SSS: Use online platform to file sickness, maternity benefit reimbursement claims

The Social Security System (SSS) reminds covered employers that Sickness Benefit Reimbursement Applications (SBRAs) and Maternity Benefit Reimbursement Applications (MBRAs) can now be submitted online through the My.SSS Portal at www.sss.gov.ph.

The online filing of SBRAs and MBRAs, which were introduced in July 2020 and May 2021, respectively, can be accessed through the E-Services tab of the employers’ My.SSS accounts.

The online submission of SBRA is mandatory for new or initial claims with approved sickness notifications, but not for those that need adjustment or are re-filed claims, which must be physically filed at the SSS branch.

The online submission of MBRA applies to new or initial claims and the following cases for adjustment:

• Member is qualified as Solo Parent;
• Correction of type of claim, such as from normal to caesarian delivery, or from miscarriage to ectopic pregnancy with operation;
• SSS computation is higher than employer’s computation;
• Additional posted contributions will increase the amount of maternity benefit;
• Correction of approved number of days from 60 (normal delivery) or 78 (caesarian section delivery) days to 105 days; and
• Allocated leave credits not used due to separation from employment of the child’s father or qualified alternate caregiver.

The filing of MBRA through SSS branches is still allowed until 31 August 2021. Mandatory online filing will be implemented on 01 September 2021. However, the employer must choose only one method as the simultaneous filing of MBRA through SSS branches and online is not allowed.

The SSS urges those who would transact in its branches and offices to follow the servicing guidelines such as the number coding system, appointment system, and dropbox system, if applicable; as well as to abide by the minimum public health protocols set by the government.

“As our partners in providing meaningful and timely social security benefits to employees, one of the legal obligations of employers under the Social Security Act of 2018 is to pay in advance the social security sickness and maternity benefits of qualified employees. Through these online facilities, they will also be assured that they will receive their corresponding reimbursements in a faster, safer, and more convenient way,” SSS President and CEO Aurora C. Ignacio said.

Under Section 14 and 14-A of Republic Act 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, employers are required to pay in advance the sickness benefit of qualified employees every regular payday or on the 15th and last day of each month; and maternity benefit of qualified employees, which must be paid in full within 30 days from the date of filing of the maternity leave application.

Failure or refusal to advance the said benefits will be subject to penalties provided under Section 28 (e) of RA 11199, consisting of a fine of not less than P5,000 nor more than P20,000, and/or imprisonment for not less than six years and one day nor more than 12 years, or both, at the discretion of the court.

The filing of a criminal action against erring employers may likewise include corresponding civil liabilities consisting of actual or compensatory damages, among others.

Step-by-step guides on how to use the online SBRA and MBRA can be followed through https://bit.ly/ERSBRA and https://bit.ly/SSSMBRA. For more information, visit the SSS’ accounts on Facebook and YouTube at “Philippine Social Security System,” Instagram at “mysssph,” Twitter at “PHLSSS,” or join its Viber Community at “MYSSSPH Updates.”