Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email [email protected].

Is it possible to apply for an ID for the first time without a parent?

It may be possible if you can get a certified copy of their ID.

Home Affairs Youth

How can I change my marriage from being in community of property to be out of community of property?

You and your spouse can jointly apply to the high court for permission.

What can I do if my employer hasn't submitted my provident fund claim forms and is avoiding me?

Send a registered letter to the Trustees of the Fund informing them of the matter.

Finance Labour Unemployment

What can I do if I don't qualify for government housing and have no source of income?

First claim your UIF, if you qualify. Then apply for the new Covid-19 SRD grant.

Basic Income Grant Housing Sassa Social Grants

Can you marry someone under customary law if you are already married under civil law to someone else?

No, the law is very clear on this.

Customary marriage Women's legal centre

Can I get a FLISP subsidy if I inherited my father's property?

No, to qualify for FLISP you must be a first-time homeowner.

Housing

Can you make a will that allows beneficiaries to access the accounts even before the estate is wound up?

Unfortunately not. It is a legal requirement for your accounts to be frozen upon your death.

Inheritance

I get an error code on my birth certificate when I try to apply for tertiary education. Is there some way around this?

You will likely need a late registration of birth certificate but you can apply for a temporary ID in the meantime.

Education Home Affairs Tertiary Education Youth

Someone has been illegally renting their CTCHC house to me and now we are being evicted. Please help!

You cannot be evicted during lockdown, but maybe you should apply for a Community Residential Unit in the meantime.

Housing How to deal with eviction

I want to escape my abusive partner and get an RDP house.

There are a few organisations that offer assistance, shelter, counselling, legal support and educational programmes

Assault Housing Youth