By law, all domestic employers who employ any domestic worker in their household for 24 hours or more per month need to register them with the Unemployment Insurance and Workmen’s Compensation Funds (UIF Act and COIDA).

By domestic worker, we mean a cleaner, gardener, driver, nanny, au pair, or caregiver looking after the sick, elderly, or disabled.

In this article, former state prosecutor, labour law consultant, and ex officio official at (SA) EUO, Stephanie Cilliers, answers some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic.

UIF basics

What is the purpose of UIF?

The UIF provides short-term relief to workers in scenarios such as unemployment, illness, maternity leave, adoption leave, dependent aid, and reduced working hours.

Who is responsible for administering UIF?

As a domestic employer, you are responsible for registering as an employer, submitting a declaration when workers’ services commence or are terminated, making necessary deductions and contributions, paying them to the UIF, and keeping records.

How do UIF contributions work?

The contribution to UIF equates to 2% of the payroll, with 1% deducted from workers’ salaries and 1% contributed by you. These contributions must be paid monthly or annually in advance.

How do I register for UIF?

You can register via the U-filing system at www.ufiling.gov.za, complete the UI-8 and UI-19 forms and email them to newuifregistrations@labour.gov.za, or visit the Department of Labour’s offices.

Do I need to re-register if I was registered with UIF years ago but no longer have a record of it?

No, you do not need to re-register. Visit or call the UIF offices with your ID document to request your UIF registration number. Verify your identity with security questions, and then update the details of your workers through a UI-19 form.

Can I now deduct my domestic workers’ contributions all at once if I’ve never deducted UIF or made any payments before?

No, you cannot penalise your worker for your oversight. You can start deducting their current contributions immediately, but you will need to cover the arrears contributions.

Can I make arrangements for arrear payments?

Yes, you can arrange to pay off arrears’ contributions. This involves registering your employees and submitting the details of missed contributions. Penalties and interest will apply.

What if the worker needs to claim, and whose responsibility are claims?

It is the worker’s responsibility to claim benefits when needed, such as during maternity leave. They should contact the Department of Labour directly. The Department determines the percentage of income paid. Employers should not get involved in the claims process.

What if the worker works with other domestic employers on other days of the week?

Each employer must register separately and ensure their respective UIF contributions are made. Each employer is responsible for their own registration and contributions.

COIDA basics

What is the purpose of COIDA?

COIDA provides compensation for employees who are disabled or die due to occupational injuries or diseases contracted during their employment. It covers medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost earnings.

How do I register for COIDA?

Register with the Compensation Fund online at cfonline.labour.gov.za. Alternatively, complete the required forms (W.As.2) and submit them via email or visit a Department of Labour office.

How do COIDA contributions work?

Employers pay annual assessment fees to the Compensation Fund based on the employee’s earnings and the risk associated with their type of work.

Why do I need to register if my employee’s other employer isn’t registered?

Each employer is independently responsible for registering their employees with the Compensation Fund to ensure full coverage for any work-related injuries or diseases.

If my employee is injured at work, do they claim from all their employers?

Claims should be made through the employer where the injury occurred. Each employer is responsible for their own contributions and ensuring their employees are covered.

What about foreign domestic workers? Do I also need to register them for UIF and COIDA?

Yes, foreign domestic workers must be registered for both UIF and COIDA. All employers, regardless of the nationality of their employees, are required to register their domestic workers to ensure coverage.

I find the burden of compliance overwhelming. Is there any other solution?

Yes, there is a solution. (SA) UEO, a 25-year-old employers’ organisation, has developed a dedicated membership category for domestic employers. For just R70 per month (excluding VAT), domestic employers gain access to an online HR library, CCMA cover, a monthly payslip, basic labour advice via WhatsApp, and administration of UIF and COIDA on their behalf. For more info, email domestics@saueo.co.za or visit www.saueo.co.za.

Stephanie Cilliers, former State Prosecutor, Labour Law Consultant, and ex officio official at (SA)UEO.

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