If you’ve recently left your job, started freelancing, or begun running your own business, it’s easy to forget about your SSS (Social Security System) contributions. But this small monthly commitment plays a big role in your financial future, especially when life throws the unexpected your way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to shift from an employed SSS member to a voluntary one, all done online. We’ll explain why this decision matters, especially if you’re working on your own terms.
Why Keep Paying SSS After You Leave Employment?
Many think SSS is only useful near retirement. But that’s a common misconception. Missing out on contributions can delay or even disqualify you from receiving benefits when you need them most.
Here’s why staying active as a voluntary member matters:
- You remain eligible for key benefits like retirement, disability, sickness, maternity, and even funeral assistance.
- You build your contribution record, which is required for loan applications and benefit claims.
What Is a Voluntary Member?
A voluntary member is someone who was previously covered by SSS, usually as an employee but is no longer formally employed and chooses to continue contributions on their own.
This includes:
- Freelancers and self-employed professionals
- Business owners and sole proprietors
- Unemployed individuals between jobs
- OFWs (although they fall under a specific category)
Please take note that you can’t start with SSS as a voluntary member. You need at least one valid contribution under another membership type (e.g., employed or self-employed) before making the switch to voluntary.
Who Should Consider Voluntary Membership?
You’re eligible to switch if:
- You’ve left your job and aren’t covered by another SSS category
- You’re now self-employed, freelancing, or temporarily unemployed
- You want to keep your contributions active and benefits intact
How to Switch from Employed to Voluntary (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Register or Log In to My.SSS
Go to www.sss.gov.ph and access the My.SSS portal. If you don’t have an account yet, sign up using your SSS number and email address. This account lets you manage your contributions, benefits, and loan applications.
Step 2: Generate Your Payment Reference Number (PRN)
Once logged in:
- Go to the “Generate PRN” option under the Contributions section
- Choose “Voluntary” as your membership type
And that’s it! There’s no need to submit forms or go to a branch. This step automatically updates your member status.
Step 3: Choose Your Monthly Salary Credit (MSC)
Your MSC determines how much you’ll pay and how much you can claim later and if you’re below 55, you can adjust your MSC anytime. But if you’re 55 or older, increases are limited to once a year and by one bracket only.
Check the SSS contribution table here to see your MSC.
If you’re thinking of paying the lowest amount for a start, then the lowest SSS contribution you can choose when creating PRN is Php750.
In 2025, the contribution rate is 14% of your MSC. So for example: If your MSC is ₱8,000, you’ll pay ₱1,120 monthly. As a voluntary member, you shoulder both employer and employee shares.
Step 4: Pay Using Your PRN
After creating your PRN you can pay through:
- The SSS Mobile App
- Online banking (BPI, UnionBank, Landbank)
- E-wallets (GCash, Maya)
- Bayad Center, 7-Eleven, and other partner outlets
- SSS tellering branches
Always use your PRN when paying to ensure your contribution is credited correctly. You can also read our guide on how to pay your SSS contribution through GCash and BPI.
Contribution Deadlines in 2025
For the payments, you must pay by the last day of the month following the applicable month.
For example:
- January contributions → Pay by February 28
- March contributions → Pay by April 30
Missed payments can’t be paid retroactively. Once a deadline passes, it’s gone
What Happens If You Stop Contributing to SSS?
Stopping your SSS contributions may seem harmless in the short term, but it can significantly affect your long-term financial security. So it’s important for you to check how much you have paid so far and what you want from your SSS contribution.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
If You Have Paid at Least 120 Monthly Contributions
If you have already completed the minimum requirement of 120 monthly contributions, you are eligible for a monthly retirement pension upon reaching the qualifying age which is 60 years old if you are no longer working, or 65 years old regardless of your employment status. This pension provides financial support for life, making it a crucial part of your retirement planning.
If You Have Paid Less Than 120 Monthly Contributions
If you stop contributing before reaching the 120-month mark, you will not qualify for the monthly pension. Instead, when you reach the retirement age, SSS will provide you with a lump-sum benefit. This lump sum includes the total amount of contributions you and your employer (if applicable) have paid, along with any applicable interest.
Conclusion
Working independently brings freedom but also more responsibility. Your SSS membership is a cornerstone of financial protection, not just a bureaucratic step.
By keeping up with your contributions, you’re investing in security for yourself and your family. Whether you’re freelancing for now or long term, don’t let this fall off your radar.
Small, consistent steps today create big safety nets for tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return to employed status later?
Yes. Your new employer will update your SSS records and resume your contributions.
Do I need to file any forms to switch?
No forms are needed. Generating a PRN and paying under “voluntary” automatically updates your status.
How much is the SSS pension for a voluntary member?
The SSS pension for a voluntary member depends on their contributions.
How to reactivate SSS membership?
You can reactivate your SSS membership by paying as a voluntary member. Simply log in to your My.SSS account or use the SSS Mobile App, generate a Payment Reference Number (PRN), select “Voluntary Member” as your membership type, and pay your contribution using the PRN. This will automatically update and reactivate your SSS membership.