UIF dependants benefits
You must be the spouse, life partner, guardian or child of a deceased UIF contributor; dependent children under 21 qualify if there is no surviving spouse or life partner.
Always open
Grant
You can apply at any time
There is no closing date. Apply through the official channel below.
About
Dependants of a deceased UIF contributor can claim benefits. Eligible dependants include a spouse, life partner, guardian or child. A dependent child under 21 is entitled to benefits if there is no surviving spouse or life partner.
What it covers
Subject to credits, benefits can be paid for a maximum of 365 days; the general normal-benefit rate is a sliding scale of 38–60%.
- Dependants benefits following the death of a UIF contributor
Who can apply
Apply within six months of the contributor’s death
Be a spouse, life partner, guardian or child of the deceased contributor
A dependent child under 21 is entitled if there is no surviving spouse or life partner
Documents to prepare
13-digit bar-coded or Smart Card RSA ID, passport or valid foreign national passport/ID, asylum seeker or refugee document
Death certificate; only a South African burial order issued by Home Affairs is accepted for a foreign death
Marriage certificate, or marriage certificate/Lobola letter/affidavit for a life partner
Birth certificates of dependants
For a child applying through a guardian, proof of guardianship and, if applicable, a school confirmation letter
Proof of schooling for dependants aged 21 to 25
How to apply
- 1Apply within six months of the contributor’s death
- 2Find out more about claiming UIF dependants’ benefits
Sources
Official sourceUnemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)Checked against www.gov.za on 23 Oct 2026. Govnet is independent — always confirm with the provider.