How is the UIF benefit calculated in South Africa?

UIF benefits use an Income Replacement Rate (IRR) formula between 38% and 60% of your salary — lower earners receive a higher percentage. Benefits are based on salary capped at R17,712/year.

How long can I claim UIF for?

You can claim UIF for up to 238 days for retrenchment or illness, and up to 121 days (17 weeks) for maternity, depending on your accumulated credit days.

UIF Benefit Calculator South Africa 2026

UIF

Calculate your UIF benefit

Select your claim type and enter your salary details

Monthly Gross Salary

Years Employed at This Job

Monthly UIF benefit

per month (estimated)

0%Of salary

UIF Benefit Breakdown

Monthly gross salaryR0

Salary used for UIF (capped at R17,712/yr)R0

Daily income (÷ 30)R0

Income Replacement Rate (IRR)0%

Daily UIF benefitR0

Monthly UIF benefit (× 30)R0

Claim Duration

Claim typeRetrenchment

Your credit days (based on employment)0 days

Maximum claim period0 days

Your claim period0 days

✓ Estimated total UIF payoutR0

ℹUIF uses an Income Replacement Rate (IRR) formula — lower earners receive a higher percentage. Minimum IRR is 38%, maximum is 60%.

⚠Estimates only. Actual benefits are determined by the Department of Employment & Labour. Apply at ufiling.labour.gov.za or your nearest Labour Centre.

How to claim / UIF Process

Documents you need

You will need your South African ID, UI-19 form from your employer (showing your last day of employment), your most recent payslip, and your bank account details. For maternity claims, you also need a medical certificate confirming your due date or birth.

How to apply

Apply online at ufiling.labour.gov.za or visit your nearest Department of Employment and Labour office. You must apply within 6 months of becoming unemployed or starting maternity leave. Benefits are paid directly into your bank account, typically within 2–4 weeks of approval.