Manila: State-run Social Security System (SSS) announced that it has begun accepting applications for its newly launched MySSS Card.

According to Philippines News Agency, SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph Montes De Claro stated that the MySSS Card, which was launched on September 8, serves as an official identification card, replacing the Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) card. The card also functions as a fully operational debit card linked to a savings account, enhancing the financial management capabilities of SSS members.

De Claro highlighted that the MySSS Card is equipped with an EMV chip and integrated with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) eVerify and biometric authentication. This integration offers a secure and convenient method for members to access SSS benefits, loans, and conduct daily financial transactions. The card’s functionalities extend to shopping, public transport fares, and online purchases.

The card will be issued exclusively through SSS partner banks, starting with Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC). RCBC’s digital arm, DiskarTech, will be the first to implement the card’s issuance. Future partner banks will include Asia United Bank (AUB), China Bank, and Union Bank of the Philippines. De Claro noted that the MySSS Card will automatically serve as the primary disbursement account for SSS members, streamlining the process of receiving benefits and loans.

De Claro emphasized the significance of the SSS and RCBC partnership as a major step in the digital transformation of government services, with plans to expand the MySSS Card program as more partner banks participate. This expansion is expected to provide members with more options for card issuance and banking features.

Eligible for all SSS members, pensioners, individual claimants, beneficiaries, and representative payees, the MySSS Card requires possession of a permanent SSS number, an active My.SSS Portal account with updated personal details, and registration with the Philippine Statistics Authority under the National ID system. Members with existing or lost SSS or UMID cards may also apply for the MySSS Card.

The application process for the MySSS Card can be completed via My.SSS, where members select their partner bank and consent to data sharing between SSS, the National ID system, and the bank. Following online verification and identity confirmation, members can open a bank account through their online app or by visiting a branch. Specifically, RCBC members can use the DiskarTech app to open their accounts. The partner bank will be responsible for producing and distributing the cards.

Residents of Metro Manila can expect to receive their cards within 15 working days, while those residing outside Metro Manila will have a 20-working-day waiting period for card delivery.