How to Check Your UIF Balance in South Africa
Get clear guidance on checking your UIF balance in South Africa. Easily confirm your contributions and understand your potential benefits.
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) in South Africa provides short-term financial relief to employees facing unemployment or unable to work due to maternity, illness, or adoption leave. Established under the Unemployment Insurance Act (No. 30, 1996) and the Unemployment Insurance Contributions Act, 2002, the UIF helps individuals understand their contribution history and potential benefit eligibility.
Online Balance Check
Accessing your UIF balance online requires your South African ID number for identity confirmation. If you are a registered uFiling user, your login credentials are necessary. Any UIF reference numbers from past claims or contributions can also assist in retrieving information.
The official online portal for managing UIF contributions and checking balances is the uFiling system, accessible at ufiling.labour.gov.za/uif/. Returning users can log in with their registered username and password.
New users must register by providing their South African ID number, full name, a valid cell phone number, and an email address. After successful registration and login, you can locate your balance information within the system.
Once logged into your uFiling account, look for options such as “View Contributions,” “Statement,” “My Profile,” or “Benefit Application and Payment” to find your balance or contribution history. The system displays your UIF contribution figures and available credits. A slight delay in updates for recent contributions may occur.
Mobile Balance Check
Checking your UIF balance via mobile phone is a convenient alternative, especially for those without consistent internet access. You need a South African ID number and an active mobile phone number registered with the UIF. This ensures the system can securely identify your profile and deliver the information.
The primary mobile method is the USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) service, which is generally free. To use this service, dial 134843# from your mobile phone. A menu will appear with various UIF service options.
You will be prompted to select an option to check your balance or status, then enter your South African ID number. The system will process your request and send an SMS with your UIF balance or status. While the USSD service is free, any subsequent SMS messages may incur standard network rates.
Direct Assistance Channels
For individuals who prefer direct interaction, several assistance channels are available to check UIF balances and receive support. When using these methods, have your South African ID, any relevant UIF reference numbers, and employment history readily available. This information helps representatives quickly access your records and provide accurate assistance.
One direct method is to contact the official UIF call center at 0800 030 007. You may encounter automated prompts before connecting to an agent; follow the instructions. Be prepared for potential waiting times, especially during peak hours, as call volumes can be high.
Alternatively, visit a Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) office in person. Bring your South African ID and any employment-related documents, such as payslips or letters of employment, to clarify your contribution history. At the office, a consultant can assist you in verifying your UIF balance and addressing inquiries.