Register as a domestic employer with the UIF (uFiling at ufiling.labour.gov.za or form UI-8D) within 14 days of employing someone who works more than 24 hours a month, then add the worker and declare their pay each month. UIF is 2% of the worker's gross — 1% deducted from the worker and 1% added by you — calculated up to a ceiling of R17 712, so each side pays at most R177.12 per month.
Step by step
1Confirm your worker works more than 24 hours a month for you (the UIF threshold).
2Register as a domestic employer on uFiling (ufiling.labour.gov.za) or with form UI-8D, within 14 days of becoming liable.
3Add the worker's details (ID number, start date, monthly pay) on UI-19.
4Each month, calculate 2% of gross (1% worker + 1% employer), capped at R177.12 each on earnings up to R17 712.
5Submit the monthly UIF declaration and pay the contribution by the 7th of the following month.
6Show the 1% worker deduction on every payslip and keep records for the worker's benefit claims.
Who has to register
UIF is compulsory for any domestic worker who works more than 24 hours a month for you. If your worker is below that threshold (for example, a few hours one day a week), UIF does not apply. Once you cross 24 hours a month you must register as an employer and declare and pay every month, even for a single domestic worker.
How the 2% is split
The total UIF contribution is 2% of the worker's monthly gross pay: 1% is deducted from the worker's wage and 1% is added by you as the employer (you do not deduct your half from their pay). Contributions are only calculated on earnings up to the monthly ceiling of R17 712, so the most either side ever pays is R177.12 per month. The combined maximum is therefore R354.24.
Where to register and declare
The easiest route is uFiling (ufiling.labour.gov.za), the Department of Employment and Labour's free online system, where you can register, add workers and submit monthly declarations and payments. The paper alternative is form UI-8D (registration of a domestic employer) plus UI-19 (employee details). You must register within 14 days of becoming liable.
Why it matters
Without UIF declarations your worker cannot claim unemployment, maternity, illness or dependant's benefits — and an employer who fails to register or pay can face penalties and interest. Keeping declarations current also means a smooth claim if employment ever ends.
Frequently asked questions
How much UIF do I pay for a domestic worker?
2% of the worker's gross pay in total — 1% deducted from the worker and 1% added by you. It is capped on earnings up to R17 712 a month, so the maximum is R177.12 from each side (R354.24 combined).
Do I have to register for UIF for a part-time domestic worker?
Yes, if they work more than 24 hours a month for you. Below 24 hours a month UIF does not apply.
By when must I register?
Within 14 days of becoming liable — that is, within 14 days of employing a domestic worker who works more than 24 hours a month.
Dignita is a compliance tool, not legal advice. Figures are based on current South African legislation; confirm with a labour-law professional for your situation.