Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Principal Officer's Office sees members by appointment, so we can prepare for your specific query.
How can I book an appointment with the Fund office?
- Complete the contact form at the bottom left of this web page. Your subject should be "Appointment request”. Include your ID number, reason for visit, and preferred dates.
- The office will acknowledge the request within 72 hours, with the date, time, venue or virtual link, who you will meet, and a list of what to bring. You can reschedule or cancel by replying to the confirmation.
- Should you require an appointment with a specific person, see the contact information of the various representatives at the bottom right of this web page.
- Benefit statements, forms and general questions must be directed to the Administrator Help Desk.
What can I use the AF Connect WhatsApp line for?
WhatsApp "Help" 060 043 9601 to:
- Request a benefit statement or tax certificate
- Request a claims summary or status
- Register on AF Connect or reset your password
How do I request a savings pot claim?
To view the step-by-step guide on how to submit a claim click here.
To watch a demonstration of how to claim click here.
How much tax do I pay on a savings pot claim?
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) treats a savings pot withdrawal as extra income for that tax year. So, it’s taxed the same way as money you earn from your job. This is done using PAYE tax tables. You can view the current tax tables at https://www.sars.gov.za/tax-rates/income-tax/rates-of-tax-for-individuals/
Your withdrawal amount is added to all the income you already earned in that year.
SARS then applies your marginal tax rate. When the extra income from your withdrawal pushes your income into a higher tax bracket, you pay more tax on the amount above the threshold.
How do I update my beneficiaries?
Go to https://unisarf.co.za/unisarf/forms and download the Expression of Wishes Form, Funeral Beneficiary Nomination Form and Group Life Nomination of Beneficiary Form. The forms are electronically fillable.
Living Annuitants have a separate, clearly labelled form. Email the completed forms to your HR Practitioner. DO NOT update your beneficiaries on AF Connect.
Why should I keep my beneficiary details up to date?
If your circumstances change (marriage, divorce, a new child, or the death of a nominated person), your nomination may no longer reflect your wishes. Please review your forms after any major life event.
Will my nominated beneficiaries automatically receive my death benefit?
For your funeral and life cover, the nominated benfnciries on a valid nomination will be paid as per your instruction. However for your retirement benefit, under section 37C of the Pension Funds Act, the Board of Trustees must investigate who your dependants are and distribute the benefit fairly. Your nomination is an important guide to your wishes, but it does not bind the Board.
How do I update my contact details?
Please make sure your email address and mobile number are current by letting HR and Payroll know if there are any changes.
What are my risk benefits?
Your risk benefits cover death, funeral, and disability. Please view the Annexure B at the end of the latest Annual Report for a summary of these benefits: https://unisarf.co.za/unisarf/annual-overview
What must I do if I have a Divorce Order against my Fund benefit?
Please go to https://unisarf.co.za/unisarf/divorce-orders to see the requirements.
When should I start planning for retirement?
As soon as possible. Even if retirement is many years away, an annual look at your annual benefit statement and projection statement helps you see whether you are on track. We recommend a closer review, including a session with the Retirement Benefit Counselling team, at least five years before your planned retirement date.
When can I retire?
The Fund's normal retirement age is 65 years. You may also be able to retire earlier, from age 55 without any penalty.
How much money will I need in retirement?
This depends on your lifestyle, debts, dependants and other income. Many advisers use roughly 70% of your final salary as a rough guide to a comfortable income, but your own number may be higher or lower. The retirement benefits counselling team can help you work out where you stand.
Who can I ask to explain my benefits and options?
The Retirement Benefit Counselling team of INfund Solutions (Pty) Ltd team members can be contacted by sending an email to info@infund.co.za or by calling 012 880 5982.