Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
13 September 2024 | 16:32 CAT

Some selected Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) service points will open at weekends during September.

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has proactively managed the increased demand for uFiling services by announcing extended operating hours on Saturdays at selected service points.

As stated by the Department of Employment and Labour, this decision comes after the Pretoria High Court issued an interim interdict at the end of August 2024, halting a new support and maintenance contract for the uFiling system.

According to the department spokesperson Trevor Hattingh, the UIF has processed over 181,000 claims, totalling R419 million at service points nationwide since the suspension.

Hattingh said that selected UIF service points will operate from 7.30 am to 4 pm throughout September to manage the heightened demand.

uFiling is an online platform for applying for UIF benefits, registering companies, and declaring employee contributions every month.

Due to the uFiling platform’s lack of support or maintenance, its services were suspended.

Since the suspension of uFiling, unemployment insurance has processed more than 181,000 claims at service points around the country, totalling a payout of R419 607 185.

Through queue management, monitoring of operations and staff repurposing, the UIF has adequately handled claim volumes around the country. The Fund is confident in its ability to maintain the status quo and develop alternative online solutions for clients and employers.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Muallimah Annisa Essack and department spokesperson Trevor Hattingh here.