SSS, DICT Join Forces to Extend Government Benefits to Virtual Assistants, Freelancers
The Social Security System (SSS) has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to expand social security coverage for virtual assistants and freelancers in the Philippines, giving them access to government benefits and financial protection.
According to the SSS, around 1.5 million Filipinos work as virtual assistants and freelancers. However, many of them lack the employment benefits and formal work records commonly enjoyed by regular employees. A study by virtual assistant outsourcing company Remotify found that seven out of 10 Filipino remote workers receive no benefits beyond their salaries. More than half also reported having unstable income, while 45 percent said they do not file taxes, partly because of their irregular earnings.
The study also found that nearly 40 percent of remote workers have difficulty proving their income when applying for credit cards, housing loans, and government assistance. Despite these challenges, many want to maintain the flexibility of remote work while gaining the security of formal employment. Around 77 percent said they want an official employment record, while 78 percent expressed willingness to work through an Employer of Record arrangement.
Under the SSS and DICT partnership, virtual assistants and freelancers will be encouraged to register as self-employed SSS members. This will allow them to qualify for various benefits, including sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, funeral, and death benefits.
The monthly SSS contribution rate is 15 percent, with contributions based on a monthly salary credit ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱35,000. Monthly payments start at ₱760 and can reach ₱5,280, depending on the member’s declared income and applicable contributions.
These payments also include coverage under the Employees’ Compensation Program, which provides assistance for work-related illnesses, disabilities, and deaths. Higher-income members may also contribute to the Mandatory Provident Fund, which serves as additional retirement savings.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Alfonso Limlingan said the partnership aims to ensure that freelancers and virtual assistants receive the same social security protection and benefits available to other Filipino workers.
