Domestic workers could qualify for these benefits, SASSA grants

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In South Africa, there are over 860 000 domestic workers, this is according to Stats South Africa’s last Quarterly Labour Force Survey for 2024.

Despite the high number of domestic workers, Stats SA revealed that they have the lowest median salaries in the country.

The new National Minimum Wage came into effect on 1 March 2025. Here are the benefits domestic workers could qualify for that they should know about.

DOMESTIC WORKER EARNINGS

The South African reported on 5 February 2025 that the Department of Employment and Labour gazetted the new National Minimum Wage effective Saturday, 1 March 2025.

The minimum wage saw an increase of 4.4%, moving from R27.58 to R28.79 from March. This means domestic workers are now entitled to a minimum wage of R1 295.55 weekly for a 45-hour work week. It translates to a monthly amount of about R5 613.62.

BENEFITS DOMESTIC WORKERS COULD QUALIFY FOR

There are benefits domestic workers could qualify for even if they work part time, reported IOL. A labour law expert told the publication that employers of domestic workers have legal responsibilities towards them even if they work just once a week.

According to the expert, Stuart MacGregor, those who fall under this category include cleaners, gardeners, drivers, dog walkers and caregivers.

Non-compliance to the labour laws can result in serious consequences. Employers could face hefty fines and penalties which can range from R10 000 to R50 000.

The Department of Employment and Labour has gazetted the new National Minimum Wage, effective 1 March 2025. Image: Pixabay

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT AND UIF

These workers should also be given an employment contract as well as a job description. Furthermore, they should be registered with the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) through the Department of Labour.

“It is mandatory to furnish domestic workers with employment contracts and job descriptions if they work 24 hours or more monthly, ensuring transparency and clarity regarding roles and responsibilities,” MacGregor explained.

RIGHT TO PAID LEAVE

Domestic employees also have a right to paid leave. “If it is general leave, for example, it is calculated based on one day’s leave for every 17 days worked, regardless of the number of days worked per week,” said MacGregor.

DOMESTIC WORKERS COULD QUALIFY FOR SASSA GRANT

Domestic staff could also qualify for some SASSA grants. These can help them supplement their monthly wage from their job. The grants they can apply for are the following: