SSS announces facial authentication for annual pensioner checks

Good news for our retirees: you can now skip the trip to the SSS branch!

In a press release, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro said that annual pensioner check-ins no longer require a physical visit to a Social Security System branch. Pensioners can now complete their requirements remotely using facial authentication on their own devices

explained that the system utilizes biometric liveness checks to verify identities securely. He noted that the transition makes the process "easier, faster, and more secure," ensuring that pension payments remain "uninterrupted."

The feature is available to pensioners registered in the National ID System, including retirement pensioners aged 80 and above and residing in the Philippines, retirement pensioners living abroad, and survivorship (death) pensioners.

To access it, one should visit the SSS homepage at www.sss.gov.ph.

Then, they can click the dedicated ACOP icon, which seamlessly guides them through the facial scan and biometric verification process using any camera-enabled device, such as a smartphone, laptop, or web camera, through the Philippine Statistics Authority’s National ID eVerify system.

Pensioners, including survivorship pensioners, must then input their own SS number and date of birth.

De Claro said it only takes "less than a minute" and will immediately update the SSS records while confirming the live person's presence.

Those who do not have compatible devices may seek assistance at SSS branches through E-Centers. SSS also said that in-person visits or scheduled video appointments can still be done.

De Claro said that this makes it more convenient for pensioners as it reduces travel burdens amid rising living costs.

“No travel. No hassle. Just quick, secure verification from home,” de Claro said.

Last February, SSS announced a 10% increase in retirement and disability pensions, as well as a 5% increase for death and survivor pensioners, by September 2026. They added that there will also be no contribution increase.