How to Apply for UIF After Retirement

The purpose of the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is to provide financial relief to employees who have involuntarily lost their employment or income due to retrenchment or dismissal (illness, pregnancy, adoption or death).

Considering the high unemployment rate and economic climate in South Africa, many retirees would prefer to continue working mainly due to financial reasons and because they have not saved sufficiently for their retirement during the course of their lifetime.

It is important for these employees to remember to register for UIF benefits when they reach the retirement age of their company.

Many employees are under the impression that UI benefits are for workers who have been retrenched or can no longer work due to illness, which is not the case.

Who can claim Retirement UIF benefits through?

• You can claim retirement benefits if you have retired from employment and will not be seeking further employment. You can not claim if you have taken early retirement.

• You can claim retirement benefits through us if you are a South African national and have a barcoded ID book.

How long do claims take to be processed?

• The process for claiming benefits after retirement is as follows:
  1. Request and complete the UI19 form from the employer
  2. Employer must sign and stamp the UI19
  3. Employee must register as a job seeker with the Department of Labour
  4. Benefits must be claimed as soon as possible after becoming unemployed

How will I receive my funds?

• When you apply with us, you will be asked to provide proof of banking details. These details are then registered on the Department’s system, and they will pay your benefits directly into your bank account.

• The Department takes on average 7-10 days to process a continuation form and make payment, so your payments will not necessarily be received on the same day each month.

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