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].
Can I stay in SA after my ZEP expires if I have a South Africa-born child?
You need an alternative visa to stay in South Africa. If you can't get one, your child will probably have to go back to Zimbabwe with you.
How can I ensure that only I inherit my father's house and not my step-siblings?
If your parents were married in community of property, your mother had the right to leave her share of the house to her other children.
Can I still get my social grant if I inherit money?
Yes, but only if you still pass the means test.
My late father transferred the title deed to his and his girlfriend's names without my mother's knowledge. What can she do?
Because your parents were married in community of property, your mother has claim to 50% of the joint estate and might be able to overturn the transfer.
Can I appeal the Tshiamiso Trust's Medical Certification Panel's findings?
The panel's decision can be taken on review within 30 days, although the process is unclear.
Why is my work telling me to pay a penalty fee to draw my provident fund if I resign without notice?
Depending on your contract, your employer may withhold an amount equal to the period of notice not given.
Where can I get a copy of my divorce certificate?
You can only get a copy of the divorce decree from the High Court in which the decree was issued.
I have been told that I cannot write my matric without an ID but Home Affairs won't issue me one.
It is unconstitutional to be prevented from writing your matric without an ID or other documentation. Your father can make a sworn affidavit to help your ID application.
What will happen to my provident fund if I am sent to prison?
If you are sent to prison, you cannot work and so your employer will dismiss you or take it that you have resigned.
How can I bring my minor children back from Nigeria after their father took them there without my permission?
Nigerian laws are different to ours, but an order from a South African court may help your case.