The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is a social security scheme in South Africa that provides financial support to eligible contributors who become unemployed. 

If you’ve recently lost your job, understanding your UIF claim status and balance is important for planning your finances during this challenging time. 

What is a UIF Claim?

A UIF claim is a formal application submitted to the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) to receive financial support after losing your employment.

To be eligible for a UIF claim, you must have been a contributor to the UIF for at least 24 months and meet specific qualifying conditions, such as being retrenched or having your contract terminated through no fault of your own.

The UIF payout is calculated based on your earnings and the duration of your unemployment.

The benefit is paid out monthly for a maximum period determined by your UIF contribution history.

How to Check UIF Claim Status Balance

There are several ways to check your UIF claim status and balance:

uFiling website

The Department of Employment and Labour uses an online system called uFiling for managing UIF contributions and claims.

This is the most convenient way to check your claim status and balance. Here’s how:

  1. Visit the uFiling website (https://ufiling.labour.gov.za/).
  2. Register or log in to your uFiling account.
  3. Once logged in, navigate to the “Claims” section.
  4. You will be able to see a list of your existing claims, including their status and current balance.

USSD code

You can also check your UIF claim status and balance using your mobile phone. Here’s how:

  1. Dial *134*843# on your phone.
  2. You will receive a USSD menu with several options.
  3. Select the option for “Claims and Payment Status.”
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to enter your ID number.
  5. You will then receive information about your UIF claim status and balance.

Contact the UIF Call Centre

The UIF Call Centre can also be reached for assistance with checking your claim status or balance. Here are the contact details:

  1. Phone number: 0800 030 007 (toll-free)
  2. Operating hours: Mondays to Fridays from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

You can also visit your nearest Department of Labour office to inquire about your UIF claim status and balance.