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].
My father died a few years ago and did not leave a will. Who inherits his council house?
Since your father did not leave a will, the house would fall under the Interstate Succession Act and is to be shared equally by the surviving children.
My parent's ID is blocked. Can I still apply for an ID at Home Affairs?
Home Affairs must allow children and adult descendants of parents with blocked IDs to apply but you must have South African Citizenship documents.
Can my landlord cut the electricity if I haven't paid my rent?
A landlord is not allowed to cut off a tenant's electricity without a court order, even if they are in arrears with the rent.
Is it fair for a general worker to earn less than R30 an hour?
The national minimum wage went up to R30,23 per hour from 1 March 2026.
Do I qualify for a rent-to-own house if I earn R5,500 per month?
Your salary is not enough for a rent-to-own house, but you would qualify for first home subsidy assistance.
Can an employer withhold pay if you are ill and have exhausted the sick and annual leave?
The only financial alternative would be to claim from the UIF until deemed fit to return to work.
How do I dissolve my two customary marriages before I get into a civil marriage with my new partner?
Since 2000, customary marriages are held to be in community of property. You will need to get legal help and advice from Legal Aid.
I want to submit my UIF claim. Is there a company that can do it on my behalf?
You can submit your claim directly through the UIF Online website.
My late husband worked at Impala Platinum Mine in Springs. How can I find his provident fund?
Contact HR at Impala Platinum to ask them which provident fund your husband belonged to.
I bought a new RDP house from the owner. He has since moved to another province. How can transfer the property to my name?
You should take all the documents you have to the municipality and ask them to help legalise your situation.