Legal Q&A

How to Register Your Domestic Worker for UIF in South Africa

Every employer of a domestic worker must register with the UIF and pay 2% of wages monthly. Here's exactly how to register, what forms to use, and what happens if you haven't.

Free South African Law

Direct Answer

Employers must register domestic workers with the UIF using form UI-8 and submit monthly declarations via the uFiling portal (ufiling.labour.gov.za). Both employer and employee contribute 1% of the worker's wage. Non-registration is a criminal offence.

What the Law Says

Your Legal Foundation

Unemployment Insurance Contributions Act 4 of 2002

Section 5

“Every employer must contribute 1% of each employee's remuneration to the Unemployment Insurance Fund. The employee also contributes 1%, deducted from their pay.”

Unemployment Insurance Act 63 of 2001

Section 3(1)(c)

“Domestic employees who work for an employer in private households for more than 24 hours per month are included as contributors.”

Unemployment Insurance Act 63 of 2001

Section 56

“An employer who fails to register or contribute commits an offence and is liable to a fine or imprisonment.”

What to Do

Step-by-Step Guide

1Register as an employer on the uFiling portal at ufiling.labour.gov.za. You will need your ID number and the employee's ID number, start date, and wage.
2Alternatively, complete form UI-8 (Employer Registration) at your nearest Labour Centre. Bring your ID and your domestic worker's ID and employment details.
3Every month, declare wages and pay contributions — 1% from the employer plus 1% from the employee's wage — via uFiling or at a Labour Centre. Total contribution = 2% of gross monthly wage.
4Give your domestic worker a UI-19 form (employer details) when their employment ends. This form is required for them to claim UIF benefits.
5If you have not been registering, register now and declare the arrear period. The Department of Labour can assess back contributions but is generally willing to work out a payment arrangement. Voluntarily coming forward is better than being reported.

What to Say

Exact Words to Use

“"I am registering as a domestic employer and declaring [employee name] as a contributor from [start date]. I understand that both of us contribute 1% of her monthly wage."”

Tone: At the Labour Centre or uFiling registration

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I only employ someone once a week — do I still need to register?

Yes, if they work more than 24 hours per month in total across all their work for you. A domestic worker employed one day per week typically exceeds 24 hours per month and must be registered.

My domestic worker doesn't want me to deduct UIF from their wages — is that OK?

No. UIF registration and contributions are mandatory by law — both employer and employee contributions. Your employee cannot opt out. Explain that the contributions protect them if they lose the job, get ill, or go on maternity leave.

Can my domestic worker claim UIF if I never registered them?

Yes — they can still apply at the Labour Centre. The Department will contact you to pay the arrear contributions. Your worker's claim will be processed once contributions are received. You cannot punish your employee for reporting non-registration.

Get Help Now

Resources & Helplines

uFiling Portal

ufiling.labour.gov.za

Register and pay UIF contributions online.
UIF Contact Centre

0800 030 007

Help with registration and declarations.
Department of Labour

0800 60 10 11

Report non-registration or get walk-in help at a Labour Centre.

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