The loss of a loved one is an emotionally taxing period, often compounded by the immediate financial burden of funeral and burial expenses. In the Philippines, several government institutions provide funeral or burial benefits to ease this transition.
This guide outlines the legal requirements and the hierarchy of authorized claimants for the primary social security institutions in the country.
1. Social Security System (SSS) Funeral Benefit
The SSS Funeral Benefit is a cash grant given to whoever paid for the burial expenses of a deceased member or pensioner.
Who Can Claim?
The benefit is paid to the individual who actually defrayed the cost of the funeral. The priority is usually:
- The surviving legal spouse.
- The children of the deceased.
- Any other person who can present proof of payment (receipts) for funeral expenses.
Requirements
- Claim for Funeral Benefit Form (SSS Form BPN-103): Properly accomplished.
- Death Certificate: Certified true copy issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or the Local Civil Registrar (LCR).
- Fetal Death Certificate: In case of a stillborn child of an SSS member.
- Official Receipt (OR): This must be issued in the name of the claimant by a funeral parlor or relevant service provider.
- Valid IDs: At least two valid government-issued IDs of the claimant.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage Contract (if spouse) or Birth Certificate (if child).
Benefit Amount
The amount ranges from ₱20,000 to ₱60,000, depending on the member’s number of contributions and the Average Daily Capital Credit (ADCC).
2. Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Funeral Benefit
This is intended for government employees who were active members at the time of death or pensioners.
Who Can Claim?
Unlike the SSS, the GSIS follows a strict hierarchy for the "Funeral Benefit":
- The surviving legal spouse.
- In the absence of a spouse, the children.
- In the absence of both, the person who can prove they paid for the funeral expenses.
Requirements
- Application Form for Funeral Benefit: Available via the GSIS website or kiosks.
- Death Certificate: PSA-certified.
- Marriage Contract: If the claimant is the spouse.
- Birth Certificate: Of the deceased (if single) or of the children (if children are claiming).
- Service Record: If the member died while in active service.
- eCard or Valid IDs: Two valid IDs of the claimant.
Benefit Amount
As of current regulations, the fixed amount is ₱30,000.
3. Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF) Death Benefit
While Pag-IBIG does not have a "funeral grant" in the same sense as SSS/GSIS, it provides a Death Benefit which is the total accumulated value (TAV) of the member’s savings, plus any earned dividends.
Who Can Claim?
The legal heirs of the deceased member in the following order:
- Surviving spouse.
- Legitimate and illegitimate children.
- Parents.
- Siblings.
Requirements
- Application for Provident Benefits (APB) Claims: Specifically for death.
- Death Certificate: PSA-certified.
- Proof of Surviving Legal Heirs: An Affidavit of Surviving Heirs (notarized).
- Marriage Contract/Birth Certificates: To establish the relationship of heirs.
4. PhilHealth (Death Benefits)
PhilHealth does not provide a direct cash burial grant. However, if the deceased was a member, PhilHealth helps cover the final hospital bills incurred prior to death. This reduces the overall financial burden on the family.
5. Burial Assistance from Local Government (LGUs) and DSWD
Under the AICS (Aid to Individuals in Crisis Situation) program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides burial assistance to indigent families.
Requirements
- Case Study Report: Issued by the City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.
- Funeral Contract: A copy of the agreement with the funeral home.
- Certificate of Indigency: From the Barangay of the deceased.
- Death Certificate: Certified copy.
Summary Table of Authorized Claimants
| Agency | Primary Claimant | Proof of Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| SSS | Whoever paid the funeral costs | Official Funeral Receipts |
| GSIS | Legal Spouse (Priority) | Marriage Contract |
| Pag-IBIG | Legal Heirs | Affidavit of Surviving Heirs |
| DSWD | Indigent Next-of-Kin | Certificate of Indigency |
Important Legal Note
All claims should ideally be filed within ten (10) years from the date of death for SSS and GSIS, though it is highly recommended to file as soon as the Death Certificate is available to avoid administrative delays.
Would you like me to draft a sample Affidavit of Surviving Heirs or a Letter of Authorization for claiming these benefits?