If you’re a qualified employee-member, self-employed (SE), voluntary member (VM), or land-based Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) under the Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines, you can now apply for retirement benefits online through the My.SSS portal following the guidelines set by Circular No. 2021-021 dated December 28, 2021. This guide provides a step-by-step process for filing a retirement claim, including special cases that require Over-the-Counter (OTC) filing.
📌 Filing Your Retirement Claim Online
Step 1: Log in to My.SSS Portal
- Go to My.SSS Portal.
- Enter your user ID and password.
- Click on E-Services and select Apply for Retirement Benefit.
Step 2: Fill Out the Retirement Claim Application (RCA)
- Complete the required information accurately.
- Upload the necessary supporting documents.
Step 3: Select Your Mode of Disbursement
- Choose from any of the following:
- Bank account under PESONet-participating banks
- Electronic wallets (Maya or GCash)
- Pick-up arrangement via Remittance Transfer Companies (RTCs) or Cash Payout Outlets (CPOs)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Review the information and submit the form.
- Wait for confirmation via SMS or email.
📌 Special Cases for Over-the-Counter (OTC) Filing
In some cases, members may still opt to file their retirement claims through OTC filing at an SSS branch. These cases include:
✅ Member has a dependent child/children.
✅ Member is incapacitated, under guardianship, or confined in an institution (penitentiary, correctional institution, or rehabilitation center).
✅ Application under Portability Law or Bilateral Social Security Agreements.
✅ Outstanding Loan Balances under the following programs:
- Stock Investment Loan Program (SILP)
- Privatization Loan Program
- Educational Loan
- Vocational Technology Loan
- Salary/Calamity Loan or Salary Loan Early Renewal Program (SLERP)
📌 Pre-Requisites for OTC Filing
To be eligible for OTC filing, members must:
✅ Be registered on the SSS Website.
✅ Have an approved disbursement account through the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM).
⚠️ Exception: Members confined in applicable institutions are exempted from these requirements.
📌 Required Documents for Retirement Claim Application
Basic Documentary Requirements
-
Retirement Claim Application (RCA) or RCA under Portability Law (1 original copy).
-
Member’s/Claimant’s Photo and Signature Card, if the member or guardian has not been issued a UMID card (1 original copy).
-
Proof of Disbursement Account via:
- PESONet bank account
- Passbook, ATM card, or Bank Certificate/Statement (issued within 3 months)
- Electronic wallet (Maya or GCash)
- Remittance Transfer Companies (RTCs) or Cash Payout Outlets (CPOs)
-
Member’s Identification Cards/Documents
- Primary ID: UMID Card (SSS/GSIS) or any government-issued ID with photo and signature.
- If primary ID is unavailable: Two (2) valid IDs with signature, one of which must have a photo.
📌 Additional Supporting Documents for Special Cases
✅ If Member is Below 65 Years Old:
- For Employed/Household Helper: Certificate of separation from employer(s) or SSS Affidavit of Separation from Employment.
- For Self-Employed: Certificate of non-renewal of business or SSS Affidavit of Cessation of Self-Employment.
- For OFW, Voluntary Member, or Technical Retirement: No additional proof of separation is required.
📌 Additional Documents for Specific Cases
✅ For Underground/Surface Mineworkers:
- Certification from the employer with job description and period of employment.
- Affidavit from two (2) co-employees attesting to the nature of work.
✅ For Racehorse Jockeys:
- Certification from the employer licensed by PHILRACOM indicating employment period.
✅ If Filed by Authorized Representative:
- Original primary ID or two (2) valid IDs with signature.
- Original Letter of Authority (LOA) or Special Power of Attorney (SPA).
📌 List of Additional Documentary Requirements
✅ For Members with Dependent Children:
- Birth certificates of dependent children issued by the PSA or LCR.
- For children born abroad, a Birth Certificate issued by a foreign government or Report of Birth issued by the Philippine Embassy.
✅ For Married Members:
- Marriage certificate issued by PSA or LCR.
- If married abroad, a Marriage Certificate issued by a foreign government or Report of Marriage.
✅ For Incapacitated Members Under Guardianship:
- Medical certificate issued within three (3) months prior to filing.
- In-Trust-For (ITF) Account for the dependent.
📌 Important Reminders:
✅ Documents issued in a foreign country should have English translation if necessary.
✅ Supporting documents can be submitted as certified true copies if filed abroad.
📌 How to Enroll a Disbursement Account in DAEM
Before filing for retirement benefits, members must have an approved disbursement account through the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM). Follow these steps:
- Log in to My.SSS portal.
- Select E-Services and click on Disbursement Account Enrollment Module.
- Choose your preferred mode of disbursement and upload the required documents.
- Submit your application.
📌 Final Thoughts
Filing your retirement claim with the SSS has become more convenient through the My.SSS portal, but special cases may still require OTC filing. Ensure that you have the necessary documents and meet the requirements before applying to avoid delays. If you need assistance, you can visit the nearest SSS branch or contact the SSS hotline at 1455.
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check your supporting documents to ensure that all required copies are complete and up to date. This helps prevent delays in processing your retirement claim.