Updated 11 August 2025
Getting dismissed means your employer ends your job. In South Africa, your rights and next steps depend on the Labour Relations Act (LRA) and your contract. Here’s what to expect—written for mobile screens and load-shedding days.
- Types of dismissal you may face Type Typical reason Paid notice? UIF? Summary dismissal Gross misconduct (theft, violence) Immediate, no notice Yes Dismissal with notice Poor performance / misconduct 1–4 weeks’ notice or pay in lieu Yes Retrenchment Operational requirements At least 1 week per year of service Yes Constructive dismissal You resign because employer made life impossible No notice, but can claim at CCMA Yes
- Your payslip on the last day must show
- Outstanding salary
- Accrued leave paid out
- Notice pay or severance (if retrenchment)
- UIF (code 4141) up to date
Tip: Photograph the payslip—HR systems sometimes go offline.
- How much severance?
Retrenchment: 1 week’s pay for every completed year of service (section 41 of the BCEA).
Example: R8 000 monthly salary × 5 years = R9 231 severance (R8 000 ÷ 4.33 × 5). - UIF claim—start today
Within 6 months of dismissal: - Ask HR for UI-19 form (the golden ticket).
- Register on uFiling app → UIF Benefits → Apply.
- Upload: UI-19, certified ID, bank letter.
Payout arrives in 15–35 working days. - CCMA time limits
- Unfair dismissal: file within 30 days.
- Unfair retrenchment: file within 30 days.
WhatsApp: 060 753 0660 to lodge or call 0861 16 16 16.
- Emotional & money first-aid
- SASSA R370 grant – apply on govchat or WhatsApp 0600 123 456 if cash runs dry.
- Debt relief – speak to a debt counsellor within 10 days; your credit record is protected once under review.
- LinkedIn – update headline to “Immediately available” and set location to your city; recruiters filter by this.
- Quick checklist the day you’re dismissed
☐ Collect UI-19 and last payslip
☐ Download or screenshot payslip
☐ File UIF claim on uFiling app
☐ CCMA referral if unfair (30 days)
☐ Update CV on phone and start networking
Common SA Google searches
“How much severance pay in South Africa 2025”
“Can I claim UIF after being dismissed?”
“CCMA WhatsApp number unfair dismissal”
“Notice period after dismissal South Africa”
Bottom line
Dismissal is stressful, but South African law gives you severance (if retrenchment), UIF income and CCMA protection. Grab your UI-19, open the uFiling app and start your claim before you leave the building—your phone is your new HR office.