The Social Security System (SSS) Funeral Benefit is a cash grant provided to whoever paid for the burial and funeral expenses of a deceased member. While the SSS Loyalty Card Plus (or UMID card) is often touted as the primary tool for receiving benefits, it is not a legal requirement for filing or receiving a claim.
Under current SSS regulations—including the enhancements implemented through SSS Circular No. 2023-009 and updated procedures as of 2026—claimants can successfully process their applications through alternative digital and physical channels.
1. Eligibility Requirements
To claim the burial benefit, specific conditions must be met regarding both the deceased member and the claimant.
For the Deceased Member:
- Membership Status: Must be an SSS member (active, inactive, or a pensioner).
- Contribution Requirement: The member must have at least one (1) posted monthly contribution prior to the semester of death.
- Types of Coverage: Includes employees, self-employed individuals, voluntary members, non-working spouses, and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
For the Claimant:
- The claimant must be the person who actually defrayed the funeral expenses.
- Priority: The surviving legal spouse is given priority in the filing and processing of the claim, though other individuals (relatives or non-relatives) may claim if they provide proof of payment.
2. The Solution for Non-Cardholders: The DAEM
If you do not possess an SSS Loyalty Card Plus or a UMID-ATM card, you must use the Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM). This is a mandatory digital step that tells SSS where to send the funds electronically.
Approved Disbursement Channels via DAEM:
- PESONet-Participating Banks: Any traditional savings or current account in your name.
- E-Wallets: Validated accounts such as GCash, Maya, or similar platforms.
- Cash Pick-up Points: In specific cases, though digital bank transfers are the preferred and faster method.
3. Benefit Amount (2026 Schedule)
The benefit amount is variable, based on the number of contributions and the Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC) of the deceased:
| Number of Contributions | Benefit Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 to 35 Months | Fixed amount of ₱12,000 |
| 36 Months or More | Variable amount from ₱20,000 up to ₱60,000 |
Note: The variable amount for those with 36+ contributions is calculated based on a formula involving the member's AMSC and credited years of service (CYS).
4. Documentary Requirements
Since the claim is being filed without the "all-in-one" Loyalty Card, the claimant must provide the following digital or physical documents:
Basic Documents:
- Death Certificate: Issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or the Local Civil Registrar (LCR).
- Official Receipts: Proof of payment for funeral expenses (e.g., from the funeral parlor, cemetery, or columbarium).
- Claimant’s Identification: At least one primary ID (Passport, Driver’s License, or PhilID/National ID) or two secondary IDs.
Special Cases:
- If the claimant is the spouse: Marriage Contract (PSA-issued).
- If the receipts are in another name: An affidavit of memorial/funeral expenses indicating that the claimant was the one who actually paid.
- Memorial Plan Availment: A certification from the memorial plan company if a pre-need plan was used.
5. Step-by-Step Filing Process
All member-claimants are now required to file their claims online through the My.SSS Portal.
Step 1: Enroll a Disbursement Account
- Log in to your My.SSS account (Member/Claimant account).
- Navigate to the E-Services tab and select Disbursement Account Enrollment Module (DAEM).
- Enter your bank or e-wallet details and upload a photo of your ATM card, bank statement, or e-wallet screenshot to prove ownership. Wait for SSS to verify this (usually 1–3 business days).
Step 2: Submit the Funeral Claim
- Once the DAEM is approved, go to the Benefits tab and click Submit Funeral Claim Application.
- Input the SS Number of the deceased. The system will automatically validate if the deceased is eligible.
- Select your relationship to the deceased and choose your enrolled disbursement account.
- Upload the scanned copies of the Death Certificate and Funeral Receipts.
Step 3: Confirmation
- Review the "Certification and Undertaking" and click Submit.
- You will receive an email notification containing your claim reference number.
6. Important Reminders
- Prescriptive Period: The claim must be filed within ten (10) years from the month of the member’s death.
- Non-Member Claimants: If the person who paid for the funeral is not an SSS member (and therefore cannot access My.SSS), they must file the claim over-the-counter at any SSS branch. They will still be required to provide a bank account or e-wallet for disbursement.
- Automated Crediting: Once approved, the funds are usually credited to the chosen DAEM account within 3 to 5 working days.