For many first-time moms applying for SSS Maternity Benefits in 2026, one of the most confusing parts is figuring out the difference between the Qualifying Period and the Filing Period. These two terms sound similar, but they refer to very different stages in the maternity benefit process — and mixing them up could mean losing your eligibility or missing your filing deadline.
In this article, we’ll clearly explain both, show you real-life examples of how they work, and help you make sure you qualify and file your maternity claim on time. You’ll also learn how to use the 👉 SSS Maternity Qualifying Period Calculator 2026 to check your eligibility instantly.
đź’ˇ What Is the SSS Qualifying Period?
The Qualifying Period is the 12-month window that SSS uses to determine if you are eligible for maternity benefits. It’s calculated as follows:
Identify your Expected Delivery Date (EDD).
Find the semester of contingency (the 6-month period including your EDD and the previous quarter).
Exclude that semester.
The 12 months before that form your Qualifying Period.
Example
If your EDD is May 2026, the semester of contingency is January–June 2026, so your qualifying period is January–December 2025. You must have at least 3 monthly contributions within that period to qualify.
🗓️ What Is the SSS Filing Period?
The Filing Period is the timeframe when you need to submit your maternity notification and claim to SSS. Even if you’re qualified, failing to file on time can result in the denial of your claim.
Filing Deadlines to Remember
Before childbirth or miscarriage: You must notify SSS of your pregnancy as soon as possible.
After childbirth: You must file your maternity benefit claim within 10 years from your date of delivery. However, if you’re employed, your employer should file your maternity notification before you take your leave.
⚖️ Key Difference Between Qualifying Period and Filing Period
Term
Meaning
Purpose
Example (EDD: May 2026)
Qualifying Period
12 months before the semester of contingency
Determines if you are eligible for maternity benefits
January–December 2025
Filing Period
Time allowed to file maternity notification or claim
Ensures your benefit is properly processed and paid
Notify SSS before delivery; claim within 10 years
In short: âś… Qualifying Period = Eligibility âś… Filing Period = Timing of submission
đź“… Step-by-Step Qualifying Period Examples for 2026
Example 1 – EDD: February 2026
Semester of contingency: Q1 2026 + Q4 2025
✅ Qualifying Period: October 2024 – September 2025
Example 2 – EDD: June 2026
Semester of contingency: Q2 2026 + Q1 2026
✅ Qualifying Period: January 2025 – December 2025
Clarisse’s Story – Office Worker Turned Freelancer
Clarisse from Makati had her EDD in May 2026. She thought she missed her benefit because she resigned. After checking her qualifying period (Jan–Dec 2025), she realized she had enough paid months and filed her maternity notification online before her delivery — her benefit was approved smoothly.
Rowena’s Story – OFW on Vacation Leave
Rowena from Dubai, due in November 2026, resumed her voluntary contributions in 2025. Her qualifying period was July 2025–June 2026. She filed her notification through My.SSS before returning abroad — avoiding delays.
Leah’s Story – Market Vendor and First-Time Mom
Leah from Iloilo didn’t know she had to file early. She gave birth in August 2026 but only notified SSS after delivery. Her claim was still accepted because she was a voluntary member, but she learned that early filing avoids complications.
Dianne’s Story – Public School Teacher
Dianne from Baguio, with an EDD in February 2026, filed her maternity leave early through her employer. Her HR department submitted her notification before her leave — ensuring smooth benefit disbursement.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Confusing Qualifying Period with Filing Period — Eligibility ≠Submission timing.
Late notification — especially for voluntary or self-employed members.
Not using the calculator — leading to wrong contribution assumptions.
Relying on old contributions — payments outside your qualifying period won’t count.
Missing deadlines — even if qualified, late filing causes delays.
đź’¬ TL;DR (Quick Summary)
🗓️ Qualifying Period = 12 months before the semester of contingency (for eligibility).
🧾 Filing Period = When to notify or claim (for processing).
âś… Both must be correct for approval.
đź’» Use the SSS Maternity Qualifying Period Calculator 2026 to know your correct dates.
âť“ FAQs About Qualifying Period and Filing Period
1. Can I file my maternity notification after giving birth? Yes, but only if you’re voluntary or self-employed. Employed members must notify before delivery.
2. Does filing early guarantee approval? No, but it ensures your record is updated and your contributions are verified before giving birth.
3. What happens if I filed on time but didn’t meet the contribution requirement? You won’t qualify for the benefit, even if you filed correctly.
4. How do I file my maternity notification? You can file via the My.SSS online portal, the SSS Mobile App, or your nearest SSS branch.
5. What’s the safe window for filing? File as soon as pregnancy is confirmed — ideally within the first trimester.
❤️ Final Advice
The qualifying period ensures you’re eligible, and the filing period ensures your claim gets processed. Both work hand in hand — missing either could mean missing your benefit.
Before your due date, confirm your eligibility today using the 👉 SSS Maternity Qualifying Period Calculator 2026 and file your maternity notification early for a worry-free SSS maternity claim. 💕
