SSS Maternity Benefit

This is definitely one of the things new mother should know: that they are entitled to a Maternity Benefit as an existing member of Social Security System (SSS), a government agency that has social insurance programs, providing retirement and health benefits to all enrolled employees in the country. 

As we all know it, every payday, a percentage of our salary goes to SSS (if you are an employed individual). At times, we wonder and ask ourselves what good could possibly come from such deduction in our monthly earnings? Will it do us good, eventually? 

Well moms, the answer is yes! And here's one cogent proof!

According to SSS, Maternity Benefit is a daily cash allowance granted to a female member who was unable to work due to childbirth or miscarriage. In my case, I stopped working during my first-trimester of pregnancy because I opted to concentrate on my gestation and rather avoid stress caused by my work. Though I was a separated member (unemployed), I was still eligible to receive a Maternity Benefit. How? Why?

Visit SSS Index-1 on Maternity to know more. There, your concerns about Maternity Benefit will be addressed as it enumerates the qualifications for entitlement to such benefit, explains how much you're gonna get, and shows how it is computed. 

Just take note moms that you MUST go to SSS office near you to apply for this benefit. You need to fill-up and pass the Maternity Notification Form or MAT-1 Form prior to giving birth! When you're about to submit this accomplished form, don't forget to bring an I.D. and a proof that you're really pregnant, say a recent ultrasound scan. Also, be ready with your SSS number!

They will process your application and check whether you may be granted with such benefit considering all the requirements. This process is quite fast and no hassle, so don't worry moms. After the officer accepted your form, that's about it. You will just have to return AFTER you give birth!

This time, what you must do is fill-up the Maternity Reimbursement Form or MAT-2 Form, and submit the requirements enumerated in the SSS Index-2 on Maternity.

After about a month and a half, you will get your benefit! :) 

I just got mine this morning! :) I waited for it about a month and a half (I submitted my MAT-2 December 13 of last year, and was informed that my benefit was approved just last January 30). 

Here's a snapshot of my MB :)

Though the total amount of my maternity benefit doesn't equate to the actual price my husband and I paid for my delivery, we're still grateful for this! After all, ang pera ay pera. And it's definitely a necessity these days! ;)

Here's my Maternity Benefit Check and Voucher :)

I am also thankful that my soon-to-be kumare Donna I. Pahignalo told me about this benefit. For like most moms, I wasn't aware that such benefit exists! 

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