More Than R14 Billion Paid Out in UIF COVID-19 Benefits

The Unemployment Insurance Fund has paid out over R14 billion in benefits to employees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

The total amount disbursed since 16 April is now just over R14 billion. This excludes normal payments the UIF makes, which are R1.849 billion, said UIF Commissioner, Teboho Maruping.

On Monday, the UIF, which falls under the Department of Employment and Labour, processed and paid COVID-19 relief of R748,815,094, benefitting 149,263 workers who are represented by 9 362 employers, the fund said.

“This brings to 2,551,236 the total number of workers who have been given relief during lockdown which may be in lieu of or a top-up to their salaries.

Maruping said that with all the necessary information and documents furnished, the fund is now paying beneficiaries 24 hours after the claim is made at best, or 48 hours at worst.

“We are quite pleased that we are now in a position to say that the systems are in place and I would like to pay tribute to the staff members who have worked right through the clock to make it possible,” Maruping said.

For further information on benefits, employers and employees can log on to UIF website www.uifecc.labour.gov.za/covid19 or reach the UIF on the toll-free number 0800 030 007.

– SAnews.gov.za