What Is The Maximum Amount Of SSS Funeral Benefit?
What Is The Maximum Amount Of SSS Funeral Benefit? The Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines offers several benefits to its members and their families, one of which is the funeral benefit. This assistance is intended to help cover the cost of burial, cremation, and other funeral-related expenses.
With recent updates to the program, it crucial for members and claimants to understand the maximum amount of SSS funeral benefit, eligibility requirements, how the benefit is calculated, and the step-by-step process to claim it.
What Is the Maximum Amount of SSS Funeral Benefit?
As of October 20, 2023, the maximum amount of SSS funeral benefit has been increased to ₱60,000, according to the latest guidelines under SSS Circular 2023-009. This enhancement was made to encourage active membership and provide more meaningful financial support to bereaved families.
| Contribution History | Funeral Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| At least 36 monthly contributions | ₱20,000 – ₱60,000 (Variable) |
| At least 1 but fewer than 36 contributions | ₱12,000 (Fixed) |
The exact amount within the ₱20,000 to ₱60,000 range is based on the member’s total number of contributions and their Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC).
Eligibility Criteria for SSS Funeral Benefit
To qualify for the funeral benefit, certain conditions must be met:
- Deceased Member Must Be an SSS Member or Pensioner: The funeral benefit applies whether the deceased was actively contributing or already receiving a pension.
- Minimum Number of Contributions
- For the variable amount: At least 36 monthly contributions are required up to the month of death.
- For the fixed amount: If the member has paid at least one but fewer than 36 contributions, a fixed funeral benefit of ₱12,000 will be granted.
- Claimants
- Legal spouse is given priority.
- Other claimants (family members or legal representatives) may be considered if the legal spouse is unavailable.
What Does the SSS Funeral Benefit Cover?
The SSS funeral benefit is a reimbursement of actual funeral-related expenses. It is not given as an outright cash aid but rather as compensation for costs incurred during the funeral process.
Here’s what the benefit typically covers:
| Covered Expenses | Description |
|---|---|
| Embalming services | Body preparation and preservation |
| Burial permits and transfer services | Legal permits and transportation |
| Church or religious ceremony expenses | Services for interment/cremation |
| Cremation or interment services | Final disposal of remains |
| Coffin purchase or rental | Required for viewing or burial |
| Memorial lot, niche, or columbarium | Final resting place |
| Memorial or funeral insurance plans | If proven with official receipts |
| Other documented funeral expenses | As reflected in proof of payment |
Important: The reimbursement amount cannot exceed the computed funeral benefit, even if the actual expenses are higher.
How Is the Funeral Benefit Computed?
The maximum amount of SSS funeral benefit is not automatically given to every claimant. Instead, it is calculated based on two main factors:
- Total Number of Contributions: The more contributions a member has made, the higher the potential benefit.
- Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC): This is the average of the member’s declared monthly income used to calculate SSS benefits. Higher AMSC values result in higher funeral benefits.
Read also: How to Use the SSS Calculator
How to Apply for the SSS Funeral Benefit
For Member-Claimants
Members (usually the legal spouse) can apply online through their My.SSS account. This is the fastest and most convenient method. Here’s the process:
- Log in to your My.SSS account at www.sss.gov.ph.
- Go to the Benefits section and select Funeral Benefit Application.
- Fill in the required information and upload scanned copies of the required documents.
- Submit the application and wait for confirmation.
- For Non-Member Claimants
If the claimant is not an SSS member, they must apply in person at the nearest SSS branch. Required documents include:
- Death certificate of the deceased member
- Official receipts for funeral expenses
- Valid IDs of both the deceased and claimant
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate)
- SSS Form for Funeral Benefit application
Filing Period and Important Deadlines
The prescriptive period to file a funeral benefit claim is 10 years from the date of the member’s death. Failing to file within this period may result in forfeiture of the benefit.
Who Can Claim the Funeral Benefit?
The priority claimant for the SSS funeral benefit is the surviving legal spouse. However, in the absence of a legal spouse, other individuals who can prove they shouldered the funeral expenses may also be eligible.
- Proof of relationship to the deceased (if applicable)
- Official receipts of funeral expenses
- Death certificate of the member
- Claimant’s valid ID and supporting documents
New Guidelines Under SSS Circular 2023-009
The SSS issued Circular 2023-009 to enhance the Funeral Benefit Program. The changes aim to encourage active membership by offering higher benefits and simplifying the claim process, especially for surviving legal spouses.
- Increase maximum benefits from previous limits to up to ₱60,000.
- Streamline the claims process for faster benefit disbursement.
- Incentivize active contribution to ensure eligibility for higher payouts.
Why the SSS Increased the Funeral Benefit
SSS President and CEO Rolando Ledesma Macasaet explained that the changes aim to:
- Encourage active contribution among members
- Provide greater financial support during a difficult time
- Simplify and expedite the benefit claiming process, especially for surviving spouses
He emphasized that actively paying SSS contributions not only qualifies members for funeral benefits but also improves access to other SSS benefits and loan programs.
Benefits of Active SSS Membership
Active SSS membership ensures access to a variety of benefits beyond just the funeral grant. Here’s a quick overview:
| Type of Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Sickness Benefit | Daily cash allowance during illness |
| Maternity Benefit | Financial assistance for childbirth |
| Disability Benefit | Aid for permanent or partial disability |
| Retirement Benefit | Monthly pension for qualified retirees |
| Death Benefit | Monthly pension or lump sum for beneficiaries |
| Unemployment Benefit | Cash assistance for involuntary separation |
| Loan Programs | Salary, calamity, and educational loans |
Being up to date with your SSS contributions maximizes these benefits, especially in unforeseen circumstances such as illness, retirement, or death.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming the Funeral Benefit
To ensure your application is processed without delay, avoid these common errors:
- Incomplete documents: Always double-check the list of requirements.
- Using unofficial receipts: Only expenses with official receipts are reimbursed.
- Delays in filing: File as soon as possible to avoid exceeding the 10-year limit.
- Incorrect relationship claims: Only legal spouses and valid representatives can claim.
Conclusion
The maximum amount of SSS funeral benefit is a significant financial aid provided by the Philippine government through the Social Security System. With the recent increase to ₱60,000, it now offers more meaningful support to the families of deceased members. However, to fully benefit from this provision, members must ensure they maintain active contributions and that their beneficiaries are aware of how to file claims.
