SSS ID Requirements – List of Valid IDs
SSS ID Requirements. Applying for your SSS ID (Social Security System Identification) in the Philippines is a key step toward accessing government services, benefits, and financial security. However, before you can get your hands on this essential card, it’s crucial to understand all the SSS ID requirements and documents needed for a smooth application.
In this expert-written guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know — from valid ID options to supporting documents — to ensure your application is fast and successful.
What is an SSS ID?
The SSS ID, also known as the Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID), is an official identification card issued by the Social Security System of the Philippines. This card serves multiple purposes: it confirms your identity, allows access to government services, and simplifies transactions with SSS, GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.
Read also: How To Pay SSS Loan Online – How To Pay SSS Loan Using Gcash
Why the SSS ID Is Important
The SSS ID is more than just a piece of plastic it an official identification that proves your membership with the Philippine Social Security System. It gives you access to benefits such as:
- Sickness, maternity, and disability benefits
- Retirement and death benefits
- Salary loans
- Government transactions
- Bank and financial services
As such, knowing the complete list of SSS ID requirements ensures you won’t face delays during your application.
Primary SSS ID Requirements
When applying for your SSS ID, the ideal document to submit is one valid primary ID. If that’s unavailable, then you must submit two valid secondary IDs, one of which must include a photo and both must include your signature.
Accepted Primary IDs
Here is the list of documents accepted as primary IDs for your SSS ID application:
| Primary ID | Remarks |
|---|---|
| Unified Multi-Purpose ID (UMID) Card | Most preferred |
| Old SSS ID Card | For replacement or upgrading |
| Philippine Passport | Must be valid |
| Driver’s License | Must be valid |
| Postal Identity Card | Accepted nationwide |
| Voter’s ID | Issued by the Commission on Elections |
| NBI Clearance | Valid for 6 months |
| Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (Seaman’s Book) | For maritime professionals |
| Alien Certificate of Registration | For foreign nationals |
| Firearm Registration | Issued by PNP |
| License to Own and Possess Firearms | Special document |
| Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence | Must be current |
Note: Always present the original copy of any primary ID. Photocopies are not accepted.
Read also: Where To Pay SSS Contribution
Secondary SSS ID Requirements
If you do not have any of the above primary IDs, don’t worry. You can still proceed with your SSS ID application by presenting two secondary IDs, ensuring at least one of them has your photograph, and both include your signature.
Accepted Secondary IDs
| Secondary ID | Remarks |
|---|---|
| TIN ID | Issued by BIR |
| PhilHealth MDR (Member Data Record) | Must be updated |
| Pag-IBIG Member’s Data Form | Must include your Pag-IBIG number |
| Police Clearance | Recent and valid |
| Birth Certificate | Issued by PSA |
| School or Company ID | Must be signed |
| Transcript of Records | Must include your complete name |
| Senior Citizen Card | For eligible senior applicants |
| Marriage Contract | For married women applicants |
| OWWA Card | For OFWs |
| Barangay, Municipal or City ID | Issued by local government units |
| PRC License | For licensed professionals |
| Fisherman’s Card | Issued by BFAR |
| Seafarer’s Registration Certificate | From POEA |
| Certificate of Naturalization | For naturalized citizens |
| Temporary Driver’s License | From LTO |
| OMA Certificate or Certificate from Muslim Affairs | For Muslim applicants |
| Certificate from ONCC/OSCC | For cultural community members |
Read also: SSS E-4 Form Online Registration – SSS E-4 Form Downloadable
List of Valid IDs for SSS ID
Aside from primary and secondary IDs, SSS also accepts several other supporting documents that prove your identity, citizenship, and eligibility.
List of Valid IDs (Expanded)
If the applicant does not have a birth certificate, any of the following can serve as alternative identification:
| Alternative Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Baptismal Certificate | Issued by a church or parish |
| PhilSys ID / ePhilID | National ID issued by the government |
| Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Card | For licensed individuals |
| SSS Digitized ID | Previously issued SSS ID |
| Seaman’s Book (Seafarer’s ID and Record Book) | Maritime profession document |
| UMID Card | Unified ID recognized across agencies |
Read also: SSS Pension Calculator – How to Use the SSS Pension Calculator
What If You Don’t Have the Above IDs?
If you lack the above primary documents, you must provide two (2) of the following IDs, ensuring that:
- Both documents have your correct name.
- At least one must display your date of birth.
| Document | Remarks |
|---|---|
| GSIS card or Certificate of Membership | Government employee ID |
| ATM Card (with name) | From any recognized bank |
| Alien Certificate of Registration | For foreign nationals |
| Bank Passbook | Must include name and address |
| Birth Certificate of children | For parent identification |
| Certificate from Maritime Industry Authority | For maritime workers |
| Certificate from National Commission on Indigenous Peoples | Cultural affiliation |
| Certificate from Muslim Filipino Tribal Affiliation | Issued by NCMF |
| Certificate of Non-Availability of Birth Records | From PSA, City Hall, or NSO |
| Court Orders (name/sex correction) | Must be official and notarized |
| Credit Card | With cardholder’s name |
| Firearm License Card (PNP) | Must be valid |
| Fishworker’s License | From BFAR |
| Medical or Health Card | From clinic, hospital, or HMO |
| Pag-IBIG Transaction Card | With printed name |
| Homeowners Association ID | Recognized by local government |
| ID issued by LGUs | Barangay/Municipal/City |
| PRC-recognized Professional Association ID | For members of recognized groups |
| License from PHILRACOM | Horse racing professionals |
| Life Insurance Policy | With policyholder name |
| Membership card from private companies | Company-issued |
| NBI Clearance | Recently issued |
| Police Clearance | Valid and recent |
| Postal ID | Issued by Post Office |
| School ID | For current students |
| Senior Citizen ID | For applicants 60 and above |
| Student Permit (LTO) | Valid temporary license |
| TIN Card | With taxpayer’s name |
| Transcript of Records | Must be complete |
| Voter’s ID or Certificate of Registration | Issued by Comelec |
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Here are some expert tips to ensure your SSS ID application goes without a hitch:
- Always bring original documents – Photocopies are not accepted.
- Double-check your information – Make sure names, birthdates, and addresses match across all documents.
- Visit the nearest SSS branch early – Lines can get long.
- Bring extra valid IDs – Just in case one is not accepted due to expiration or unclear information.
- Make an appointment online – Visit the SSS website to schedule a slot if your branch supports it.
Conclusion
Understanding the complete list of SSS ID requirements is the first step to accessing the many benefits the SSS system offers. Whether you’re applying for the first time, upgrading your old card, or replacing a lost one, having the right documents in hand will save you time, stress, and unnecessary delays.
