Any UIF-contributing business facing distress, on lockdown and unable to pay salaries due to lockdown can apply for the COVID-19 TERS Benefit.
Companies are encouraged to apply on behalf of their employees using the e-mail address (COVID19ters@labour.gov.za). Once you email this address, an automatic reply with all the required documents and a step-by-step process for applying will follow.
Completed applications and documents must be submitted to Covid19UIF@labour.gov.za. For assistance, you can call government’s hotline on (012) 337 1997.
Frequently asked questions
Who has to apply for the Covid19 Relief Benefit?
How do I apply?
What is the deadline for the submission of applications?
Do employers who are not registered with the UIF qualify for the Relief Benefit?
How much will I be paid?
How is the money going to be paid?
UIF forms and guides
Please find a selection of forms and guides regarding the Unemployment Insurance Fund and ways to get relief during the coronavirus pandemic, below.
Easy-Aid guide to accessing coronavirus benefits
This is the Easy-Aid Guide for Employers that has been compiled by the Unemployement Insurance Commissioner. It details the processes you can follow to access UI benefits to contribute to the containment of the spread of the coronavirus and its impact.
Employer confirmation letter UIF-short time 23032020 (1)
Employers can use this letter template to confirm that an employee has been temporarily laid off or to confirm that the employee’s working hours have been reduced. This letter must be submitted with the relevant UIF claim form.
Employer letter for COVID-19
This form must be submitted when claiming for UIF to confirm that the employee did not report for duty during the lockdown period as a measure to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS)
This document outlines the steps a company should take when they want to enter the TERS process, during which the Unemployment Insurance Fund may fund distressed companies directly in relation to the TERS Allowance.
UI2.1 Application for unemployment benefits
This is an unemployement insurance form which can be used to apply for unemployment benefits in terms of section 17(1). It has requirements such as a digit barcoded identity document and level of education.
UI-2.2 Application for illness benefits
This form is used to claim from UIF when you are unable to work due to an illness. To qualify for this benefit, you must be receiving less than your normal wages while you are on sick leave.
UI2.8 Authorisation pay benefits into banking account
This form is used to confirm the banking details of the applicant and to authorise the payment for the application. After the form has been filled out by the applicant, it has to be completed by the financial institution (bank/post office).
UI-2.7 Remuneration whilst in employement
This form must be submitted to apply for UIF by an employee that is unable to work due to reduced working hours. This form must be submitted together with the employer’s letter confirming the reduced working hours.
U-19 Employer’s declaration of commercial employees in private household
This is a declaration of information for commercial employees and workers employed in a private household. Employers must use this form to keep the Department of Labour updated on all employees registered for UIF. Employers must inform the Department when an employee begins work, leaves work, or when there is a salary change.