Understanding SSS Maternity Filing Deadlines in 2026
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Understanding SSS Maternity Filing Deadlines in 2026
Applying for SSS Maternity Benefits can be exciting yet stressful for new and expecting moms. One of the biggest reasons applications get delayed or denied is because of missed filing deadlines.
In 2026, SSS continues to follow strict rules on when to file your maternity notification and benefit claim — and these deadlines vary depending on your delivery date, membership type, and mode of filing.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about SSS maternity filing deadlines for 2026, how to avoid missing them, and how to verify your eligibility using the 👉 SSS Maternity Qualifying Period Calculator 2026.
đź’ˇ Why Filing Deadlines Matter in 2026
Even if you’ve paid your SSS contributions and meet all requirements, you can still lose your maternity benefit if you file too late.
The Social Security System (SSS) requires members to file two separate submissions:
Maternity Notification (before delivery)
Maternity Benefit Claim (after delivery)
Missing either of these can disqualify your claim — or cause months of delay.
This must be filed before your delivery, miscarriage, or termination of pregnancy.
Member Type
Deadline
Where to File
Employed
Before delivery (file through your employer)
Employer submits online via My.SSS Employer Account
Voluntary / Self-Employed
Before delivery
My.SSS account or nearest SSS branch
OFW
Before delivery (if abroad, submit online)
My.SSS account or through accredited SSS office abroad
✅ You only need to file once — before giving birth. The maternity benefit claim comes after.
2. Maternity Benefit Claim (After Delivery)
This is filed after childbirth, miscarriage, or emergency termination.
Member Type
Deadline to File
Where to File
Employed
Within 10 years from delivery
Employer files through My.SSS
Voluntary / Self-Employed / OFW
Within 10 years from delivery
File directly online or at the nearest SSS branch
⚠️ However, your notification must have been submitted before birth. Late notifications automatically invalidate the claim, even if filed within 10 years.
đź“… Common Filing Timeline Examples for 2026
Expected Delivery Date (EDD)
Maternity Notification Deadline
Earliest Claim Filing Date
Latest Claim Filing Date
February 2026
On or before January 2026
After February 2026
February 2036
June 2026
On or before May 2026
After June 2026
June 2036
October 2026
On or before September 2026
After October 2026
October 2036
🧮 How to Check Your Deadline Using the SSS Maternity Calculator
Clarisse’s Story – Office Worker Turned Freelancer
Clarisse from Makati had her EDD in May 2026. She resigned in January and forgot to file her maternity notification as a voluntary member. By the time she checked in April, it was too late — SSS didn’t accept her late notice. If she had filed earlier using the calculator, her benefits would’ve been approved smoothly.
Rowena’s Story – OFW on Vacation Leave
Rowena, an OFW from Dubai, had her EDD in November 2026. She filed her maternity notification online while still abroad, months before her vacation. When she gave birth in Manila, her claim was processed instantly because she met the filing deadline.
Dianne’s Story – Newly Married Teacher
Dianne from Baguio filed her maternity notification through her employer in December 2025 for her February 2026 delivery. Her HR department handled everything on time, and her maternity pay was released without issue.
Leah’s Story – Market Vendor and First-Time Mom
Leah from Iloilo didn’t know she needed to notify SSS before giving birth. Her EDD was August 2026, and she filed only after delivery — her claim was denied. Since then, she’s been reminding other moms to file early and check deadlines online.
⚙️ SSS Verification Process for Filing Deadlines
When you file your maternity notification, SSS verifies:
Your posted contributions – at least 3 valid payments in the qualifying period
Your EDD – matches your medical certificate or ultrasound
Your filing date – must be before your delivery date
If all details match, your notification is tagged as “Valid”. Otherwise, you’ll need to correct or refile.
🧾 Sample Timeline: EDD in June 2026
EDD: June 15, 2026
Semester of Contingency: Jan–Jun 2026
Qualifying Period: Jan–Dec 2025
Deadline for Notification:Before June 2026 (preferably April 2026)
Benefit Claim: Can be filed after delivery, anytime until June 2036
🧮 Tip: Always file at least 1–2 months before EDD to avoid last-minute rejections.
đźš« Common Mistakes That Lead to Missed Deadlines
Use the calculator to check your qualifying period and deadlines early.
Always file 1–2 months before your EDD to avoid processing issues.
âť“ FAQs About SSS Maternity Filing Deadlines
1. Can I still file after giving birth? No. The maternity notification must be filed before delivery. Only the benefit claim can be filed after.
2. What if I filed the wrong EDD? You can correct it by submitting a medical certificate and resubmitting before your actual delivery.
3. How long does SSS take to process maternity claims? Usually 7–15 working days for online submissions, depending on verification.
4. Can I reuse my old maternity notification for another pregnancy? No. Each pregnancy requires a new maternity notification.
5. What if my employer forgets to file my notification? You can file it yourself through your My.SSS account to ensure it’s submitted on time.
❤️ Final Advice
Filing deadlines are strict — but easy to meet if you plan early. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, or abroad, make sure your maternity notification is submitted before your EDD.
