“This Is Not Lawful”: Payslip With Low Weekly Wages of R1.4K Sparks Online Debate
- A video showed a man’s frustration and disbelief at a weekly salary payslip that he picked up, surprised that people earn so little
- The clip was shared on the video-streaming app TikTok, where it became a focal point for public discussion on salary expectations and the realities of low-wage work
- The video prompted a range of reactions, with many users feeling the amount was normal or even high, while others expressed concern about companies underpaying employees
Source: TikTok
A local man found a payslip while walking, and when he opened it, he was astonished by the person's weekly wage.
The short clip was shared by TikTok user @sefara.fam, sparking a widespread debate among online commenters about what constituted a fair wage.
The man, TikTok user @sefara.fam, filmed a payslip he found while walking, dated 13 August 2025. The payslip showed a weekly salary of R1,450.95 and deductions of R14.60. He expressed his shock and frustration, questioning how anyone could live on such a small amount.
A controversial payslip sparks salary debate
The man was careful not to reveal the person's name on the payslip, but his genuine shock was clear for all to see. He exclaimed that the amount seemed more like a weekly allowance than a monthly salary, highlighting the harsh realities of low wages for many.
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Source: TikTok
The South African minimum wage as of 2025
South Africa's national minimum wage is currently R28.79 per hour as of 1 March 2025, according to the Department of Employment and Labour. This increase from the previous R27.58 per hour is a legal requirement that applies to all workers, including domestic and farm workers. The minimum wage is designed to protect vulnerable employees and serves as a base below which no worker should be paid, though it is not considered a living wage.
SA discusses the weekly payslip
The video gained significant attention, with a large number of views, likes, and comments. Many comments came from people who were not surprised by the amount on the payslip. Some said the figure was a common monthly salary for them, with some even saying they earned less.
There were a few taxi drivers who revealed their weekly wages of R500, which was a shocking revelation for many viewers. Others said they were disappointed in such companies, asking how people were supposed to survive with such a low income.
User @gedeza said:
"They should have just made a cash send so that he could qualify for 350."
User @Moremadi34 shared:
"In a month, it is R6000, what's wrong with that? He can survive."
User @Ncumisamawushwe Menyatso added:
"No, this is not lawful in South Africa. The minimum wage is R28.79 per hour, effective from 1 March 2025."
User @Ellias Ngejane commented:
"I concur with you, after I checked the details on this payslip, this guy earns R981.00 per week. It is too little for a family man having to cover all the expenses at home, including taxi fare, groceries, buying clothes for kids, etc. The other R400 plus is overtime and night shift allowance."
User @phontsa221230 said:
"No, this is very sad. Some companies need to be closed."
User @Mhimhi Nduh Zuma commented:
"That's my weekly pay, and I'm grateful for it 👏💯."
User @skobonyana said:
"It's better than nothing."
Watch the TikTok video below:
3 Briefly News articles about salaries
- A 33-year-old father of three had social media users abuzz after flexing his R100K total income, joining a viral TikTok salary trend, where locals flex their earnings.
- A 28-year-old mother of one joined an online challenge, revealing she was single and earning R4800, and Mzansi advised her to remain single and focus on getting a better-paying job.
- A Forever Living business owner divided social media after sharing her R500K monthly salary, which shocked many.
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Source: Briefly News
