SSS Number, ID, and Online Account

PARA SA MGA TAMAD MAGBASA: HINDI AKO TAGA SSS! HINDI NINYO RIN MALALAMAN SSS # NINYO DITO SA SITE NA ITO!

Takte, nakasulat na nga sa unang linya na pumila ako para kunin SSS ID ko, tinatanong ninyo pa ako kung tiungkol sa SSS number ninyo.

Isa kayo sa mga rason kung bakit hindi umuunlad bansa natin.

Spent a good part of the day waiting in line for SSS ID processing. Realized later that I could make a short yet informative post about it.

I don’t want to insult my reader’s intelligence (which is what, averaging 140? :P ) so I’ll minimize repeating stuff found in the official website.

SSS number

What is it:

It’s the Philippines’ version of US’ Social Security Number. Like its counterpart, not only does it provide employers benefits like insurance and loans, the number also serves as an official identification number.

It’s also compulsory for employees and employers. Prospective employees are required to get one before starting work.

How to apply for it:

As I said above, I won’t be insulting your intelligence–just go to the site for details.

There are some stuff missing from that site, though. They’re common knowledge so they pretty much have the right to leave them out.

First, one can apply for the SSS number at any SSS branch. Just choose the one closest to you for convenience. And yes, all forms are available onsite.

Another thing is that while the process is brief (inspection of documents, double-checking of details, and affixing of thumbmark), there may be a lot of people applying for SSS numbers. Try to come to the office as early as 8AM you don’t want to wait for more than 1 hour in line.

SSS ID

What is it:

It’s just your SSS number in ID form… until you realize it contains your biometric data (mug shot, 4 fingerprints and signature samples).

Because of this, it’s one of the few items that can identify you as a citizen even without other supporting documents. Those other items are your passport, your Seaman’s Book (if you’re a seaman), and your PRC Card (if you’re a registered professional).

The biggest thing going for it is it’s free. You just have to make at least one SSS contribution to be eligible for it. Replacement cards require a fee, though.

How to apply for it:

Look here.

One thing not mentioned there is that the E-6 form requires you to specify the SSS number of your latest employer. Assuming you’re running a legit business, this number is in a plate displayed near the entrance of your office along with other similar government plates e.g. community/business tax. Being unemployed, I just had a former co-worker look it up and text me the number.

Also, the same warning about long lines applies for the ID too. In my experience this morning/afternoon, the counter for E-1 (new applications) and E-6 are the same. The long wait should give you time to think about the 4 digit PIN number which will be asked near the end of the process for locking your biometric data.

And finally, don’t expect the ID to arrive soon. You could, however, follow up after 30 days with the stub provided to you at the end of process.

My.SSS

What is it:

An online account for SSS members. You can inquire your employment and donation history with this account (among other things).

How to apply for it:

Register here.

It’s pretty straightforward. Like ID registration, you’ll need your employer’s number here too.

[09/09/09 update: looks like SSS finally used the correct port numbers for HTTP and HTTPS instead of 7777 and 4443]

[09/16/09 update: I finally got my card in the mail after almost 4 months of waiting. :D]