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 [email protected].
Can I stop my previous employer from attaching my provident fund to pay maintenance?
You will have to show the maintenance court evidence that you can continue paying maintenance without the attachment to your provident fund.
My child was hit by a car eight years ago and still experiences pain today. RAF said I can't claim compensation because the injury wasn't deemed serious. What can I do?
Return to the hospital where you child was treated and request for them to assess how the injury affected your child's life.
The company I work for has not given us a contract to sign and is robbing employees through hours worked and money paid.
Your employer is not legally required to give you a written contract to sign.
I am 55 and survive on a disability grant. Do I qualify for a government subsidy to buy or rent a house?
Yes, you can apply for an RDP/BNG house or rent at a social housing project.
My father passed away due to silicosis complications. How can I claim benefits?
You could claim benefits under Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act of 1973 or the Tshiamiso Trust.
Are employees of liquidated companies considered creditors that must be paid by the liquidators?
Yes, but there are other creditors that need to be paid off first.
How do I apply for an ID if my mother has died and I lost my birth certificate?
You can apply for a replacement birth certificate, and contact DIRCO to a get your mother's death certificate from the country she died in.
My employer applied for me to be medically boarded. But the insurance company 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.
My husband's application for permanent residency was rejected. We appealed months ago but have not heard back. 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.
I have been shortlisted for a new job and have an interview next week. Do I have to tell the panel I am three months pregnant?
No, you are not legally or ethically required to tell the panel that you are pregnant.