Can Retirees Get UIF and SASSA Pension Together?

Are you retiring and wondering if you can receive both UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) benefits and a SASSA pension at the same time? Many South Africans face this question when planning for retirement.

The short answer is yes, but it may affect your pension amount. Understanding how UIF and SASSA work together can help you maximize your financial support during retirement.

This guide explains UIF eligibility, SASSA’s means test, and the best strategy for applying for both benefits.

Can Retirees Receive Both UIF and SASSA Pension? (Quick Answer)

Yes, retirees can receive UIF and a SASSA pension, but UIF counts as income, which may reduce or disqualify pension payments. To maximize benefits, claim UIF first, then apply for SASSA once UIF stops. Always check SASSA’s means test limits before applying.

What Are UIF and SASSA Pension?

Before looking at whether you can receive both, let’s break down these two systems:

1. UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)

• Purpose: Provides short-term financial relief to workers who lost their jobs.
• Who Qualifies? Employees who contributed to UIF while working.
• Duration: UIF payments last for a limited time (typically up to 12 months).

2. SASSA Older Person’s Grant (Pension)

• Purpose: A monthly social grant for retirees who meet the financial eligibility criteria.
• Who Qualifies? South Africans 60 years or older with limited income and assets.
• Means Test: SASSA checks your income and assets before approving your pension.

Can You Receive UIF and SASSA Pension Together?

Yes, retirees can receive both UIF and SASSA, but SASSA considers UIF payments as income.

This means that if you receive UIF benefits, your SASSA pension amount may be reduced or even denied depending on the means test.

How Does SASSA Decide? – Understanding the SASSA Means Test

SASSA uses a means test to check whether an applicant qualifies for the Older Person’s Grant.

Income Limits for SASSA Pension (2025)

To qualify for a full or partial pension, your yearly income must be:

• Single applicants: Less than R96,840 per year (R8,070 per month).
• Married applicants: Less than R193,680 per year (R16,140 per month combined).

If your income (including UIF payments) is above these limits, you won’t qualify for the grant.

The UIF and SASSA “Money Cup” Effect

Think of your total income as a cup:

1. UIF payments fill the cup first (temporary income).
2. SASSA checks how full the cup is before adding pension money.
3. If the cup is full from UIF, SASSA may reduce or deny pension payments.

Best Strategy: Claim UIF First, Then Apply for SASSA Pension

Since UIF is temporary, a smarter strategy is to:

1️⃣ Apply for UIF benefits first – Use this financial support while it lasts.
2️⃣ Wait until UIF payments stop – Your income will be lower.
3️⃣ Then apply for the SASSA pension – With no UIF income, you may qualify for a higher pension amount.

Why does this work?
Because once UIF payments end, your income is lower, making it easier to pass the means test for full SASSA benefits.

Steps to Apply for UIF and SASSA Pension

Step 1: Check UIF Eligibility

• Visit the Department of Labour website at www.labour.gov.za or call 0800 030 007.
• Ensure you meet UIF claim requirements (contributed to UIF while working).
• Submit your UIF claim online or at a labour centre.

Step 2: Receive UIF Payments

• UIF payments are made monthly for up to 12 months.
• Track your payments through the UIF online portal.

Step 3: Apply for SASSA Pension After UIF Ends

• Once your UIF money runs out, apply for the Older Person’s Grant.
• Visit www.sassa.gov.za or call 0800 60 10 11 for details.
• Submit your income and asset details for the means test.

Step 4: Keep All Documents

• Save proof of UIF payments and bank statements to show SASSA if needed.

Key Considerations Before Applying for Both

✔️ You CAN apply for both UIF and SASSA, but SASSA may reduce your pension if you’re receiving UIF.
✔️ The best option is to claim UIF first, then apply for the SASSA pension when UIF ends.
✔️ Always be honest about your income when applying for SASSA to avoid penalties.

Where to Get Help?

Navigating retirement benefits can be confusing. If you need help, contact:

📞 SASSA Customer Support: 0800 60 10 11
📞 Department of Labour (UIF queries): 0800 030 007
📧 Black Sash (Legal & Social Grants Help): [email protected] | Call 072 633 3739

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can a retiree receive UIF and SASSA pension at the same time?

Yes, but UIF is considered income, which may reduce or disqualify the pension.

Q. What happens if I apply for SASSA while receiving UIF?

SASSA may reduce your pension amount or deny it if your UIF payments push your income above the means test limit.

Q. Should I apply for UIF or SASSA first?

Apply for UIF first, use the benefits while they last, then apply for SASSA pension once UIF stops for a better chance at full pension approval.

Q. Can I hide UIF payments from SASSA?

No. Failing to report UIF income may lead to grant suspension, penalties, or repayment of benefits.

Q. What if I urgently need both UIF and SASSA?

If you’re in financial distress, contact SASSA’s social workers for additional support.