GEPF Resignation payout

This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits available upon resignation, the options for payout, and the application process. Whether you’re considering resigning or just curious about the process, this guide will help clarify your options and obligations.

Benefits on Resignation

Upon resignation, members can choose between two options for their GEPF resignation payout:

  1. Cash Resignation Benefit: This option allows members to receive a cash lump sum payment deposited directly into their bank account.
  2. Transfer to an Approved Pension Preservation Fund: This option enables members to transfer their pension benefit into an approved fund, ensuring that they continue to save for retirement while deferring tax payments.

Option 1: Cash Resignation Benefit

If a member opts for a cash resignation benefit, the following steps and documentation are required:

How to Apply for the Cash Resignation Benefit

  1. Documents Required:
    • A certified copy of the member’s bar-coded ID or valid passport (not older than six months).
    • A completed Personal Details form (Z864).
    • A completed Banking Details form (Z894).
    • A completed Resignation Choice form (only for resignation, not discharge).
    • For married members, a certified copy of the marriage certificate.
    • If divorced, the divorce order and settlement agreement, along with a certified copy of the ex-spouse’s bar-coded ID and their Banking Details form if applicable.
    • Certified copies of birth certificates for children, if any.
  2. Submission: The Human Resources (HR) department must complete the Withdrawal from Fund Application form (Z102) and submit it along with all required documents to GEPF.

Once processed, members will receive a cash lump sum, after tax deductions, deposited into their bank account.

Option 2: Transferring to an Approved Pension Preservation Fund

Opting to transfer the resignation benefit to a pension preservation fund can be advantageous. By choosing this route, members can avoid immediate tax implications, as tax is deferred until they eventually withdraw funds from the new pension preservation fund.

Advantages of a Pension Preservation Fund

  • Retirement Savings: Members are required to keep at least two-thirds of the transferred amount until retirement, ensuring long-term financial security.
  • Tax Benefits: No immediate tax is payable upon transfer.

How to Transfer to an Approved Pension Preservation Fund

To facilitate a transfer, the following documentation is required:

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  1. Documents Required:
    • A certified copy of the member’s bar-coded ID or valid passport (not older than six months).
    • A completed Transfer Application form (Z1525) signed by the member and a representative of the new pension fund.
    • A completed Personal Details form (Z864).
    • A completed Resignation Choice form (only for resignation).
    • A certified copy of the marriage certificate for married members.
    • Divorce-related documents, as mentioned in the cash benefit section.
    • Certified copies of birth certificates for children, if any.
  2. Submission: Similar to the cash benefit, the HR department must complete the Withdrawal from Fund Application form (Z102) and submit it with all other documentation to the GEPF.

 

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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