/month. If you earn more than this, UIF contributions are still calculated on R17 712 — not your full salary.
How is the UIF benefit calculated if I am retrenched?
Your UIF benefit is based on your Income Replacement Rate (IRR), which ranges from 38% to 58% of your daily salary depending on how much you earn — lower earners receive a higher replacement rate. The benefit is paid for up to 238 days (about 11 months) if you have 4+ years of employment credit built up.
Who is exempt from UIF?
Workers who are exempt from UIF include those working fewer than 24 hours per month for an employer, learners under a learnership agreement, members of the National Defence Force, the National Intelligence Agency, and the South African Secret Service.
How do I claim UIF?
To claim UIF, register at your nearest Labour Centre or online at the Department of Employment and Labour's uFiling portal (ufiling.labour.gov.za). You'll need your ID, UI-19 form from your employer, and banking details. Claims must be submitted within 6 months of becoming unemployed.
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