How to Use a UIF Calculator Based on Your Salary in South Africa

By | July 16, 2025

In South Africa, the UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) contribution is a compulsory deduction made from employees’ salaries to support workers during periods of unemployment, illness, or maternity leave. Both employers and employees are required to contribute equally to the UIF every month.

Understanding how this deduction is calculated can help you verify your payslip and stay compliant as an employer.


What Is the UIF Contribution Rate?

As of the latest guidelines:

  • Employee contribution: 1% of gross monthly salary
  • Employer contribution: 1% of gross monthly salary
  • Total UIF contribution: 2% of the employee’s gross salary

This rate applies up to the maximum UIF threshold. For updated limits, consult the Department of Labour or your payroll administrator.


How to Calculate UIF on Your Salary

To estimate your monthly UIF contribution, follow these steps:

Step 1: Calculate Employee’s Contribution

Employee UIF = Gross Salary × 0.01

Step 2: Calculate Employer’s Contribution

Employer UIF = Gross Salary × 0.01

Step 3: Add Both to Get Total UIF Contribution

Total UIF = Employee UIF + Employer UIF


Example Calculation

Let’s say your gross monthly salary is R10,000.

  • Employee UIF: R10,000 × 0.01 = R100
  • Employer UIF: R10,000 × 0.01 = R100
  • Total UIF Contribution: R100 + R100 = R200

So, R100 will be deducted from your salary, and your employer will match that with another R100—resulting in a total UIF payment of R200.


Why It Matters

  • These contributions ensure you’re eligible for benefits in case you lose your job, take maternity leave, or fall ill.
  • Employers are legally required to deduct and contribute to UIF monthly.
  • It also helps employees track their deductions and verify payslip accuracy.

Where to Get an Online UIF Calculator

While UIF contributions are straightforward to calculate manually, some payroll systems and HR tools offer built-in UIF calculators. You can also find UIF calculators on websites like:


Final Tip

Always ensure your gross salary is correctly recorded and your UIF contributions are properly reflected on your payslip. If anything looks off, contact your HR department or visit your nearest Labour Centre for clarification.