Member Communication (Scroll down for Articles, Letters, Reports)

Important Fund Information

	What is the change to the life-stage model? The changes to the life-stage model will come into effect on 01 August 2022. Please click here to understand what this change means.
	Understand how your death benefits will be paid upon your death. Click here to access the article.
	“History unfolds itself by strange and unpredictable paths. We have little control over the future; and none at all over the past.” Winston Churchill Access a communication drafted by the Fund's Asset Consultants, Willis Towers Watson, providing insight into the effects of the war in Ukraine on retirement savings by clicking here.
	Please click here for an important announcement regarding the Fund's new Benefits Consulting team, as well as the new Retirement Benefits Consulting services. The University of South Africa Retirement Fund appointed the following two service providers effective April 2022: Momentum Consultants and Actuaries (Pty) Ltd as the Fund's new Benefits Consultants, taking over from Willis Towers Watson. INfund Solutions (Pty) Ltd to provide retirement benefit counselling services, which is a requirement in terms of the default regulations.

The security and protection of your personal information is important to the Fund. For more details, please visit http://unisarf.co.za/unisarf/policies-and-rules

Please read this important notification regarding your premiums for death benefit cover.

Please click here for an important announcement regarding the Fund's Principal Officer.

Everything you need to know about your Fund savings

The UNISA Retirement Fund office receives numerous queries from members requesting Member Credit Account balances, benefit statements and more.

Click here to register on the Alexander Forbes portal to access all your most important information and figures, to better manage and improve your investment planning

Annual Overview

Click here for the 2021 Annual Overview.

Seminars

PRESENTATION 2022 Default Life-stage Model Presentation

PRESENTATION 2021 Retirement Planning Seminar Presentation

PRESENTATION 2019 Retirement Planning Seminar Presentation	HANDOUT 2019 Retirement Planning Seminar Handout	VIDEO 2019 Retirement Planning Seminar Video

PRESENTATION 2018 Retirement Planning Seminar Presentation	HANDOUT 2018 Retirement Planning Seminar Handout	VIDEO 2018 Retirement Planning Seminar Video

Latest Newsletter

		A word from your Principal Officer The first quarter of 2022 has certainly started off with many new challenges and obstacles, both locally and internationally. However, not all is doom and gloom. Please click here to read what insight the Fund’s Principal Officer has shared.
		Click here for the May 2021 newsletter.

Articles

		Managing debt in times of crisis Have you found yourself juggling more financial responsibilities than usual lately? If so, you are not alone. Let's look at both simple and detailed options to defeat the burden of debt.
		Getting out of the financial woods of the pandemic Millions of South Africans were negatively affected by the pandemic's impact on the economy. Let's discuss how to get out of the financial woods during the pandemic.
		Have you updated ALL your beneficiaries? Do you know that you might have multiple benefits for which you need to nominate beneficiaries? Let’s discuss Fund Death Benefits, Employer Death Benefits and Funeral Benefits.
		The South African National Budget 2022 On 23 February Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his first Budget Speech. In this article, we take a look at the most important parts of the budget, including topics around sin taxes, fuel prices, Covid-19 and changes in the retirement fund industry.
		Unclaimed benefits in the retirement fund industry Every year, pension boards and legislative bodies sit with millions of rands in unclaimed benefits. According to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), 4.5 million South Africans have unclaimed benefits, to the value of R44.9 billion.
		Questions to ask your financial advisor It can be challenging to decide on the most important issues to discuss with your advisor. Let’s look at some of the ways you can ensure that you make the most out of any consultation you have with a registered financial advisor.
		Speaking to yourself to make better decisions Studies show that thinking and speaking of oneself in the third person increases wisdom and has a positive effect on one's mental state. This can be a major advantage when making important financial decisions about your future.
		The race to retirement Preparing for retirement is like preparing for one of the longest marathons of our lives. Plan well in order to finish the race in the time you hope, and with the results you envisioned.
		Wise up about risk and your investments Let's explore how risk levels change depending on your age and proximity to retirement, in order to equip you with a better understanding of how to mitigate these risks.
		Adjust your attitude, adjust your bank balance Our attitude towards handling money is often subconscious, but it still affects our financial decisions. Being mindful of your Money Attitude can help you save smarter for the future.
		Simple financial tips for kids Some of our most consistent financial habits our shaped by the relationship we have with money as children. Here are simple steps to teach children about money and saving.
		Annuitisation of Provident Funds Some very important changes are hitting the retirement fund landscape on 1 March 2021. Let's look at the main changes, their impact on your savings, and some frequently asked questions.
		5 ways to make the most of Compound Interest Compound interest is one of the often-neglected gold mines of the financial world. It’s vital to know how your interest-bearing products work in order to capitalise on them.
		The Psychology Behind Risk and Investing Pt 2 In this article, we help you with recognise some more of the psychological biases that could be influencing your financial and investment decisions.
		The Psychology Behind Risk and Investing In this article, we take a look at the psychology behind risk and investing, in order to help you understand the ways in which emotions can affect good decision-making
		Did you start saving for retirement late? You're not alone, and it's not too late. These helpful tips will provide some guidance on how to increase your savings pool for retirement.
		Money tips for single parents Let's take a look at some simple ways for single parents to regain control of their finances, involve their children in money management and keep up with the changing digital landscape.
		Top Financial Management Apps Managing your finances for the long-term can be an intimidating task. These four financial management apps were designed to make money matters a breeze for you.
		Investments: Is it worth it to follow the crowd? Group mentality can be very tempting for you as an investor. Protect yourself from making big investment mistakes by remembering these important tips.
		Practical financial literacy tips for kids Parents can equip children with the knowledge and skills they need to be money-wise. Consider these important points when preparing your children for a healthy financial future.
		Financial advice from loved ones? Taking financial advice from family and friends can be risky business. Find out how to filter through information in order to make the best possible long-term financial plans for yourself.
		COVID-19: Reliable resources Find reliable resources and important information to help you stay safe and informed. It's vital to plan wisely and remain focused on your long-term goals.
		Wealth isn’t just about income Building wealth is more about the choices you make with the money you have. Find out how to cultivate healthy financial habits with long-term benefits.
		Five tips for staying on top of credit January is a great time to start working on managing and clearing your credit. Find out how to reduce your debts and avoid unnecessary penalties.
		UPDATE: Prescribed assets and the retirement fund industry Before you panic, read this article to stay informed and prevent yourself from falling prey to false information and unnecessary alarm.
		The four elements of personal finances Fire, Water, Air and Earth. Find out what the 4 financial equivalents to these elements are and how they can possibly cause havoc if you are not prepared.
		The basics of Inheritance Tax If you own property in South Africa, then the South African inheritance laws apply to you. Find out what they are and how they may affect you.
		Prescribed assets and the pension industry Before you panic, read this article to stay informed and prevent yourself from falling prey to false information and unnecessary alarm.
		Your Last Will and Testament Your Will is one of the most important legal contracts you can create to ensure your loved ones are cared for and your money is distributed fairly.
		Time is money - investing for the long term One of the most important factors that will affect your investment decision-making is your time horizon. This will determine the type of investments you should choose, whether you should make a switch and assist you in reaching your retirement goals.
		Setting goals the SMART way! Say goodbye to unachieved goals and a big hello to a new achieving you! Reach your goals the SMART way.
		Fail-safe rules for managing your finances! If you’ve made some savings blunders in the past, there’s no need to panic. It’s never too late to start fresh on your road to financial recovery.
		Big savings blunders you may be making! Don’t let silly mistakes ruin your savings goals. It’s never too late to do the right thing.
		Retiring soon - What are your options? - Difference between Life and Living Annuities - Why consider an In-Fund Annuity?
		Additional Retirement Saving Contributions Read up on the benefits of contributing more, how much extra you can contribute and what you should look out for when doing so. It's a MUST READ!
		Have you considered tax-free savings? A tax-free savings account can supplement your existing retirement plan. Learn how you can save more!
		Understanding Compound Interest Compounding can be a very powerful tool to create wealth over time. All you need is some patience and discipline and compound interest will do the rest.
		A 5-step Moneyfesto If your new year’s savings resolutions did not go as planned, fear not. You can try again with the following 5 simple and attainable goals. It’s all about having a positive frame of mind!
		Why is it important to have a Will? Find out more about the importance of having a Will and what its legal implications are. During National Wills week, you can get a free Will from an attorney. Don't miss out!
		How divorce can affect your retirement benefits Divorce is never easy, but there are ways to make the process as smooth as possible.
		Spice up your budget planning Discover tips on how to manage your budget better.
		Be smart about tax Pay less tax and allow the power of compound interest to grow your money.
		How does South Africa's budget affect yours? Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba delivered a message of restoration in his 2018 budget speech. Here’s a brief summary of how ordinary South Africans will be affected.
		How to gain financial independence as a young adult One’s first payday marks the first day towards becoming a financially independent adult. Here are four ‘getting real’ tips new employees need to consider while holding that payslip.
		Retiring soon? It pays to think ahead Thinking about retirement can be overwhelming at times, especially when it comes to picking an annuity (pension) that is right for you. We take a look at the things you need to consider.