If you are a member of the Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines, the year 2025 brings a major change for you. Amid economic instability, inflation, and rapid changes in the labor market, the SSS has made improvements to its plans that will not only secure your retirement but also help you cope with today’s challenges. Some of the announcements from the SSS this time around include new grants, increased pension amounts, expanded coverage, and a voluntary pension savings program.
Whether you are a full-time employee, a self-employed professional, or already retired—these changes are all geared towards making your financial future more stable. It’s time to understand these changes, log in to your My.SSS account, and take steps to make the most of them.
Pension Increase: Additional Benefits of ₱1,976 per Month
The biggest gift the SSS has given at the start of 2025 is to retired members who rely on pensions every month. Starting May 2025, eligible pensioners will receive an additional ₱1,976 per month. This increase is a direct response to long-standing demands in light of rising inflation and cost of living.
Who will benefit?
- Members who are receiving a monthly pension (not a lump sum)
- Who have completed at least 120 monthly contributions before retirement
- Who are classified as active pensioners as of May 1, 2025?
No additional documentation or application will be required. Those who are eligible will have this amount automatically added to their monthly payment. In addition, those receiving disability and survivor pensions will also be able to benefit from this increase.
MySSS Pension Booster: Your Pension Power Pack
SSS has launched a revolutionary scheme called MySSS Pension Booster in 2025, which is a voluntary pension savings plan. It is ideal for those who want to make their retirement even more secure, especially members of the middle-income group.
What makes it special?
- Tax-free interest of up to 7.2% per annum
- Government-backed, safe and risk-free
- Open to employees, self-employed people, OFWs and volunteers
- Fully digital—no need to visit an SSS branch
How to get started:
- Minimum contribution: only ₱500 per transaction
- No maximum contribution limit
- Money grows gradually through compound interest.
- Withdrawal only in situations like retirement or medical emergency
This plan actually works like a “personal pension top-up”—where ”you can invest as much as you want and get assured returns.
Loan interest rate cut: Easier loans, less burden
The SSS has announced a reduction in interest rates on salary and calamity relief loans. While earlier this interest rate was 10% per annum, now it is being reduced. Although the new rate will be fixed by mid-2025, it is still clear that this will ease your debt burden.
Its benefits:
- Chances of getting a higher loan amount
- Low EMI, which gives relief in the monthly budget
- Facility to repay the loan quickly
- Easy and digital application process—apply directly from the My.SSS portal.
This move will prove to be especially helpful for those who want immediate help in case of financial crisis or emergency.
A new way opens for self-employed and gig workers.
SSS has now opened its doors to professionals and informal sector workers who were earlier considered outside the services of SSS. Now online freelancers, content creators, online sellers, delivery riders, market vendors, and small shopkeepers (sari-sari store owners) can also become members of SSS.
SSS, in collaboration with the local government and the PRC (Professional Regulation Commission), is conducting registration drives to ensure that all categories of people can benefit from it.
How to Register?
- Online through the My.SSS portal
- Or at the nearest LGU mobile registration events
With this coverage expansion, social security will now reach previously overlooked categories.
Digital Services Expansion: Everything Now on Your Mobile
In 2025, SSS has taken its digital services to new heights. Every member now has access to online services that are easy, fast, and transparent. This is a boon especially for OFWs and those living in rural areas.
New features include:
- Mobile-friendly My.SSS portal
- Upgraded SSS mobile app
- Real-time contribution and loan updates
- Online booking for branch appointments and webinars
TIP: Make sure your My.SSS account has updated contact details so you can receive all alerts and updates on time.
How to enroll in MySSS Pension Booster
You can make your retirement even more secure by joining this scheme. The process is very simple:
Enrollment Steps:
- Log in to your My.SSS account.
- Go to the “Services” tab and select “Enroll in MySSS Pension Booster.”
- Read and accept the terms and conditions.
- Set your first contribution amount (minimum ₱500).
- Pay via GCash, PayMaya, bank or SSS partner outlets.
Note: Deposited funds can only be withdrawn upon retirement or in exceptional health emergencies.
Who will benefit the most from these schemes?
Retired and senior pensioners:
- The monthly increase of ₱1,976 will directly benefit your fixed income, making it easier to pay for medicines, food and daily expenses.
Self-employed professionals:
- Now you too can get benefits such as retirement, maternity and loans. Simply register as a volunteer member.
Filipinos Working Abroad (OFWs):
- You can participate in MySSS Booster and monitor your contributions through mobile banking and SSS’s online platform.
Employers:
- Recommend MySSS Pension Booster to your employees and ensure their payroll deductions are in line with the updated SSS contribution standards.
Conclusion: These 2025 changes are not just an update; they are a new beginning.
These announcements by SSS in 2025 are not just policy updates, but they embody the vision that seeks to give every Filipino an empowered, secure, and dignified retirement.
Enhanced pensions, tax-free savings options, easy loan processes, and digital accessibility—these all make SSS more inclusive and modern. Whether you are retired or still working, now is the time to visit your My.SSS account, take advantage of these opportunities, and give your future a new direction.
FAQs
Q. What is the new SSS pension increase for 2025?
A. Starting May 2025, eligible retirees will receive an additional ₱1,976 per month.
Q. What is the MySSS Pension Booster?
A. It’s a voluntary savings program offering up to 7.2% annual tax-free interest for retirement.
Q. Who can join the MySSS Pension Booster?
A. Employed, self-employed, OFWs, and voluntary members can all enroll in the program.
Q. Is loan interest also affected in 2025?
A. Yes, the interest rate on salary and calamity loans will be reduced from the previous 10%.
Q. Can freelancers and gig workers now register for SSS?
A. Yes, freelancers, online sellers, and informal workers are now eligible for SSS membership.