Financially speaking, government aid to older citizens is presented in several social pensions in the Philippines. Among the prominent ones include the ₱2,200 social pension given by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the ₱1,000 monthly pension from the Social Security System or SSS. No such senior can seem to really make sense out of these: Is it possible to get the rest of the ₱2,200 and ₱1,000 pensions in the same month?
The ₱2,200 DSWD Social Pension Explained
The ₱2,200 pension is welfare that the government offers to indigent senior citizens who are 60 years and older with no regular source of income, no pensions from other government or private institutions, and are without permanent family support. From being a mere ₱500 payment, this sum was raised to be more in tune with the rising cost of living. They are paid quarterly or at the best times during the disbursement process by the DSWD.
SSS ₱1,000 Pension Benefits Understood
An additional ₱1,000 from the SSS for pensions does not comprise an independent benefit but rather acts as an increment to the actual monthly pension of retirees who meet the qualifications. Such additional sum has been implemented effective 2017 as part of the enhancement of every single social benefit of pensioners under the SSS scheme. For members of the SSS pension, at least 120 monthly contributions must be accumulated prior to retirement.
Can You Receive Them Both in the Same Month?
No, the DSWD -₱2,200 social pension and the SSS ₱1,000 pension cannot be given at the same time to a senior citizen. It is given solely to indigent seniors without any pension from other agencies like SSS or GSIS. If a senior citizen is already receiving the SSS pension, he or she loses eligibility for the DSWD social pension.
Final Thoughts
Both schemes seek to assist the needy elder constituency; however, they cater to distinct sectors differing by income and support available. Senior citizens and their families should be aware of the qualifications for these programs to resolve any misunderstandings and be assured that the correct assistance is being availed.