UIF Documents Checklist: Everything You Need to Submit a Successful Claim

The Quick Answer

To submit a successful UIF claim, you typically need your SA ID, proof of banking details, a completed UI-2.7 application form, a UI-19 form from your employer, and specific supporting documents based on your claim type (e.g., a medical certificate for illness). Missing any one document can cause significant delays.

The Universal UIF Documents Checklist

Regardless of the type of benefit you are claiming (unemployment, illness, maternity, or adoption), you will always need these core documents. Have digital copies (clear photos or scans) ready for online filing, and originals plus copies for in-person submissions.

1. South African Identity Document

  • What it is: Your official green barcoded ID book or smart ID card.
  • Why it's needed: To verify your identity and ensure you are the person making the claim.
  • Format: A clear, colour copy of the entire document.

2. Proof of Banking Details

  • What it is: A recent (not older than 3 months) official bank statement or a stamped and signed confirmation of account letter from your bank.
  • Why it's needed: This is where your benefits will be paid. The details must be 100% accurate to avoid payment delays or funds going to the wrong account.
  • Key Info: The document must clearly show your name, account number, branch code, and the bank's name.

3. UI-2.7 Form: Application for Benefits

  • What it is: The main application form for all UIF benefits. You can download it from the Department of Labour website.
  • Why it's needed: It captures all your personal details, employment history, and declaration for the claim.
  • How to complete: You must fill this out yourself. For online uFiling, you will complete a digital version of this form.

4. UI-19 Form: Certificate of Service

  • What it is: A form completed by your employer(s) detailing your period of employment, remuneration, and the reason for your employment ending.
  • Why it's needed: It proves that you were employed, that UIF contributions were made, and provides the data needed to calculate your benefits.
  • Crucial Note: Your employer is legally obligated to provide this form to you upon termination of your employment. If they refuse or delay, you can report them to the Department of Labour.

Claim-Specific Documents

In addition to the universal documents above, you must submit proof specific to the reason for your claim.

For Unemployment Claims

  • Proof of Registration as a Work Seeker: A document from the Department of Employment and Labour proving you have registered as a job seeker. This is a mandatory step before claiming.

For Illness Benefits

  • UI-2.8 Form: Medical Certificate
    • What it is: A confidential medical report that must be completed and signed by a registered medical practitioner (doctor).
    • Why it's needed: It certifies that you were unable to work for a period of more than 14 days due to illness or injury.
    • Important: The certificate must be renewed and resubmitted monthly for the duration of your illness to continue receiving benefits.

For Maternity Benefits

  • UI-2.8 Form: Medical Certificate (Confirmation of Pregnancy)
    • What it is: The same form as for illness, but used to confirm your pregnancy and expected date of delivery.
    • Why it's needed: To prove you are pregnant and qualify for maternity benefits.
    • When to submit: You must claim before the birth of your child.

For Adoption Benefits

  • Copy of the Adoption Order
    • What it is: The official court order granting the adoption.
    • Why it's needed: To prove you have legally adopted a child under the age of two.

Practical Example: Gathering Documents for a Retrenchment Claim

Let's say Sipho, a project manager earning R 55,000.00 per month, was retrenched. Here is the complete checklist he would need for his unemployment claim:

  1. Copy of his ID
  2. Proof of Banking: A recent bank statement from his Absa account.
  3. Completed UI-2.7 Form: Filled out with his personal and employment details.
  4. UI-19 Form: Received from his most recent employer, stating his retrenchment was due to operational requirements.
  5. Proof of Registration: A receipt from the Labour office showing he registered as a work seeker.

Actionable Advice for Managing Your Documents

  • Start a UIF File: Create a physical folder and a digital folder on your computer to store all these documents. Keep everything in one place.
  • Chase Your Employer Early: Request your UI-19 form as soon as your employment ends. Do not wait until you are ready to claim.
  • Check for Completeness: Before submitting, double-check that every form is fully completed, signed, and dated where required. An incomplete UI-2.8 from a doctor is a common reason for delays.
  • Scan Everything: Even if you plan to submit in person, having clear digital copies ensures you have backups and can easily file online if needed.

Once you have all your documents in order, your next question is likely, "How much will I actually receive?" The UIF calculation uses a specific formula with a sliding scale and a salary cap, which can be complex to work out manually, especially on a higher salary like Sipho's where the cap applies. For an instant and accurate estimate of your potential benefit, use our free UIF calculator. It takes the guesswork out of your financial planning and ensures you know what to expect from your claim.