The Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) Card, issued primarily by the Social Security System (SSS) to its members, serves as a consolidated government identification document that facilitates access to social security benefits, PhilHealth services, Pag-IBIG Fund transactions, and various other public and private services. In cases of loss, theft, or damage, SSS members may apply for replacement. As of 2026, the traditional UMID Card is transitioning to the MySSS Card, the new official functional identification card equipped with an EMV chip that also functions as a debit card linked to a partner bank account. Old UMID Cards remain valid, but replacement applications now route through the MySSS Card system for enhanced security and utility.

This article examines the legal foundations, eligibility criteria, documentary requirements, online application procedures, fees, processing timelines, delivery mechanisms, and related legal considerations governing the replacement of a lost UMID Card in the Philippine jurisdiction.

Legal Framework

The issuance and replacement of UMID Cards derive authority from Republic Act No. 11199, the Social Security Act of 2018, which empowers the SSS to provide identification mechanisms for its members. Complementary regulations stem from SSS Board resolutions and circulars that operationalize card production, data management, and replacement protocols. The integration with the Philippine Identification System (PhilID) under Republic Act No. 11055 further enables identity verification through the National ID eVerify system, streamlining online processes while ensuring data interoperability across government agencies.

Data privacy protections fall under Republic Act No. 10173, the Data Privacy Act of 2012, obligating the SSS to safeguard personal and biometric information. Unauthorized use or fraudulent procurement of a replacement card may constitute offenses under the Revised Penal Code (e.g., falsification of documents under Articles 171-172) or the Cybercrime Prevention Act (Republic Act No. 10175), subjecting violators to imprisonment, fines, and civil liabilities. Members bear the responsibility to report losses promptly to mitigate risks of identity fraud.

Eligibility for Replacement

Any SSS member, pensioner, individual claimant, or representative payee with a permanent SS number and at least one posted contribution qualifies for replacement upon loss of their UMID Card. The process extends to prior UMID holders seeking the upgraded MySSS Card. Eligibility requires:

An active and fully registered My.SSS Portal account.
Updated personal records (name, date of birth, address, mobile number, and email) in SSS databases.
Consistency between SSS records and National ID (PhilID) data.
No pending disqualifications, such as unresolved contribution delinquencies that might affect record verification.

Replacement due to loss differs from first-time applications (which are free) or updates for name changes, marital status, or corrections.

Documentary and Other Requirements

For a lost UMID Card, applicants typically prepare:

A notarized Affidavit of Loss detailing the circumstances of the loss, the member's full name, SS number, approximate date and place of loss, and a declaration that the card has not been found or used fraudulently. While the MySSS Card online process emphasizes digital verification, submission or declaration of loss remains advisable for record purposes and fraud prevention.
At least one primary valid government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver's license, PhilID) or two secondary IDs.
Proof of payment for the replacement fee.

In the MySSS Card system, biometric requirements shift to online facial recognition and National ID photo via eVerify, eliminating the need for in-person data capture at SSS branches.

Members should first report the loss through the My.SSS Portal or SSS hotline to flag the old card for deactivation upon new card issuance.

Step-by-Step Online Application Process for Replacement

The SSS has digitized the replacement process through the My.SSS Member Portal, minimizing branch visits. The procedure for replacing a lost UMID via the MySSS Card consists of two main phases:

My.SSS Portal Phase (Online Initiation and Verification):
- Access the official My.SSS Member Portal at member.sss.gov.ph and log in with registered credentials. New users must register and complete full verification.
- Navigate to the "Services" menu and select "MySSS Card."
- Review and update personal information (address, contact details) to ensure accuracy.
- Provide consent for SSS to verify identity using the National ID eVerify system and utilize the National ID photo.
- Complete the online facial scan (liveness detection) for biometric matching.
- Select the preferred SSS partner bank (e.g., RCBC as the initial rollout partner; additional banks follow).
- Agree to data-sharing terms between SSS and the bank for account opening and card production.
- Receive immediate confirmation via on-screen message, email, and My.SSS inbox notification.
Bank Phase (Account Opening and Card Issuance):
- Download the partner bank's mobile application or visit a branch as instructed.
- Complete the bank's account opening and verification process.
- Pay any bank-specific fees within the stipulated period to avoid cancellation.

The entire SSS-side process occurs online without requiring a physical branch appointment for biometrics, marking a significant advancement in accessibility.

Fees and Payment

A standard replacement fee of ₱200 applies for lost or damaged UMID/MySSS Cards, payable through SSS-accredited channels (e.g., online banking, GCash, Bayad Center) or at partner banks during the account setup. Banks may impose additional charges for the EMV debit card or account maintenance, as disclosed in their terms. First-time UMID issuances remain free of charge. Failure to settle fees within prescribed periods results in application cancellation.

Processing Time, Delivery, and Claiming the Card

Processing typically spans 15 working days (Metro Manila) to 20 working days (provincial areas) after successful bank account opening. The partner bank notifies the member via SMS, email, or app when the MySSS Card is ready for pickup at designated branches or delivery to the registered address. Authorized representatives may claim the card upon proper documentation and bank authorization. Members can track status through the My.SSS Portal and the bank's platform.

Delays may arise from discrepancies in records, high application volume, or incomplete bank verification. Members must ensure their mailing address and contact details are current to avoid non-delivery issues.

Important Legal and Practical Considerations

Fraud Prevention and Security: Prompt reporting of loss deactivates the old card. The MySSS Card's EMV technology and chip enhance security against skimming and cloning. Members should safeguard the new card and immediately report any subsequent issues.
Data Privacy and Rights: Applicants consent to data sharing but retain rights to access, correction, and deletion under the Data Privacy Act. SSS maintains strict protocols for biometric and personal data.
Special Cases: For stolen cards, attaching a police blotter to the Affidavit of Loss strengthens the application. Overseas Filipino workers or members abroad may coordinate through SSS foreign branches or authorized representatives.
Validity and Multi-Purpose Use: The MySSS Card retains all UMID functionalities while adding banking features. It does not expire, provided membership status remains active.
Common Issues and Remedies: Mismatched records require updates via My.SSS or branch. Facial scan failures may necessitate branch assistance. For non-receipt of cards, submit a notarized Affidavit of Non-Receipt.
GSIS-Issued UMID: Government employees under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) follow parallel but separate procedures through GSIS portals or branches.

Members are encouraged to maintain accurate SSS records and utilize the My.SSS Portal for all transactions to expedite future services. The online replacement mechanism reflects the Philippine government's ongoing digital transformation of public services, balancing efficiency, security, and accessibility under prevailing laws and regulations.