Frequently asked Questions and Answers

General Questions

The Fund exists to help members save for retirement and to provide benefits in the event of retirement, disability, or death.

The Fund is overseen by a Board of Trustees who are responsible for governance, compliance, and protecting members’ interests.

The Fund is regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in terms of the Pension Funds Act.

Membership

Membership is typically compulsory for employees in participating companies covered by the collective agreement.

Membership begins once the employer completes the registration and the first contribution is paid to the Fund.

If your new employer also participates in the Fund, your membership continues. Otherwise, you may withdraw or transfer your benefit.

If your new employer also participates in the Fund, your membership continues. Otherwise, you may withdraw or transfer your benefit.

Contributions

Contribution rates are set out in the Fund Rules or collective agreements. Both employee and employer contributions may apply.

The Fund follows Section 13A enforcement procedures to recover outstanding contributions and protect members’ benefits.

Benefits

The Fund typically provides:

  • Retirement benefits
  • Withdrawal benefits
  • Disability benefits (if applicable)
  • Death benefits for dependants/nominees
  • Funeral Benefits

Benefits are payable at:

  • Normal retirement age 60 years
  • Early retirement (subject to rules and employer approval)

The Board conducts a Section 37C investigation to determine the fair distribution of benefits among dependants and nominees.

Claims & Payments

Claims must be submitted through the employer or administrator with the required supporting documents.

Timelines depend on document completeness, employer certification, and verification processes. The Administrator aims to process compliant claims and effect payment in not more than 6 weeks’ time.

Benefits are paid electronically into the member’s verified bank account.

Withdrawals

No. Withdrawals are only allowed when employment ends or under specific rule-permitted circumstances.

Yes. You may transfer to a preservation fund, retirement annuity, or another employer fund.

Fund Administration

The Administrator is appointed by the Board to process contributions, maintain member records, and pay claims and currently SALT Employee Benefits is appointed the Administrator of the Fund.

You must complete the required claim form and submit them via your employer or the Fund administrator.

Communication

Members receive:

  • Benefit statements
  • Member portal
  • SMS notifications
  • Website or portal access
  • WhatsApp

You may request it from the administrator or access it through the member portal or whatsapp.

Complaints

You may submit your complaint to:

  1. The Administrator
  2. The Principal Officer
  3. The Board of Trustees
    If unresolved, you may escalate to the Pension Funds Adjudicator.