The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) plays a pivotal role in securing the retirement and financial future of South Africa’s government employees. As the largest pension fund in South Africa and one of the largest in Africa and globally, GEPF offers a comprehensive range of benefits to its members, ensuring that their years of service are rewarded with financial stability.
- Can I check my GEPF balance online?
- Who can claim from GEPF?
- Can I withdraw money from GEPF?
- How can I check how much money I have in my pension?
- Does gepf have a WhatsApp number?
What is GEPF?
The GEPF is a defined benefit pension fund, which means that the benefits offered to members are guaranteed. This provides peace of mind to more than 1.26 million active members and approximately 524,030 pensioners. Established in 1996, GEPF manages pensions and related benefits for employees of the South African government, across more than 325 government departments.
Key Facts About GEPF
- Established: May 1996
- Nature of Fund: Defined benefit pension fund
- Membership: More than 1.267 million active members and about 524,030 pensioners
- Assets Under Management: R2.27 trillion (as of 31 March 2023)
- Funding Level: 110.1% based on the actuarial valuation conducted as of March 2021
Benefits Offered by GEPF
GEPF offers a wide range of benefits that cater to different life events, ensuring that its members and their families are taken care of in times of need. These benefits include:
1. Withdrawal Benefits
If you leave government employment before retirement age, GEPF provides a withdrawal benefit, ensuring that your contributions are not lost.
2. Retirement Benefits
Upon retirement, members are guaranteed a pension for life, which is calculated based on their years of service and final salary. GEPF ensures that retirees receive a reliable income for the rest of their lives.
3. Ill-Health or Disability Benefits
In the event of permanent disability or ill-health that prevents members from continuing their government employment, GEPF provides an ill-health or disability benefit. This helps members maintain financial stability even if they cannot work.
4. Death Benefits
In the unfortunate event of a member’s death, GEPF provides a death benefit to the beneficiaries or dependents of the deceased. This ensures that family members are financially supported after the loss of a loved one.
How is GEPF Managed?
GEPF is governed by the Government Employees Pension Law (GEP Law) of 1996, and its operations are overseen by a Board of Trustees. The board includes equal representation from both employer and member representatives, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in the management of the fund.
Administration and Investments
- Administration: Day-to-day administration of the fund has been outsourced to the Government Pensions Administrative Agency (GPAA).
- Investments: The Public Investment Corporation (PIC) is responsible for managing the investments of the fund, ensuring its long-term growth and sustainability.
GEPF’s Financial Strength
With assets worth R2.27 trillion and a funding level of 110.1%, GEPF is one of the most financially secure pension funds in the world. The fund’s investment strategy, managed by PIC, ensures that it can meet all its obligations to members and beneficiaries. This robust financial standing means that GEPF can continue to provide guaranteed benefits to its members, regardless of economic fluctuations.
GEPF’s Geographical Reach
GEPF’s services are accessible across all nine provinces of South Africa. The fund operates Client Walk-in Centres in various locations, ensuring that members can easily access assistance and information.
How to Contact GEPF
For any inquiries or assistance, GEPF can be contacted through various channels:
- Toll-free Number: 0800 117 669
- Fax: 012 326 2507
- Email: enquiries@gepf.co.za
- Postal Address:
GEPF Private Bag X63,
Pretoria,
0001
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.