The Social Security System (SSS) offers a valuable program for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), allowing them to continue contributing to their SSS membership while working abroad.
This program is designed to help OFWs maintain their social security benefits, including retirement, disability, and death benefits, even when they are not in the Philippines.
There is no extra cost to continue your SSS membership as an OFW, but you must follow the same contribution structure as other members, with a minimum monthly contribution based on the Monthly Salary Credit (MSC).
OFWs also have access to exclusive benefits like the SSS Flexi Fund, a savings option that allows for additional contributions on top of regular SSS payments.
By taking advantage of this program, OFWs can secure their financial future and maintain access to important benefits.
Methods for Paying SSS Contributions from Abroad
There are several convenient ways for OFWs to pay their SSS contributions while abroad.
Here are your options:
- Accredited Overseas E-Payment Collection Centers
Many countries have accredited payment centers where you can personally remit your SSS contributions.
These include banks, remittance centers, and money exchange centers.
It’s important to check if these centers are SSS-accredited before making any payments.
This method is widely available in countries with a large population of OFWs.
- Assign a Representative in the Philippines
You can also assign a family member or trusted relative back home to make your SSS payments on your behalf.
They can visit any SSS branch or an accredited collection center in the Philippines to pay your contributions.
Be sure they are using your correct SS Number and that they mark your membership type as OFW on the payment form.
- Online Payment Services
For a more direct option, OFWs can use online payment services.
The SSS website offers payment options through BancNet and UnionBank, which allows you to pay your contributions using your bank account.
This method is convenient for those who prefer handling payments digitally and avoiding in-person transactions.
Maintaining your SSS contributions while working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to make sure your payments are up to date and to continue enjoying your SSS benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide for SSS Contribution Payment Abroad
Step 1: Generate Your Payment Reference Number (PRN)
Before making any payment, you will need to generate your Payment Reference Number (PRN).
This number is required for every contribution payment and can be obtained through various channels:
- My.SSS Account: Log in to your online SSS account and access your PRN.
- SSS Mobile App: Download the app and generate your PRN from there.
- Text Message, Email, or Hotline: You can request your PRN via these methods.
- Payment Collecting Partners: Certain remittance agents like Iremit, Ventaja, or AUB can also provide your PRN.
Once you have your PRN, you’re ready to choose your preferred payment method.
Step 2: Choose Your Payment Method
There are several ways to pay your SSS contributions from abroad.
Choose the option that works best for you:
- Accredited Overseas E-Payment Collection Centers
Many countries have SSS-accredited collection centers, including banks, remittance centers, and money exchange centers.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Locate a Center: Find an accredited payment center near you.
- Bring Your Documents: You will need your SSS number, PRN, and the amount due. Make sure to have any identification required by the collection center.
- Make the Payment: Follow the center’s procedures to complete your contribution payment.
- Assign a Representative in the Philippines
If you cannot make the payment yourself, you can authorize someone in the Philippines to do it for you.
Here’s how:
- Choose a Representative: You can assign a family member, relative, or trusted friend.
- Provide the Necessary Details: Give your representative your SSS number, PRN, and specific payment instructions.
- Make sure They Know the Schedule: Make sure they are aware of payment deadlines and procedures.
- Online Payment Services
For those who prefer the convenience of paying online, the SSS offers BancNet and UnionBank as payment options.
Follow these steps:
- Have a Philippine Bank Account: You’ll need an account linked to BancNet or UnionBank.
- Log In: Use your My.SSS account or mobile app to generate your PRN.
- Follow the Payment Instructions: Complete the payment process using the bank’s online portal.
- Paymaya (Debit/Credit Card)
You can also pay using your debit or credit card through Paymaya.
Here’s how:
- Link Your Card to Paymaya: Follow the instructions on Paymaya to set up your account for online payments.
- Generate Your PRN: Obtain your PRN using your My.SSS account or the SSS mobile app.
- Complete the Payment: Enter your PRN and follow the steps to make the payment through Paymaya.
Step 3: Make Your Payment
Once you’ve chosen your preferred payment method, follow the necessary instructions to complete the payment.
Make sure to:
- Keep Your Payment Receipts: These serve as proof of payment and can be used to verify your contribution.
Step 4: Verify Your Payment
After making your payment, it’s important to confirm that it has been processed correctly.
Here’s how you can check:
- Log Into Your SSS Account: You can visit the SSS website or use the SSS mobile app to check your payment status.
- Contact SSS if Needed: If you notice any issues with your payment, reach out to the SSS for assistance.
Step 5: Maintain Regular Payments
To continue enjoying your SSS benefits, it’s essential to keep up with your contributions.
Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
- Stay Informed About Payment Deadlines: OFWs generally have a more flexible payment schedule, but it’s still important to stay aware of deadlines.
- Avoid Penalties: Late payments can result in fines and may affect your eligibility for certain benefits.
- Take Advantage of Retroactive Payments: As an OFW, you can pay your contributions for the entire year up until the last day of December.
Important Considerations for OFW Members
As an OFW, you enjoy certain privileges when it comes to your SSS membership.
These unique benefits make it easier for you to continue your contributions even while working abroad:
- Retroactive Payments
Unlike other membership types (such as Employed, Self-Employed, or Voluntary), OFW members can pay their contributions retroactively.
This means you can pay your entire year’s contribution (from January to December) until the last day of December that same year.
Other membership types are required to pay quarterly, making this flexibility an advantage for OFWs.
- SSS Flexi Fund
The SSS Flexi Fund is a special provident fund offered exclusively to OFWs.
If you are paying the maximum SSS contribution (currently Php 1760/month), you can contribute additional amounts—starting from as little as Php 200—to your Flexi Fund Account.
This extra fund can be used for retirement, disability, and death benefits.
Additionally, the Flexi Fund allows early withdrawals if you need the money for urgent reasons.
This makes the Flexi Fund not only a savings option but also a financial safety net for OFWs.
Updating Your Personal Information with the SSS
If you need to update any personal information with the SSS, such as adding beneficiaries or changing your marital status, you will need to submit the SSS Form E-4.
This form allows you to update your Member’s Data.
Supporting documents such as your birth certificate (for adding a beneficiary) or marriage contract (for updating your marital status) will be required.
You can submit these documents at an SSS Branch in the Philippines or through the SSS Branch abroad nearest to you.
Alternatively, you can update your contact information online through the SSS website.
Flexibility with Your SSS Contributions
If you wish to adjust your Monthly Salary Credit (MSC)—which affects the amount of your contributions—you can do so under certain conditions.
For example, if you want to increase your contributions, you can move up one or two salary brackets without needing to submit proof of earnings.
However, if you want to lower your MSC or make a large increase, additional documentation (such as a Declaration of Earnings) may be required.
For members aged 55 years or older, any increase above Php 10,000 in MSC is limited to one salary bracket, regardless of supporting documents.
Auto-Debit Arrangement System for SSS Payments
For added convenience, the SSS Auto-Debit Arrangement (ADA) System allows Self-Employed and Voluntary Members to automatically deduct their monthly SSS contributions and loan repayments from their bank accounts.
The following banks offer ADA services for SSS contributions:
- BDO
- BPI
- Metrobank
- PNB
- United Coconut Planters Bank
- Development Bank of the Philippines
- Philippine Savings Bank
This system eliminates the need to visit a payment center and simplifies your contribution process.
Contacting the SSS for Assistance
If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your SSS contributions as an OFW, there are several ways to get in touch with the SSS.
You can reach the OFW Contact Service Unit (CSU) through the following:
- Email: ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph
- Landline: (632) 364-7796 / (532) 354-7795
- Mobile: Globe (63) 977 804-8668 / Smart (63) 998 847-4092
International toll-free call services are also available in various countries, including the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
For more information, you can visit the SSS website at www.sss.gov.ph.
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Conclusion
Maintaining your SSS contributions as an OFW is an important step in securing your future benefits, including retirement, disability, and death benefits.
By using available payment methods and taking advantage of the Flexi Fund, you can continue your membership and build financial security even while working abroad.
For any questions or assistance, don’t hesitate to contact the SSS directly or visit their website for more information.