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Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email info@groundup.org.za.

How can I check my UIF balance?

You can go to the UIF uFiling website.

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I want to complete my education through ABET but donโ€™t have formal schooling. Can I do it online?

If you haven't passed Grade 9, you first need to take the General Education Training Certificate exam before you can do adult matric through ABET.

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How do I access my RAF money placed in an ABSA trust account when I was a child?

Get a copy of the Trust Deed. You will then need a lawyer to make a court application to access the funds.

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I'm a refugee working 10 years with no benefits and constant discrimination. What are my rights?

As a refugee, you have the right to fair work conditions and equal access to benefits like the UIF, medical, and provident fund if others at your workplace receive them.

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My father worked at Impala Mine and died in 2008. How do I check if he has any unclaimed money?

Search on the Financial Sector Conduct Authority database to find out whether there is unclaimed money due to your father.

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What can I do as an immigrant with a chronic condition? I am being denied access to health care by Operation Dudula.

You should be able to report any harassment to police, but it might be advisable to first seek help from a local organisation.

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Why does SASSA consider outstanding debt or loans as income with regard to the means test when applying for the old age grant?

SASSA does not regard outstanding debt or loans as income but regards these as assets. The current old age grant monthly income thresholds is R8,990 for a single person and R17,890 if you are married.

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Why was my disability grant application declined despite submitting all required documents?

Your disability grant may have been declined because your medical form was outdated. You need to submit a recent report and appeal.

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I'm struggling to get the government pension fund to process my childโ€™s claim without an affidavit from a relative that we don't know.

You may still claim from the GEPF by proving financial dependence and trying to involve the brother through a meeting, affidavit, or sworn statements from other relatives.

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Can I get medically boarded after I had two stents placed in my neck and an operation to allow blood flow to my brain?

Perhaps you should start by discussing medical boarding with your doctor.

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