UIF Maternity Benefits 2025: Everything Expectant Mothers Need to Know
Pregnancy is a joyful time but can create financial pressure for working mothers. In South Africa, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) provides maternity benefits to eligible contributors to help cover the period of leave. This guide explains eligibility, how much you can expect, what documents are required and how to apply in 2025.
What are UIF maternity benefits?
UIF maternity benefits replace a portion of your earnings for up to
121 consecutive days when you cannot work because of pregnancy, childbirth, adoption, miscarriage or stillbirth. The benefit is funded by compulsory monthly UIF contributions from both employers and employees.
Who can apply?
To qualify you must be a contributor to the UIF (employee, including part‑time workers who work at least 24 hours a month). Eligible applicants include South African citizens, permanent residents and legally employed foreign workers who have been contributing to UIF.
How and when to apply
You should apply within
six months after the start of your maternity leave or the birth. Applications can be lodged at labour centres or online via the UIF U‑Filing portal. Early application helps avoid payment delays.
Documents required
- UI‑19 form (employer’s declaration of employment and leave).
- UI‑2.3 or medical/birth certificate confirming pregnancy or birth.
- UI‑2.7 (salary history) and UI‑2.8 (banking details) where applicable.
- Valid identification document (ID or passport).
How much will you receive?
Benefits are calculated on a sliding scale that replaces approximately
38–60% of your earnings, with a maximum monthly UIF salary cap of
R17,712 in 2025. Payments are non‑taxable and those earning over the cap receive benefits calculated up to the capped amount.
Duration and payment
The benefit covers up to
121 consecutive days (about 4 months). UIF payments are disbursed according to UIF procedures and are paid into your nominated bank account where possible.
Tips for a smooth claim
- Submit your claim before or as soon as you start maternity leave to reduce processing delays.
- Ensure your employer completes and signs the UI‑19 and provides accurate salary details.
- Keep your banking and contact details up to date with UIF.
- If your employment ends during pregnancy, you may still qualify provided you have sufficient UIF contributions — check your contribution record.
Summary: UIF maternity benefits at a glance (2025)
| Feature |
Detail |
| Maximum duration |
121 consecutive days |
| Benefit rate |
Approx. 38–60% of salary (sliding scale) |
| Monthly salary cap |
R17,712 (2025) |
| Application deadline |
Within 6 months after start of leave or birth |
| How to apply |
Labour centres or UIF U‑Filing online |
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for UIF maternity benefits?
Contributors to UIF (employees who work at least 24 hours per month), including citizens, permanent residents and legally employed foreign workers who have made UIF contributions.
2. How long are benefits paid for?
Up to 121 consecutive days (approximately four months).
3. Where do I apply?
Apply at your local labour centre or online using the UIF U‑Filing portal. Include all required employer and medical documents to avoid delays.
Final notes
UIF maternity benefits provide important financial support for mothers during leave. Start the application early, ensure forms are completed correctly by your employer and keep UIF informed of any changes. For official guidance, visit the Department of Employment and Labour or the UIF U‑Filing website.
