Bargaining Council Updates: Foreign National Information, KZN Sick Benefit Fund & HBSI Pension Fund
Sick Benefit Fund (KZN): Scheme B
On 1 July 2022, with the move to a more flexible approach which allows members of the Sick Benefit Fund (KZN) to consult a GP of their choice, members were allocated an annual amount (R1100) that may be claimed in respect of a maximum of four GP consultations/visits per annum i.e., R275.00 per visit/consultation.
Please be advised that in the case of members of Scheme B, the annual amount allocated to members (per family) has been increased to R1650 that may be claimed in respect of a maximum of six GP consultations/visits per annum i.e., R275.00 per visit/consultation. This will be effective from 1 October 2022.
Foreign Nationals: Payment of Pension Benefits
Earlier this month, the Department of Home Affairs announced that holders of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) would now have until June 2023 to apply for visas. This provides for an extension of six months on the expiry of the ZEPs, which had an initial expiry date of 31 December 2022.
However, questions remain regarding pension fund withdrawals by members who are not South African.
VERSO prepared a newsletter that answers some of the questions in this regard. The newsletter was prepared prior to the six months’ extension but the questions and answers remain pertinent. The newsletter can be accessed through this LINK
For those of you who do not receive your Returns electronically you can access the document on the Council’s website www.hcsbc.co.za
HBSI Pension Fund: Benefit Statements
Benefit Statements have been sent to HBSI members’ email or postal addresses, where available. Members of the HBSI who have not received their benefit statements are kindly requested to contact the front office on hbsipension@prevue.co.za
Email Correspondence vs Post - Update
We are again appealing to all establishments who have previously elected to receive their Returns by way of post, to opt for email correspondence. The Council is considering the introduction of a postage charge going forward. The change to your option can be notified to the Council by way of an email to amend@hcsbc.co.za
National Wills Week
National Wills Week was held from 12 to 16 September this year. Please see attached Newsletter, which explains why a will is so important.
For those of you who do not receive your Returns electronically you can access the document on the Council’s website www.hcsbc.co.za
Please consult the Council’s WEBSITE for the contact details of Agents in your area.
For more information, contact: www.hcsbc.co.za
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