Retrenched? Take it one step at a time.
Losing a job is a shock, and the paperwork arrives while you are still processing it. Everything on this page is free, works on your phone, and is here to make sure you get every rand and every benefit you are entitled to. No signup, no sales pitch.
Step 1: Check the package before you sign
The law sets minimums: one week's pay per completed year as severance, plus notice pay and every leave day you have not taken. The first R550 000 of a severance benefit is tax free. Check any offer against the floor before signing a settlement, and know that refusing a reasonable alternative job can forfeit severance.
Severance calculator
The minimum package and the tax on it, in 30 seconds.
Check my package →Leave and notice pay
What your final payslip must include, per the BCEA.
Check final pay →Was the process fair?
Retrenchment requires real consultation. The CCMA basics, honestly told: referrals are free, but resolution takes months, not days.
CCMA guide →Step 2: Claim your UIF immediately
Retrenchment is exactly what the Unemployment Insurance Fund exists for. Benefits run between roughly 38% and 60% of your earnings for up to 12 months, depending on how long you contributed. Ask your employer for your UI-19 on your last day; you claim through uFiling or at a labour centre, and earlier is better.
UIF calculator
Your benefit amount and how many months it lasts, on the official formula.
Calculate my UIF →UIF claim walkthrough
The documents, the process and the common reasons claims stall.
Read the guide →Rebudget quickly
Work out the take home on any new offer, so you can compare fairly.
Take home calculator →Step 3: The next 90 days, money wise
- Do not rush the retirement fund decision: cashing out is taxed after your severance used the tax free band, and the money stops compounding. Get the options in writing before choosing.
- Tell your medical aid and insurers before debit orders bounce; most have bridge options that are cheaper than lapsing.
- Debit order triage: essentials first (home, transport, insurance), then negotiate the rest in writing before missing payments.
- Check your tax: retrenchment years often produce a SARS refund because PAYE assumed a full year of salary.
- Keep every letter, payslip and the settlement agreement in one folder; you will need them for UIF, SARS and any dispute.
And when you are ready to start your own thing, whether that is next month or next year, we will be here with the paperwork sorted at fixed prices. No rush. Look after yourself first.
Free tools are estimates. This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.