What Are Possible Reasons Why SSS Maternity Benefits Are Denied?

Picture this: kakapanganak mo lang, and you’re excited kasi finally makukuha mo na ang SSS Maternity Benefit na makakatulong sa gastos. Pero nang i-check mo ang status, denied ang claim mo. Nakakapanlumo, lalo na kung umaasa ka talaga dito for financial support habang nagre-recover ka.

The SSS Maternity Benefit is a big help for Filipino mothers — whether employed, self-employed, or voluntary members. Pero gaya ng ibang government benefits, may strict requirements ito. If something is missing or incorrect, puwede itong ma-deny. This guide will explain the possible reasons why your claim can be denied, at kung paano mo ito maiwasan.

What Is SSS Maternity Benefit?

The SSS Maternity Benefit is a cash allowance given to qualified female SSS members who cannot work due to:

Normal or Cesarean Delivery → 105 days leave with pay
Solo Parent (with valid Solo Parent ID) → 120 days leave with pay
Miscarriage, Stillbirth, or Emergency Termination of Pregnancy → 60 days leave with pay

This benefit helps mothers recover financially while bonding with their newborn. Kaya lang, kahit qualified ka in theory, puwede pa ring ma-deny ang application mo.

Possible Reasons Why SSS Maternity Benefits Are Denied

1. Kulang o Walang Contributions

SSS requires at least 3 monthly contributions within the 12 months before your semester of delivery.

Example:

Due date: October 2025
Semester of delivery: July–December 2025
Counting period for contributions: July 2024–June 2025
Requirement: At least 3 monthly contributions in that period

Kung wala o kulang ka ng hulog, automatic denied ang claim.

2. Late Filing of Maternity Notification

You must notify SSS before giving birth:

Employed members – employer will file for you.
Voluntary/Self-employed members – ikaw mismo ang dapat mag-file via My.SSS or sa branch.

If you gave birth bago ka nag-file, chances are denied ang benefit.

3. Incomplete or Missing Documents

SSS needs proper documents para ma-process ang claim. Commonly required:

Maternity Notification Form
Proof of pregnancy (ultrasound, pregnancy test)
Child’s birth certificate
Valid IDs

If kulang ang isa, pwedeng ma-deny or ma-delay ang claim.

4. Employer Error or Negligence

For employed moms, the employer must:

Advance your maternity benefit
File reimbursement with SSS

If HR fails to submit correct documents or files late, it could lead to denial or delay.

5. Wrong or Inconsistent Information

Mali ang spelling ng pangalan, SSS number, or date of birth? Kahit maliit na clerical error, puwede itong maging dahilan ng denial.

💡 Tip: Always double-check forms before submission.

6. Inactive SSS Membership

If you stopped paying contributions (lalo na sa voluntary/self-employed), your membership is inactive. Only active paying members are entitled to claim benefits.

7. Duplicate or Invalid Claims

Sometimes, claims get denied dahil:

Na-file mo na dati at nagka-duplicate entry
Invalid maternity type (e.g., wrong coding between normal and cesarean)

SSS will flag these cases automatically.

What To Do If Your Claim Was Denied

Check the Denial Notice – SSS will state the reason for denial.
Provide Missing Requirements – submit documents or corrected details.
File for Reconsideration – visit the nearest SSS branch with supporting proof.
Coordinate With HR – if employer’s fault, sila dapat mag-comply.
Keep Contributions Updated – para sa next pregnancy, sure ka na.

💡 Before applying, test your eligibility using the SSS Maternity Benefits Calculator. It shows if your contributions are enough and how much benefit you can expect.

How to Avoid Denials in the Future

Always pay contributions on time.
File maternity notification early once pregnancy is confirmed.
Keep copies of all documents (digital + hard copy).
Regularly check your SSS online account for contributions.
Coordinate closely with your employer’s HR.

TL;DR (Quick Summary)

Common reasons for denial: kulang contributions, late notification, missing documents, employer errors, inactive membership, or wrong info.
Always notify SSS early and pay your contributions consistently.
Use the SSS Maternity Benefits Calculator to avoid surprises before filing.

FAQs

1. How many contributions do I need for maternity benefits?
At least 3 contributions within the 12 months before your semester of delivery.

2. What if I filed my maternity notification late?
Late filings usually lead to denial. Always file before delivery.

3. Can I still get benefits if I resigned from my job?
Yes, as long as you are still qualified based on contributions and filed notification on time.

4. What happens if my employer didn’t file my claim properly?
Your employer is obligated to file. Follow up with HR immediately.

5. Can I reapply if my claim was denied?
Yes, if you can provide missing requirements or correct errors, you can file for reconsideration.

✅ Knowing the possible reasons why SSS maternity benefits are denied helps you prepare and avoid mistakes. With proper filing and updated contributions, you can ensure smooth approval of your claim.