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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.

Topic: Labour  |  Show questions and answers for all topics

I need help with an oustanding Occupation Specific Dispensation payment.

We suggest that you consult your union if you were a member of a union.

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Can I withdraw the full amount of my pension after early retirement?

If you retire, you can only cash out up to one third of the money in your pension fund. The balance will be paid as fixed sum of money monthly.

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I was shot while working and I did not receive compensation forms. What can I do?

Your employer is legally obliged to assist you. If they don't, you can report them to the labour department.

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Can I dispute how much money the compensation company paid after my late husband was permanently disabled?

Your first step should be to establish from the compensation company how they decided on the amount

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What can I do if my employer deducts money from my wages but does not submit to UIF? The Labour Department can’t help me.

If complaints are reported to the labour department, it is required to investigate and see that the law is followed.

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Can I be fired for smoking weed at home?

It's legal to smoke at home, but employers are allowed to regulate possession and use of dagga by employees.

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Do I lose my UIF unemployment benefits if I claim sickness benefits?

Each time you claim benefits, the UIF cycle stops and then starts again when you return to work and resume paying UIF contributions.

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When can SA Express employees expect to be paid their outstanding monies after the airline's liquidation in 2020?

Workers only receive outstanding payments once all secured creditors of the airline have been paid. This usually takes about 6 to 24 months.

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Can I be financially and medically assisted while waiting for the independent tribunal to decide on my compensation claim?

You can apply for SASSA Temporary Disability Grant while you wait for the outcome of the tribunal.

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Why did my monthly allowance from the Municipality Pension Fund stop after I turned 21?

The pension comes to an end when you turn 22, so you should call the GEPF to ask why it stopped early.

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