How much notice must I give a domestic worker?

Notice depends on length of service (BCEA s37): under 6 months is 1 week, 6 to 12 months is 2 weeks, and over 1 year is 4 weeks. You either work the notice or pay it out.

Must I pay severance when I let a domestic worker go?

Severance is only owed on retrenchment (operational requirements). It is 1 week's pay for every completed year of continuous service (BCEA s41). It is not payable for dismissal, resignation or a contract simply ending.

What documents must I give a domestic worker when they leave?

A certificate of service is required by law (BCEA s42), and you must submit a UI-19 to the UIF so the worker can claim. The Dignita pack gives you both.

Free tool

Domestic worker termination calculator

See exactly what you owe when employment ends — notice, severance and accrued leave — then download a free certificate of service and UI-19 document pack.

Your name (employer) *

Worker's full name *

Home / place of work address *

Worker's ID number

Optional — for the documents

Role *

Start date *

End date *

Reason employment is ending *

Monthly pay (R) *

Days per week *

Accrued leave days

Owed but not taken

What you owe

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A document pack — certificate of service (s42) plus UI-19 details — emailed to you, your first one is free.

Ending employment — quick answers

How much notice must I give a domestic worker?: Notice depends on length of service (BCEA s37): under 6 months is 1 week, 6 to 12 months is 2 weeks, and over 1 year is 4 weeks. You either work the notice or pay it out.
Must I pay severance when I let a domestic worker go?: Severance is only owed on retrenchment (operational requirements). It is 1 week's pay for every completed year of continuous service (BCEA s41). It is not payable for dismissal, resignation or a contract simply ending.
What documents must I give a domestic worker when they leave?: A certificate of service is required by law (BCEA s42), and you must submit a UI-19 to the UIF so the worker can claim. The Dignita pack gives you both.

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.