You can check your UIF status three ways: log in to UIF Online at uifonline.labour.gov.za, dial 134843# for a free USSD check, or call the UIF Call Centre on 0800 030 007. All three show the same underlying claim, so use whichever is easiest to reach right now. If you claimed before 20 May 2026 on the old uFiling site, your status may take longer to appear while your record finishes moving across, so check by phone if the online option shows nothing yet.
Three ways to check, and when to use each
UIF Online. Best if you have data and want the full picture, including your reference number, claim history and any notes on your file. Log in with the details you used to apply, then open your claim to see its current status.
USSD: 134843#. Best if you’re out of data or on a basic phone. This is free on any network. Dial the code, follow the menu, and enter your ID number when asked. The menu also covers payment continuation and general enquiries, not just status.
Call Centre: 0800 030 007. Best if your status is confusing or hasn’t moved in weeks and you want to speak to a person. Lines are open weekdays from 07:30 to 16:00. Have your ID number and, if you have one, your UIF reference number ready before you call.
WhatsApp: 082 046 8553. UIF also runs a WhatsApp line where you can send your reference number and ID number to a support representative. Never send your password or PIN over WhatsApp, by email, or to anyone claiming to be UIF staff who contacts you first.
[VERIFY: a small number of secondary sources list an additional UIF call centre number, 0800 843 843, separate from the 0800 030 007 number confirmed on the official uFiling and UIF Online sites. Confirm which is current before publishing.]
What each status means
Application received. Your claim is in the system and you have a case or reference number. Keep this number for every follow-up.
Sent to Assessor. An assessor has been allocated to your file and is checking it. Once your file is complete, the official turnaround time is 15 working days for unemployment claims and 5 working days for maternity claims. If your file is missing something, this step takes longer, since the clock only really starts once everything is in.
Outstanding documentation. Something is missing, usually your UI-19, a payslip, or proof of banking. On UIF Online you should be able to upload the missing document directly through your profile rather than needing to fax it in. [VERIFY: confirm the exact document upload process inside UIF Online, since older guidance for uFiling referred to faxing documents to the UIF, which shouldn’t apply to the new platform.]
Payment sent for processing. Your claim has been approved and moved to the payment stage. This is a good sign, but it isn’t the same as money in your account yet.
Paid. Your payment has been processed and sent to your bank account. If your status shows paid but nothing has landed after a few working days, that’s usually a banking detail mismatch rather than a missing payment. Contact the call centre with your ID number and ask them to check your banking details against your claim.
Rejected. Your claim was declined. Ask for the reason in writing or note it down when you call. If you disagree with the decision, you can appeal, and your local Labour Centre can tell you the current appeal process and any deadline that applies to your case.
If your status hasn’t changed in a while
Check these in order, since the first two cause most delays.
- Confirm your employer actually submitted your final UIF declaration. Many stalled claims trace back to an employer who hasn’t declared, not an error on your side.
- Confirm your banking details match your ID exactly, including your full name as it appears on your bank account.
- Confirm you’ve signed for continuation if your claim was already approved. A missed monthly sign-in pauses payments and can look like a stalled claim.
- If all of that checks out, call 0800 030 007 and ask for a direct update on your case number, rather than resubmitting a new claim.
For a full breakdown of realistic waiting periods at each stage, see our guide on how long UIF takes to pay out.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my UIF status?
Once a week is enough for most people. Checking daily won’t speed up processing, and the status usually only changes after an assessor has actually worked on your file.
My status says “Sent to Assessor” for weeks. Is that normal?
It can be, especially if your file was incomplete when it was first assigned. If it’s been longer than the 15-day (unemployment) or 5-day (maternity) turnaround since your file was marked complete, call the centre and ask for a specific update.
Can I check someone else’s UIF status for them?
Generally no. UIF only discusses a claim with the ID number holder, for privacy reasons. A family member can assist by phone if the claimant is present or has given clear permission, but the account itself is personal.
What does “paid” mean if I haven’t received the money?
It means UIF has processed and sent the payment. If it hasn’t reflected after a few working days, the most common cause is a mismatch between your banking details and your ID.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. If your claim has been rejected and you believe that’s wrong, get advice from your nearest Labour Centre or a trade union before your appeal window closes.
Last checked: July 2026.