The Social Security System (SSS) Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP) stands as a substantial support structure for Filipinos aiming for academic advancement. Established in 2012, the EALP offers financial assistance for SSS members and their dependents, aiding them to manage costs associated with pursuing college degrees or vocational and technical courses. With a P7 billion fund co-supported by the National Government and SSS, this program addresses the crucial need for financial support in education, fostering opportunity and growth for numerous families across the Philippines.
Targeting SSS members earning P25,000.00 or less monthly and with adequate contribution records, the EALP extends a helping hand by providing loans up to P20,000.00 per term for degree courses, and up to P10,000.00 per term for vocational/technical courses. This initiative is not merely a financial mechanism but a pledge towards the empowerment of individuals, ensuring that educational pursuits are not derailed by economic challenges.
What is the SSS Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP)?
The EALP is a financial assistance program designed by the SSS to help members and their beneficiaries shoulder educational expenses for college degrees or vocational/technical courses. Since its inception in 2012, with a budget of P7 billion jointly funded by the National Government and the SSS, the EALP has been an essential support system for many Filipino families.
Significance of the Program
The SSS Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP) holds immense significance in the Philippines, serving as a robust support system for students pursuing higher education. Established by the Social Security System, this program aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by families and individuals striving to access quality education. The EALP provides low-interest loans to eligible members, enabling them to cover tuition fees, books, and other educational expenses. As of recent data, the SSS has disbursed substantial credit amounts, benefiting thousands of students across the nation. The program’s legislative framework ensures its sustainability and equitable distribution, reinforcing the government’s commitment to education accessibility. By bridging the financial gap, the EALP contributes to a more educated workforce, economic growth, and social development in the Philippines.
Legal Basis
The EALP is based on the government’s recognition of the importance of education as a fundamental right and a key to national development. This program aligns with the Philippines’ educational policies and the SSS’s mandate to provide meaningful benefits to its members.
Benefits
- Degree Courses: Up to P20,000.00 per term, with a total allocation of up to P160,000.00 for a four-year course and P200,000.00 for a five-year course.
- Vocational/Technical Courses: Up to P10,000.00 per term, with a total allocation of up to P40,000.00 for a two-year course.
Eligibility/Qualifications
To qualify for the EALP:
- You must be an SSS member under 60 years old.
- Your monthly income should not exceed P25,000.00.
- You should have at least 36 posted SSS contributions, with six within the last 12 months before applying.
- Your SSS loan payments must be up to date.
Requirements
- EALP Application Form
- Valid ID or Documents
- School’s Assessment/Billing Statement
- Proof of Monthly Salary/Income
- Proof of Relationship to Beneficiary (for new applicants)
How to Fill out the SSS EALP Application Form
Filling out the Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP) application form can seem daunting, but it’s straightforward when you know what to do.
Part I: To be filled out by the Member-Borrower
- Type of Loan: Indicate if this is a new application or a renewal.
- SSS Number: Your unique SS identification number.
- Member-Borrower’s Name: Write your full name as registered with the agency.
- Date of Birth & SS Number of Beneficiary: If the credits are for a beneficiary, provide their birth date and your SS number.
- Address: Provide your current residence and mailing address.
- Contact Information: List your phone number and email for correspondence.
- Beneficiary Information: If the loan is for a beneficiary, fill in their full name and relationship to you.
Member-Borrower’s Certification, Agreement, and Promissory Note
- Certify the information: Read the declarations, certify that the information you provided is true, and sign the form.
- Agreement: Understand the terms of the loan and agree to them with your signature.
- Promissory Note: Sign to promise to pay back the credits according to the terms discussed.
Part II: To be Filled out by School’s Authorized Representative
- School Information: This section is for the school’s official use, including school name, address, contact information, and certification regarding the enrollee’s fees.
Instructions for Filling Out
- Read through the instructions carefully.
- Use black ink and print clearly.
- Do not leave any required fields blank. If a field is not applicable, write “N/A.”
List of Filer’s Valid Identification (ID) Cards/Documents
- Primary and Secondary IDs: List the valid IDs you will present, like your SS card, driver’s license, or passport.
Part III: Terms and Conditions
- Review the terms and conditions carefully before signing the form.
- By signing, you agree to all the terms set by the agency for EALP credits.
Disclosures and Authorizations
- Disclosures: This section outlines your consent for SSS to verify the information you’ve provided.
- Authorization: Sign to authorize the agency to check your records and discuss your loan application with relevant parties.
Educational Assistance Loan Program Application Acknowledgment Receipt
- Receipt Stub: This will be your proof of submission. Make sure to get it signed and stamped by an SSS officer after submitting your form.
Reminder Section
- Read the reminders carefully for any additional requirements or conditions.
- Check the SSS website or call their Call Center if you have any questions.
Filling out the Application Form Properly
- Ensure all data is correct and corresponds to your legal documents.
- Double-check your application before submission to avoid delays.
- Be mindful of the deadline for application to ensure timely processing.
Step-by-Step Guide on how to apply for the SSS Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP)
1. Obtain the EALP Application Form
- Visit the nearest SSS branch or download the form from the official website.
- Fill out the personal information section, providing your complete name, SS number, birthdate, and contact details.
2. Indicate Loan Details
- Specify your desired loan amount and purpose (e.g., educational expenses).
- If you’re an existing member-borrower, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including having six posted monthly contributions within the last 12 months prior to filing the subsequent EALP application.
3. Submit Required Documents
For the initial application:
- Valid identification cards or documents.
- Accomplished EALP Application form.
- Current assessment or billing statement from the school.
- Proof of monthly income/salary.
- Proof of relationship to the beneficiary (if applicable).
For subsequent applications:
- Similar documents as above.
The EALP Application Form includes a Certification from the school/university/college, valid for one calendar month from issuance date. File the application with the agency within one month.
4. Repayment Terms
Existing member-borrowers without approved subsequent applications follow their preferred repayment term from their initial loan application.
New applicants’ repayment term is determined based on either:
- Preferred term from the initial Educ-Assist application.
- Scheduled term based on the Principal amount (adjusted term if the member-borrower must not be 65 years old or older at the end of the repayment term).
5. Payment Options
After consolidation of the Educ-Assist loan, the agency sends a billing statement via mail or electronic means.
- Payment can be made at an SSS branch with tellering facility, agency-accredited banks (using SS Form ML-1), or through salary deduction by your employer.
- Employers indicate “E” for the Loan Type and the initial EAL date or consolidation date on the Loans Collection List (LCL or ML-2).
6. Replacement Member-Borrower (if applicable)
If the original member-borrower has received final SS benefits (retirement, total permanent disability, death), a replacement member-borrower may be allowed.
- The replacement member-borrower (e.g., legal spouse, unmarried sibling, or beneficiary if employed) must meet EALP eligibility requirements.
7. Keep Your Contact Information Updated
Notify SSS of any updates or changes in your contact information by submitting an accomplished SS Form E-4 (Member Data Change Request) to any branch.
Recent Updates
SSS Warns Public About Fake Scholarship Program
The Social Security System has issued a warning about fake posts claiming to offer a scholarship program. These posts, which feature the SSS logo, contain suspicious links that lead to an unverified website. The agency clarifies that they do not have an ongoing scholarship program and advises the public to be cautious of such misleading information. (Rappler)
The SSS Educational Assistance Program: Providing Affordable Loans for Education Expenses
The Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP) is a joint effort of the Social Security System and the National Government in the Philippines. It aims to support its members and their beneficiaries in covering educational expenses for college degrees and vocational courses. To qualify, interested members must meet certain criteria, including being below 60 years old, having a monthly income of P25,000 or below, and having at least 36 posted contributions. The program allows for a maximum loanable amount of P20,000 per semester, trimester, or quarter, providing accessible financial support for education. (Business Mirror)
Video: #eSSSkwela Webinar S02E06 | Educational Loan and Pension Loan
Discover the various loan programs offered by SSS, aside from salary and calamity loans. Whether you need additional funds for education or if you’re a retiree-pensioner looking to avail of pension credits, watch Part 2 of the #eSSSkwela Webinar Episode 6 for more information.
Conclusion
The Educational Assistance Loan Program is more than just a financial aid; it’s a lifeline for families striving for a better future through education. By understanding and utilizing this program, eligible members can ease the burden of educational expenses, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their or their beneficiaries’ dreams of achieving higher education. Let’s embrace this opportunity and take a step closer to unlocking our full potential and contributing to the nation’s growth.