How to Claim Maternity Benefits in SSS for Voluntary Members
/
How to Claim Maternity Benefits in SSS for Voluntary Members
Being a voluntary member of the Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines doesn’t mean missing out on important benefits—especially when it comes to maternity support. If you’re self-employed, an OFW, or an unemployed former employee who continued your SSS contributions, you’re still entitled to receive SSS Maternity Benefits—as long as you meet certain qualifications.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to claim your maternity benefitⓘ as a voluntary SSS member in 2025.
âś… Who is a Voluntary Member?
A voluntary member is someone who is no longer formally employed but continues to pay SSS contributions on their own. This includes:
Former employees who are now unemployed
Self-employed individuals
Land-based OFWs
Non-working spouses
If you’re in this category, you can still qualify for the SSS Maternity Benefit.
đź“‹ Eligibility Requirements for Maternity Benefit
To claim the SSS maternity benefit as a voluntary member, you must meet the following conditions:
Paid at least three (3) monthly contributions within the 12-month period before the semester of childbirth or miscarriage
Filed a Maternity Notificationⓘ (MAT-1) with SSS before delivery or immediately after miscarriage
Must not be employed at the time of childbirth (or else the claim must be processed through the employer)
đź“ť Step-by-Step: How to Claim Maternity Benefit as a Voluntary Member
Step 1: Notify SSS of Your Pregnancy (MAT-1)
File your Maternity Notification Form (MAT-1) with SSS before your expected delivery date. You can do this through:
The SSS Mobile App
The My.SSS online portal
Any SSS branch office
Attach supporting documentsⓘ such as an ultrasound report or a confinement periodⓘ, and the member’s inability to work. For sickness benefits, thi?" title="A medical certificate is a formal document issued by a licensed physician stating the diagnosis, confinement period, and the member’s inability to work. For sickness benefits, thi?">medical certificateⓘ confirming pregnancy and estimated delivery date.
Step 2: Wait for Childbirth or Outcome
Once you give birth, have a miscarriage, or undergo an emergency pregnancy termination, you’ll need to prepare the final documents to claim your benefit.
After childbirth, file the Maternity Benefit Application Form (MAT-2). Include the following documents:
MAT-2 Form (completely filled out)
Child’s birth certificate (certified by PSA or local civil registrar)
2 valid IDs (with photo and signature)
Proof of SSS contributions
Bank account details (preferably a PESONet-participating bank)
If you had a miscarriage, submit medical reports or hospital records instead of a birth certificate
Step 4: Submit Documents to SSS
You can submit your MAT-2 documents through:
The SSS online portal (upload scanned copies)
Drop-box system at your nearest SSS branch
Over-the-counter at SSS offices
Step 5: Wait for SSS Processing
Once approved, the maternity benefit will be deposited to your registered bank account. Processing may take 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of your documents and system queue.
đź’ˇ How Much Will You Receive?
The amount you’ll receive depends on your Monthly Salary Creditⓘ (MSC) and the number of contributions paid.
To get an estimate, you can use this free and easy tool:
Simply input your past contributions and expected delivery date to calculate your benefit amount.
đź“Ś Key Reminders
You don’t need an employer to claim maternity benefits as a voluntary member.
File your MAT-1 before childbirth to avoid disqualification.
Use a bank account enrolled with PESONet to receive your benefit faster.
Keep copies of all documents and submit only clear, certified, or notarized files (if required).
âś… Final Thoughts
Claiming your SSS maternity benefit as a voluntary member is a straightforward process—as long as you’re consistent with your contributions and mindful of deadlines. Whether you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or an OFW, SSS still provides essential financial protection during your pregnancy and recovery period.
