Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) whose OWWA membership has expired may still qualify for certain assistance programs.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has confirmed that its Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) can provide financial relief to eligible active and inactive members.
Some returning OFWs may also qualify for livelihood assistance based on their previous membership contributions and circumstances.
However, inactive membership does not automatically qualify an OFW for cash assistance.
Here are the programs worth checking.
Welfare Assistance for Inactive OWWA Members
The OWWA Welfare Assistance Program helps eligible members and their families facing difficulties that are not covered by regular OWWA social benefits.
OWWA identifies five major types of assistance:
- Calamity Assistance: For eligible members and families affected by disasters or emergencies.
- Bereavement Assistance: For qualified families not covered by regular death and burial benefits.
- Disability Assistance: For members who suffered disability due to crimes or accidents.
- Medical Assistance: For illnesses not covered by OWWA’s MEDPlus program.
- Relief Assistance: For certain workers displaced by economic, political, or health-related crises.
The amount and eligibility requirements depend on the applicant’s situation and OWWA’s assessment.
Read the full OWWA Welfare Assistance Program guide for additional information.
Livelihood Assistance for Returning OFWs
Another program worth checking is Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH).
It provides livelihood support for qualified repatriated, displaced, or distressed OWWA members.
OWWA’s published 2025 Citizen’s Charter identifies the following assistance levels:
- Php 5,000: Inactive members with one recorded contribution
- Php 10,000: Inactive members with more than one recorded contribution
- Php 20,000: Active members
The assistance is intended as start-up or additional capital for livelihood activities.
These amounts are from the 2025 charter and should be confirmed with OWWA before applying in 2026.
Applicants must also meet the program’s other requirements.
Can Inactive Members Claim Regular Death Benefits?
Not necessarily.
OWWA’s regular death insurance benefits generally require active membership at the time of the member’s death.
However, eligible families not covered by the regular benefit may be assessed for bereavement assistance under WAP.
These programs have different eligibility rules and should not be treated as interchangeable.
How to Request Financial Assistance
OFWs and their families can begin by following these steps:
- Check previous membership records. Prepare information showing that the OFW was previously registered with OWWA.
- Identify the appropriate program. Explain whether assistance is needed because of illness, disability, bereavement, job displacement, or livelihood difficulties.
- Contact an OWWA office. Ask the Regional Welfare Office for the current application form and document checklist.
- Submit the supporting documents. These may include identification, membership records, proof of employment, medical documents, or evidence of displacement, depending on the program.
- Wait for evaluation. OWWA will determine whether the applicant meets the program requirements.
If the OFW is still employed overseas, they may also review our OWWA membership renewal guide for information about maintaining active coverage.
What If You Have Not Paid OWWA Contributions Recently?
An expired membership does not necessarily mean all forms of assistance are unavailable.
However, some programs require active membership, while others may accept qualified inactive members.
Applicants should not assume they will receive the same benefits as active members.
Those who want to explore other available support can also review our guide to OWWA services and benefits.
What Inactive OFWs Should Do Now: Contact the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office and request an eligibility assessment before spending money on documents or traveling to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can inactive OWWA members receive cash aid?
Yes. Qualified inactive members may receive assistance through WAP or other programs that specifically cover them.
Is there automatic cash assistance for expired membership?
No. Expired membership alone does not establish eligibility for financial assistance.
Can inactive members receive Php 10,000?
Under OWWA’s published 2025 BPBH rules, certain eligible inactive members with more than one recorded contribution could receive Php 10,000 in livelihood assistance. Current program availability and eligibility must be confirmed.
Where should inactive members apply?
Contact the OWWA Regional Welfare Office covering the OFW’s home area or the appropriate OWWA welfare office for assistance.