Losing a loved one is an emotionally taxing experience, often compounded by the significant financial burden of funeral and burial expenses. In the Philippines, several government agencies and programs offer "Burial Assistance" (commonly referred to as Funeral Benefit) to help ease this transition.
This guide outlines the primary sources of burial assistance, eligibility requirements, and the step-by-step process for filing claims.
1. Social Security System (SSS) Funeral Benefit
The SSS provides a cash benefit to whoever paid for the funeral expenses of a deceased member.
Eligibility:
The deceased must have been an SSS member (employed, self-employed, or voluntary).
The member must have paid at least one (1) monthly contribution prior to the semester of death.
Benefit Amount: The amount ranges from ₱20,000 to ₱60,000, depending on the member's number of contributions and their Average Daily Salary Credit (ADSC).
Requirements:
Death Certificate (PSA certified).
Fetal Death Certificate (if applicable).
Receipts of funeral expenses (issued in the name of the claimant).
Valid IDs of the claimant.
How to Apply: Applications are now primarily processed online via the My.SSS portal. The claimant must have a registered SSS account and an enrolled disbursement account (e.g., bank or e-wallet).
2. Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Funeral Benefit
For government employees, the GSIS offers a fixed funeral benefit to the beneficiaries or the person who shouldered the expenses.
Eligibility: * Active members.
Members who have been separated from service but are entitled to future separation/retirement benefits.
Old-age or disability pensioners.
Benefit Amount: A fixed amount of ₱30,000.
Requirements:
Death Certificate from PSA.
Service Record (if the deceased was an active member).
Claimant’s valid IDs.
How to Apply: Claims can be filed through GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosks or via the GSIS Touch mobile app.
3. DSWD: AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations)
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides medical and burial assistance to "indigent" or "distressed" individuals and families.
Eligibility: Families belonging to the informal sector or those classified as "indigent" by their local government.
Benefit Amount: This is discretionary and based on the assessment of a social worker. It typically ranges from ₱5,000 to ₱10,000, though it can be higher in specific cases.
Requirements:
Certificate of Indigency from the Barangay.
Funeral Contract.
Death Certificate (certified true copy).
Valid ID of the claimant.
How to Apply: Visit the nearest DSWD Regional Office or Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) office.
4. Employees' Compensation Commission (ECC)
If the death was work-related (e.g., an accident at the workplace or a disease contracted due to the nature of the job), the ECC provides an additional funeral benefit on top of the SSS/GSIS benefit.
- Benefit Amount: ₱30,000 for both private and public sector employees.
- How to Apply: This is filed through the SSS (for private employees) or GSIS (for public employees) by checking the "EC Claim" box in the funeral benefit application.
5. Local Government Units (LGUs) and PCSO
- LGUs: Many cities and municipalities have their own "Libreng Palibing" or burial assistance programs. Check with your local City or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO/MSWDO).
- PCSO: The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office provides "Institutional Contractual Service" for those who cannot afford burial services, though this is often facilitated through social workers in hospitals or DSWD.
Summary Table: Quick Reference
| Agency | Target Group | Estimated Amount | Primary Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSS | Private/Self-employed | ₱20k – ₱60k | 1+ Contribution; Online Filing |
| GSIS | Gov't Employees | ₱30k (Fixed) | Active or Pensioner status |
| DSWD | Indigent Families | ₱5k – ₱10k+ | Certificate of Indigency |
| ECC | Work-related Death | ₱30k | Proof of work-relatedness |
Important Legal Reminders
- Prescription Period: SSS funeral claims must be filed within ten (10) years from the date of death. GSIS claims should generally be filed within four (4) years.
- PSA Documents: Always ensure you have multiple original or certified true copies of the Death Certificate from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), as most agencies will require them.
- Anti-Fixer Law: Under R.A. 11032 (Ease of Doing Business Act), government employees are prohibited from charging extra fees to process these benefits. Always deal directly with official office representatives.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. Please consult with the specific government agency or a legal professional for case-specific inquiries.
Would you like me to draft a sample Request Letter or a Barangay Certificate of Indigency template that you can use for these applications?