Can Survivors of a Deceased Member Claim the SSS Calamity Loan?
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Can Survivors of a Deceased Member Claim the SSS Calamity Loan?
Imagine this: A powerful typhoon damages your family home. You just lost a loved one who was an SSS member, and now you’re facing huge financial challenges. You’ve heard about the SSS Calamity Loan and wonder:
“Pwede ba naming i-claim yung calamity loan ng pumanaw naming kamag-anak?”
This is a common question among families who lost an SSS member, especially after disasters. Since the maximum loanable amount is ₱20,000, many hope to use it for immediate recovery. But here’s the truth: the rules for survivors are different.
In this guide, we’ll explain who can claim, who cannot, and what benefits survivors may get instead.
Understanding the SSS Calamity Loan
The SSS Calamity Loan Assistance Program (CLAP) is a special loan facility for active SSS members affected by disasters in areas declared under a state of calamity.
Key Features of the Loan:
Maximum loanable amount: ₱20,000
Interest rate: 10% per year
Payment term: 24 months
Application period: Usually within 3 months after calamity declaration
Here’s the important part: The calamity loan is only for active, living SSS members. If the member has already passed away, survivors cannot apply on their behalf.
Can Survivors Claim the SSS Calamity Loan?
Short answer: ❌ No.
The SSS calamity loan is non-transferable and can only be availed by active members whose contributions are updated at the time of application. Once the member passes away:
Any existing loan obligations may still be settled via SSS’s benefit adjustments.
But survivors cannot file a new calamity loan using the deceased member’s name.
Why Survivors Cannot Avail the Calamity Loan
Here’s why SSS does not allow survivors to claim calamity loans:
Reason
Explanation
Loan Contract
A calamity loan is a personal obligation. It is tied to the member’s SSS records and capacity to pay.
Eligibility Rules
Only living, active members can apply online via My.SSS.
Repayment System
Loan repayment requires salary deduction (for employed members) or direct payment (for voluntary/self-employed), which cannot be processed for deceased members.
What Survivors Can Claim Instead
While you cannot apply for the calamity loan, survivors may still be entitled to other SSS benefits that provide financial assistance:
1. SSS Death Benefit đź’”
A one-time lump sum or monthly pension for the legal beneficiaries.
Amount depends on the member’s contributions and number of qualified dependents.
2. SSS Funeral Benefit ⚰️
Cash assistance ranging from ₱20,000 to ₱40,000.
Given to whoever paid for the burial expenses.
3. Unclaimed Benefits or Loan Refunds 🏦
If the deceased member had unclaimed benefits or loan overpayments, survivors can request refunds via SSS.
What If the Member Had an Existing Calamity Loan Before Passing Away?
If the deceased member already had an approved calamity loan before their death:
Outstanding balance is typically deducted from the death benefit before it’s released to beneficiaries.
Survivors do not need to pay the loan out of pocket unless they voluntarily agree.
Step-by-Step Guide: How Survivors Can Claim Benefits
Step 1 — Prepare the Required Documents
Death certificate
Valid IDs of the claimant
Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates)
SSS number of the deceased
Step 2 — Visit the Nearest SSS Branch
Proceed to the Member Services Section.
Request for either death, funeral, or refund claims.
Step 3 — Wait for Processing
Processing usually takes 2–6 weeks depending on the claim type.
Using the SSS Calamity Loan Calculator
Even if survivors cannot apply for the calamity loan, it’s useful to understand how the benefit works.
Plan finances better in case another family member applies in the future
Real-Life Example Scenarios
Scenario 1 — Member Passed Away Before Applying
Mario lived in a calamity area but died before filing the loan. ❌ Result: His family cannot apply for a calamity loan on his behalf.
Scenario 2 — Member Passed Away After Loan Approval
Liza applied for a calamity loan, got approved, and then passed away. âś… Result: The loan balance will be deducted from her death benefit before survivors receive it.
Scenario 3 — Another Family Member Applies
Carlo, the son of a deceased SSS member, is also an active member. âś… Result: Carlo can apply for his own calamity loan, provided his contributions and address qualify.
Tips for Families After a Member’s Passing
✅ Check unclaimed SSS benefits — you might be entitled to death, funeral, or refund claims
✅ Request the member’s SSS contribution record for verification
✅ Avoid scams — calamity loans for deceased members are not allowed
âś… Use the loan calculator to plan future financial needs
TL;DR (Quick Summary)
❌ Survivors cannot claim the SSS Calamity Loan for a deceased member.
âś… However, they can claimdeath benefits, funeral benefits, and refunds.
âś… Outstanding calamity loans are deducted from death benefits.
Losing a loved one is already difficult, and financial recovery can feel overwhelming. While survivors cannot claim the SSS Calamity Loan on behalf of a deceased member, there are other benefits designed to help families cope.
By knowing your options, preparing documents early, and understanding how loans and benefits work, you can better manage your financial situation after a disaster.
