The Annual Pensioners Information Revalidation (APIR) is a yearly requirement for GSIS pensioners to confirm their active status.
This process helps make sure that the pension is received by the rightful beneficiary, protecting it from fraudulent claims and safeguarding the pension fund.
Previously known as the Annual Renewal of Active Status (ARAS), APIR was reintroduced by GSIS in 2011 to simplify how pensioners verify their eligibility.
Pensioners must complete the APIR process during their birth month to avoid suspension of their pension benefits.
If they miss this, pension payments will be halted until the pensioner complies with APIR.
Who Needs to Comply with APIR?
APIR is a requirement for the following pensioners:
- Old-Age Pensioners: Retired members receiving monthly pensions after years of service.
- Survivorship Pensioners: Beneficiaries of deceased GSIS members receiving survivorship benefits.
Completing the APIR process is important to maintain access to your pension and to avoid any delays in your payments.
Why APIR Matters
APIR offers several key benefits to both pensioners and GSIS:
- It guarantees that pension payments go to the rightful recipients.
- It protects pensioners from fraudulent claims by individuals who may attempt to access benefits that don’t belong to them.
- It helps GSIS keep pensioners’ information updated and accurate, contributing to a more reliable pension system.
By completing APIR, pensioners protect their financial security and help GSIS keep the pension system fair for everyone.
How to Complete the APIR Process
GSIS offers multiple ways for pensioners to complete their APIR, making it accessible regardless of location or circumstance.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process:
1. APIR via GSIS Touch (Mobile App)
GSIS has made it convenient for pensioners to complete their APIR using the GSIS Touch app.
- Step 1: Download the GSIS Touch app from your mobile app store.
- Step 2: Select the APIR option on the home screen.
- Step 3: Enter your Business Partner Number (BP Number) and Date of Birth.
- Step 4: Choose APIR via Facial Authentication to verify your identity.
- Step 5: Read and accept the Terms and Conditions. For Surviving Spouses, complete the Self-Declaration Form.
- Step 6: Follow the selfie guidelines for a smooth process, ensuring you follow the tips provided.
The GSIS Touch app offers a user-friendly, remote method for pensioners who may have difficulty traveling to GSIS branches.
2. Manual APIR at GSIS Offices
For pensioners who prefer face-to-face interactions, GSIS branches and service desks offer manual APIR processing.
- Step 1: Visit your nearest GSIS branch or service desk and get a queue number.
- Step 2: Present your UMID eCard or two valid government IDs.
- Step 3: Survivorship pensioners should also submit the Self-Declaration of Surviving Spouse form.
Once these steps are completed, your pension status will be renewed, and you can continue receiving your payments without interruption.
3. APIR via SMS
GSIS allows pensioners to comply with APIR via SMS.
- Send a text message to your GSIS handling branch with the following information:
- Full name (Surname, First Name, Middle Name)
- Date of birth
- Preferred online platform for the interview (e.g., Viber, FB Messenger, Skype, Zoom)
Include all required contact details to make the process smooth.
4. APIR via Email
Another convenient method is submitting your APIR via email, especially for those based abroad.
Here’s how:
- Step 1: In the Subject Line of your email, use this format: APIR (Birth Month of Pensioner) / (Surname_First Name_Middle Name).
- Step 2: Include your full name, date of birth, and your preferred platform for the interview (e.g., Viber, FB Messenger, Skype, or Zoom).
- Step 3: Attach a photo of your UMID card, temporary eCard, or two valid IDs.
- Step 4: For survivorship pensioners, submit the Self-Declaration of Surviving Spouse form.
- Step 5: PTD pensioners should attach the Medical Progress Report.
Pensioners based abroad should send their APIR to pensionglobal@gsis.gov.ph or gsiscares@gsis.gov.ph to ensure compliance.
What Happens If You Don’t Complete APIR?
Failing to complete the APIR process within your birth month will result in the suspension of your pension benefits.
Your pension will only resume once you successfully complete the APIR process.
To avoid any interruption in your pension payments, it’s important to make sure you fulfill this requirement on time.
Tips for a Smooth APIR Process
- Have your UMID eCard or valid IDs ready before starting the APIR process.
- If using the GSIS Touch app, follow the selfie guidelines carefully for a successful submission.
- For manual APIR, check the operating hours and requirements of your nearest GSIS branch before your visit.
- For email or SMS submissions, make sure your contact details are accurate and up to date to avoid delays.
Application Form
The GSIS APIR Form is a key document that helps pensioners keep their pension benefits uninterrupted.
This form is part of the Annual Pensioners Information Revalidation (APIR) process, which pensioners need to complete to confirm their active status and avoid the suspension of their pension.
You can easily download the form from the official GSIS website through this link: 2024 GSIS APIR Form.
To apply, fill out the form, attach a copy of your UMID eCard or two valid government-issued IDs, and submit it to GSIS.
You have various options to submit: over-the-counter at a GSIS branch, through email, or by using the GSIS Touch app for your convenience.
Conclusion
The Annual Pensioners Information Revalidation (APIR) is an essential task for GSIS pensioners to maintain their pension benefits.
Whether done through a mobile app, in person, or remotely via email, GSIS has provided multiple ways to comply, making the process accessible and convenient for all pensioners.
By completing the APIR on time, you secure your pension and avoid any disruption in your financial support.
Stay informed, stay proactive, and complete your APIR to protect your benefits for the years to come.