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.
What recourse is available for asylum seekers if their first application was rejected?
You are able to appeal the rejection. It may help to contact a human rights and legal organisations for assistance and advice.
Our rental home was sold by Communicare and the new owners told us to vacate. What can we do?
You can contact the Enhanced Extended Discount Benefit Scheme and the Western Cape Rental Housing Tribunal for assistance.
I stepped on a screw at work but only realised I was injured a month later. Do I still qualify for compensation?
Employers are required by law to report an injury on duty to Workmen’s Compensation within seven days.
How do I request my employment history at UIF?
You will need to go to your nearest Labour Centre with your ID to request a printout.
My husband's aplication for permanent residency was rejected. We submitted an appeal and have not heard back for months. Please help us!
The delay your husband is experience at Home Affairs is unfortunately very common. You can lodge a formal complaint with the Public Protector.
Who should I contact to submit an overstay appeal application?
Home Affairs and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
My daughter stole my deceased mother's documents so she can claim her funeral policy. Please help me!
Notify the funeral policy company immediately to freeze the policy to prevent a wrongful payout.
My employer applied for me to be medically boarded. But the insurance company contracted to my employer has not paid me yet.
If you were a member of a fund or scheme that provides disability benefits, and your employer applied for you to be medically boarded, the insurer has the final say on whether you qualify to benifit.
How can my siblings and I find out if our father left us any inheritance?
If your father did not leave a will, the Intestate Succession Act will apply. Your right to inherit from your father will come before his brothers.
My uncle, the executor of my mother's deceased estate, is not communicating with me as her first born child. What can I do?
You have the right to request formal updates from your uncle, if he doesn't respond you can lodge a complaint with the Master's Office.