Adoptive parents on adoptive leave are entitled to UIF Adoption Benefits provided that:

• the adopted child was adopted in terms of the Child Care Act 74 of 1983, as amended;
• the adopted child is below the age of two;
• only one of the adoptive parents is entitled to claim adoptive leave (the other being entitled to ten days of ordinary parental leave); and
• during the period of the adoptive leave, the adoptive parent must have spent his/her time caring for the adopted child.

The following forms must be completed / documents provided in order for a domestic worker to obtain Adoption Benefits:

• a UI 2.4 application for Adoption Benefits (completed by employee);
• a UI 2.8 application for monies to be paid directly into employee’s bank account (completed by the employee and his/her Bank);
• a copy of the employee’s Identity Document (provided by employee);
• a copy of the adoption order / interim adoption order (provided by employee);
• a UI 2.7 record of monies received by domestic worker (completed by employer);
• salary schedule form (completed by employer);
• a UI 19 declaration form (completed by employer); and
• a UI 5 Application for continuation of Adoption Benefits (completed by employee).

Click to download copies of the above forms to claim adoption benefits from the UIF.  The completed forms can either be submitted through the uFiling website or alternatively be sent by way of email to vosupport@labour.gov.za

Claims for UIF Adoption Benefits can be made up to 6 months after the adoption order is granted but condonation can be obtained where a timeous application is not made, provided that the domestic worker can show good cause for failing to apply timeously.

Click to download the UIF User Guide to assist you with applying for adoption benefits for your domestic worker online. Alternatively, domestic workers can apply themselves at a Labour Centre.

The amount that can be claimed depends on how long a domestic worker has been employed but in general domestic workers on adoption leave will be entitled to claim 66% of their monthly salaries up to a maximum cap of R17, 712.00 per month.