Domestic workers are entitled to claim UIF benefits when they go on maternity leave. The following forms must be completed / documents provided in order for a domestic worker to obtain UIF Maternity Benefits:

• a UI 2.3 application for Maternity Benefits (completed by employee & medical practitioner / midwife);
• 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 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 4 Application for continuation of Maternity Benefits (completed by employee and medical practitioner in certain circumstances)
• certified copy of birth certificate (if applying after birth).

Click to download copies of the above forms necessary to claim maternity 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 Maternity benefits can be made up to 12 months after the birth of a child but preferably claims should be submitted in advance of the birth of a child to ensure the timeous receipt of benefits (i.e. while a domestic worker does not have a salary).

Click to download the UIF User Guide to assist you with applying for maternity 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 female domestic workers on maternity leave will be entitled to claim 66% of their monthly salaries up to a maximum cap of R17, 712.00 per month.