Trying to get your CRN or SSS number can be confusing because many online forms use the phrase “CRN/SS Number” as if they are the same thing. They are related, but they are not exactly the same. Your SSS number is your lifetime membership number with the Philippine Social Security System. Your CRN, or Common Reference Number, is normally connected with the old UMID system and may appear in your My.SSS account or on an issued UMID card. For most practical purposes—employment, contribution payment, My.SSS registration, and SSS benefit transactions—what you usually need first is your SSS number.
CRN vs. SSS Number: What Is the Difference?
The SSS number is the number issued to you when you register as a member of the Social Security System. It is used for:
- Employment reporting by your employer
- SSS contribution payments
- My.SSS online account registration
- Benefit claims
- Loan applications
- Updating your member record
- Checking contributions and eligibility
The CRN is the Common Reference Number associated with the Unified Multi-Purpose ID or UMID system. In older SSS materials, the CRN appears together with the SSS number inside a member’s My.SSS account; the official My.SSS registration guide shows both an “SS Number” and a “CRN Number” on the member account page. (Social Security System)
In practice:
| If you need to… | Use this |
|---|---|
| Start working in a private company | SSS number |
| Pay SSS contributions | SSS number |
| Register for My.SSS | CRN or SSS number, depending on what you have |
| Recover your My.SSS account | CRN or SSS number |
| Apply for benefits or loans | SSS number |
| Identify an old UMID record | CRN, if available |
| Register as a new member | Apply for an SSS number first |
If the My.SSS portal asks for “CRN / SS Number,” you normally do not need both. The official My.SSS registration page itself labels the field as “CRN / SS Number,” meaning the system may accept either identifier depending on your record and registration option. (SSS Member Portal)
Legal Basis: Why You Need an SSS Number
The Social Security System is governed mainly by Republic Act No. 11199, or the Social Security Act of 2018. Under Section 9 of RA 11199, SSS coverage is compulsory for private-sector employees, including kasambahays or domestic workers, who are not over 60 years old, together with their employers.
SSS coverage is also compulsory for:
- Private-sector employees
- Kasambahays
- Self-employed persons
- Sea-based and land-based OFWs who are not over 60 years old
The SSS summarizes compulsory coverage as applying to private-sector employees, self-employed persons, and OFWs, whether sea-based or land-based. (Social Security System)
RA 11199 also requires employers to report covered employees to SSS. Section 24 provides that each employer must immediately report to the SSS the names, ages, civil status, occupations, salaries, and dependents of employees subject to compulsory coverage. This is why employers commonly ask new hires for their SSS number before or shortly after onboarding.
For OFWs, the Supreme Court discussed the compulsory SSS coverage introduced by RA 11199 in Migrante International v. Social Security System, G.R. No. 248680, explaining that coverage applies to sea-based and land-based OFWs as defined under the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act. (Supreme Court E-Library)
Who Can Apply for an SSS Number?
You may apply for an SSS number if you fall under any of these categories:
Prospective employee Someone applying for work or about to start private-sector employment.
Currently employed private-sector worker Including rank-and-file, managerial, probationary, project-based, seasonal, and other employees covered by law.
Kasambahay A household worker covered by the Kasambahay Law and SSS rules.
Self-employed person Such as a professional, sole proprietor, freelancer, market vendor, farmer, fisherfolk, driver, online seller, or other person earning income outside employment.
OFW Including sea-based and land-based overseas Filipino workers.
Non-working spouse A married person devoting full time to household and family affairs, if qualified under SSS rules.
Foreigner working in the Philippines If a foreign national is employed by an employer carrying on business or activity in the Philippines, SSS coverage may apply in the same way as other private-sector employment, subject to applicable treaty or administrative arrangements. SSS defines an employer broadly as any natural or juridical person, domestic or foreign, carrying on business or activity in the Philippines and using the services of another person under his orders, except the government and its instrumentalities. (Social Security System)
How to Get an SSS Number Online
SSS has made online registration mandatory for prospective employees, self-employed persons, non-working spouses, and OFWs. The SSS states that, effective July 15, 2020, it enforced mandatory online registration to issue SS numbers more quickly and conveniently, in line with Republic Act No. 11032, the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. (Social Security System)
Step-by-Step Online SSS Number Application
Go to the official SSS website. Use the official SSS website and choose the option to apply for an SS number online.
Start the SS number application. Read the procedure, then click the button to start.
Fill out the registrant verification form. Enter your basic information carefully. This usually includes your name, birth date, email address, and other identifying details.
Check your email. SSS will send a link to continue your SS number application. The SSS states that this link is valid for five calendar days only; if it expires, you need to submit a new online application. (Social Security System)
Complete your personal information. You will be asked for basic information, contact information, home address, social status, place of birth, and purpose of registration.
Add beneficiaries. SSS will ask for details of beneficiaries, such as father, mother, spouse, children, and other beneficiaries if applicable.
Create your preferred My.SSS user ID. During the online process, you may be asked to provide your preferred My.SSS user ID and personal details such as height and weight.
Review everything before generating your SSS number. This is important. SSS warns that once the SS number is generated, you will need to go to an SSS branch to correct wrong information. (Social Security System)
Generate your SSS number. After confirming that the information is correct, the system will generate your SSS number.
Upload supporting documents, if available. SSS allows uploading of a readable colored image in JPEG or PDF format, with a maximum file size of 3 MB, for tagging of the SS number as an application with approved supporting documents. (Social Security System)
Download and save your documents. After the application, the system displays and emails your:
- SS Number Slip
- Transaction Number Slip
- Personal Record / Unified Multi-Purpose ID Card Application, also known as the E-1/E-6 form
- Activate your My.SSS account. SSS sends an activation link for password nomination. The official instructions state that this link is valid for 30 calendar days; if it expires, you may register in My.SSS using the transaction number shown in your E-1 as your registration preference. (Social Security System)
Documents You Need to Get or Permanently Tag Your SSS Number
You can generate an SSS number online even before completing document validation, but this may result in a temporary status. A temporary SSS number can be used for contribution purposes, but SSS states that a member must have a permanent SS number to become eligible for benefits or loans. (Social Security System)
Common Primary Documents
SSS lists the birth certificate as the main document. If the birth certificate is unavailable, SSS accepts other documents such as:
- Baptismal certificate
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- PhilSys ID or ePhilID
- PRC card
- SSS digitized ID
- Seaman’s Book
- UMID Card
SSS also lists secondary documents that may be accepted if the primary document is unavailable, including Alien Certificate of Registration, bank passbook, company ID, NBI clearance, PhilHealth ID or MDR, police clearance, postal ID, school ID, TIN card, and others. (Social Security System)
Practical Document Table
| Situation | Best document to prepare | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| Filipino born in the Philippines | PSA birth certificate | Make sure the name and birth date match your application |
| Filipino without available birth certificate | Baptismal certificate, passport, driver’s license, PhilSys ID, or other accepted document | You may need additional secondary IDs |
| Married applicant | Marriage certificate, if marital status must be reflected | Use PSA copy when possible |
| OFW | Passport, OEC/e-receipt if relevant, foreign address | Use the same name format as your passport |
| Foreigner working in the Philippines | Passport and Alien Certificate of Registration, if applicable | Foreign-language documents may need official English translation |
| Name discrepancy | PSA record, passport, court order, or other supporting document | Expect branch verification if the discrepancy is material |
SSS reminds members that ID cards or documents should bear the complete name, clear signature, and clear recognizable photo. For documents issued by a foreign government in a foreign language, SSS requires an official English translation by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate. (Social Security System)
Temporary vs. Permanent SSS Number
Many applicants think that once they receive an SSS number, the process is fully complete. That is not always true.
A newly generated SSS number may be tagged as temporary if the required supporting documents have not yet been approved. SSS says a temporary SS number can be used for contribution purposes only. To qualify for benefits or loans, the number must be tagged as permanent. (Social Security System)
How to Change a Temporary SSS Number to Permanent
- Prepare your PSA birth certificate or accepted primary document.
- If you do not have a primary document, prepare two accepted secondary IDs, both with signature and at least one with photo.
- Submit the documents through the available SSS channel or nearest SSS branch, depending on the current transaction rules.
- Check your My.SSS account after processing to confirm that your status has been updated.
Why This Matters
If your SSS number remains temporary, you may later encounter problems when applying for:
- Sickness benefit
- Maternity benefit
- Disability benefit
- Retirement benefit
- Death or funeral benefit claims by beneficiaries
- Salary loan or other member loans
- MySSS Card
How to Find Your Existing SSS Number
If you already registered before, do not apply for another SSS number. SSS specifically reminds members that the SS number is a unique lifetime number and should always be used in SSS transactions; if you registered in the past and cannot remember it, you should coordinate with SSS rather than apply for a new number. (Social Security System)
You can try these options first:
1. Check Your My.SSS Account
If you can still log in, your SSS number usually appears in your member profile or account page. The MySSS mobile app also allows members to view membership details, monthly contributions, and UMID/SS ID details. (Social Security System)
2. Check Your Old Employment Documents
Look for your SSS number in:
- Old company onboarding forms
- Payslips
- Certificate of employment attachments
- HR records
- SSS contribution printouts
- Loan documents
- Maternity or sickness benefit records
3. Check Your E-1 Form or SS Number Slip
If you applied online, you may have received an email with your:
- SS Number Slip
- Transaction Number Slip
- E-1/E-6 form
Search your email inbox for terms like “SSS,” “SS Number,” “E-1,” or “Transaction Number.”
4. Ask Your Current or Previous Employer
Employers report employees to SSS and remit contributions under employees’ SSS numbers. If you previously worked in the private sector, HR or payroll may have your number in their records.
5. Visit or Contact SSS Through Official Channels
If you cannot retrieve your number online, prepare valid IDs and contact SSS through official channels. The SSS website lists the SSS Hotline 1455 and email usssaptayo@sss.gov.ph for inquiries. (Social Security System)
How to Get Your CRN
If you are asking specifically for your CRN, first check whether you actually need it. Many people ask for a CRN only because a website says “CRN/SS Number.” In that situation, your SSS number is usually enough.
You may find your CRN through:
Your My.SSS account Some member accounts display both the SS number and CRN, especially where a UMID-related record exists.
Your old UMID card If you were issued a UMID card, the CRN is usually printed on the card.
SSS records or branch verification If you need the CRN for a specific SSS transaction and cannot see it online, ask SSS to verify your record using your SSS number and valid ID.
MySSS Card process, if applicable SSS has introduced the MySSS Card as the new official functional ID. It is equipped with an EMV chip and replaces the old UMID card, although previously issued SSS cards remain valid. (Social Security System)
UMID, CRN, and the New MySSS Card
The old UMID system used biometric matching to prevent multiple cards. SSS explains that UMID applications passing the uniqueness check are assigned a Common Reference Number (CRN) and then sent for card printing and personalization. (Social Security System)
However, SSS has now rolled out the MySSS Card. According to SSS, the MySSS Card is the new official functional ID issued by SSS, equipped with an EMV chip, and it replaces the old UMID card. Previously issued SSS cards remain valid. (Social Security System)
Who Can Apply for the MySSS Card?
SSS states that members, prior registrants, pensioners, individual claimants, and representative payees may apply if they meet these requirements:
- Permanent SS number
- Registered My.SSS Portal account
- Updated local address, mobile number, and email in SSS records
- PSA/National ID registration
SSS also says the name and date of birth in the SSS and National ID records should match before applying. (Social Security System)
MySSS Card Processing Time
The MySSS Card process is done through the My.SSS portal and a partner bank. SSS states that the card may be released within 15 working days in Metro Manila and 20 working days outside Metro Manila after successful account opening, depending on the partner bank’s process. (Social Security System)
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Wrong Name, Birth Date, or Civil Status
This is one of the most common issues. If your online application contains a wrong birth date, misspelled name, or incorrect civil status, you may need branch-level correction.
Avoid this by using the exact information in your PSA birth certificate or passport. Do not guess your mother’s maiden name, place of birth, or suffix.
Applying for a Second SSS Number
Never apply for a new SSS number just because you forgot the old one. Multiple SSS numbers can delay benefits, confuse contribution records, and require formal consolidation or correction.
Temporary Number Not Converted to Permanent
If you generated an SSS number online but did not upload or submit documents, your number may remain temporary. This may not stop an employer from reporting contributions, but it can affect benefits and loans later.
Email Link Expired
The SS number application continuation link is valid for five calendar days, while the My.SSS activation link is valid for 30 calendar days. Missing these deadlines means repeating parts of the process or registering through another preference. (Social Security System)
Foreign Documents Not Translated
If your document was issued abroad and is not in English, prepare an official English translation by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate. SSS specifically notes this requirement for foreign-government-issued documents in foreign languages. (Social Security System)
Employer Has Not Reported You
Your employer is legally required to report covered employees and remit contributions. RA 11199 imposes consequences on employers that fail to report or remit proper contributions, especially when the failure reduces or affects benefits.
Fees and Timelines
| Transaction | Fee | Usual timeline or note |
|---|---|---|
| Online SSS number application | Free | SSS number may be generated online after completing the process |
| Uploading supporting documents | Free | File must be readable; SSS states JPEG or PDF up to 3 MB |
| Changing temporary to permanent | Usually free | Depends on document review and branch/system processing |
| My.SSS account registration | Free | Activation link is time-limited |
| MySSS Card | Bank may charge a fee | SSS says bank fees depend on partner bank policy |
| MySSS Card release | Bank-dependent | SSS states 15 working days in Metro Manila and 20 working days outside Metro Manila after successful account opening |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CRN the same as the SSS number?
No. The SSS number is your lifetime membership number with SSS. The CRN is associated with UMID or card-related identity records. If an online form says “CRN/SS Number,” you can usually use your SSS number if you do not have a CRN.
How do I get my SSS number for the first time?
Apply through the official SSS online SS number issuance facility. Complete the online form, verify through the email link, review your information carefully, generate your SSS number, and save your SS Number Slip, Transaction Number Slip, and E-1/E-6 form.
Can I get an SSS number without a job?
Yes. You may apply as a prospective employee, self-employed person, OFW, or other eligible member category. Many first-time jobseekers get their SSS number before formal employment.
Can I use a temporary SSS number for work?
Yes, a temporary SSS number can be used for contribution purposes. However, SSS states that you need a permanent SS number to become eligible for benefits or loans, so you should complete your documentation as soon as possible. (Social Security System)
I forgot my SSS number. Should I apply again?
No. Your SSS number is a lifetime number. Check your My.SSS account, old employment records, email, E-1 form, payslips, or ask your employer. If you still cannot find it, verify your record with SSS using valid identification.
Where can I find my CRN?
Check your old UMID card or your My.SSS account. If you do not see a CRN but you have an SSS number, use the SSS number for most transactions that ask for “CRN/SS Number.”
Can foreigners get an SSS number in the Philippines?
Foreign nationals working for covered employers in the Philippines may be subject to SSS coverage, depending on their employment arrangement and any applicable social security agreement. They should prepare valid identification such as a passport and, where applicable, an Alien Certificate of Registration.
Is the old UMID card still valid?
Yes. SSS says previously issued SSS cards, including UMID, remain valid. However, the MySSS Card is now the new official functional ID issued by SSS and replaces the old UMID card for new card issuance purposes. (Social Security System)
Do I need a CRN to create a My.SSS account?
Not necessarily. The My.SSS registration field asks for “CRN / SS Number,” and the registration guide instructs members to enter their CRN or SS number. If you have your SSS number, use it. (Social Security System)
What happens if my employer did not remit my SSS contributions?
Under RA 11199, employers have reporting and remittance obligations. If non-reporting or under-remittance reduces the employee’s benefits, the employer may be liable for damages, unremitted contributions, and penalties.
Key Takeaways
- Your SSS number is the important lifetime number you need for employment, contributions, benefits, loans, and My.SSS access.
- Your CRN is different from your SSS number and is usually connected with UMID or card-related records.
- If a form asks for “CRN/SS Number,” your SSS number is usually acceptable.
- First-time applicants should apply for an SSS number online through the official SSS website.
- Review your information carefully before generating your SSS number because corrections may require an SSS branch visit.
- A temporary SSS number can receive contributions, but a permanent SSS number is needed for benefits and loans.
- Do not apply for a second SSS number if you forgot your old one.
- The old UMID card remains valid, but SSS now uses the MySSS Card as its new official functional ID.