Retirement planning in the Philippines can be complex, especially for workers who have served in both the private and public sectors. Many Filipinos have contributed to both the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) over their careers.
The big question: Can you receive both pensions at the same time in 2025? The answer is yes—but only if you meet certain conditions. Understanding these rules is crucial to avoid losing benefits or facing delays in your retirement claims.
Quick Summary: SSS and GSIS Pensions Together in 2025
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
Pension Systems Involved |
SSS (Social Security System) & GSIS (Government Service Insurance System) |
Possible to Receive Both? |
Yes, but only under specific conditions |
Key Requirement |
Separate and complete service periods for each system |
Disqualification Reasons |
Refunded SSS contributions or overlapping service periods |
SSS Minimum Requirement |
120 months (10 years) of contributions |
GSIS Minimum Requirement |
15 years of government service |
Application Channels |
SSS: My.SSS portal or branch; GSIS: GSIS Touch app or branch |
Official Websites |
Overview of SSS and GSIS
What Is SSS?
- Social Security System (SSS) covers private sector employees, self-employed individuals, and voluntary members.
- Funded through monthly contributions based on salary brackets.
- Provides retirement, disability, sickness, and death benefits.
What Is GSIS?
- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is for government employees, including teachers, uniformed personnel, and other public workers.
- Funded by monthly contributions from the employee and the government.
- Offers retirement, separation, and life insurance benefits.
Both systems operate independently, with different eligibility requirements, benefit formulas, and claim processes.
Can You Receive Both SSS and GSIS Pensions?
Yes, but you must meet all of the following conditions:
- Separate Service Periods – Work in the private sector under SSS and in the public sector under GSIS at different times.
- Meet Minimum Contribution Requirements –
- SSS: At least 120 months of contributions.
- GSIS: At least 15 years of government service.
- No Refund of SSS Contributions – If you withdrew your SSS contributions upon joining GSIS, you are no longer eligible for the SSS pension.
The Government’s Conflict Rule
To ensure fairness and avoid double compensation for the same work period, the government enforces the Conflict Rule:
- No Overlapping Coverage – You cannot claim benefits for the same employment period under both systems.
- Refund Cancels Eligibility – Refunding SSS contributions forfeits your right to its pension.
- Separate and Complete Service Required – Both SSS and GSIS contributions must be fulfilled in full and in separate time periods.
Eligibility Scenarios
Employment Scenario |
Eligible for Both? |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
Worked in private sector, then government sector |
Yes |
Must meet contribution/service requirements for both systems |
Transferred to GSIS and refunded SSS contributions |
No |
SSS benefits forfeited |
Simultaneously contributed to both systems |
No |
Not permitted under Philippine law |
Pure government employee with no SSS contributions |
No |
Only GSIS pension applies |
Worked in both sectors with separate service periods |
Yes |
Contributions must not overlap |
How to Apply for Both Pensions
Applying for SSS Pension
- Confirm at least 120 months of contributions.
- Reach the retirement age:
- 60 years old (voluntary or separated employees).
- 65 years old (mandatory retirement).
- File your retirement claim:
- Online via My.SSS Portal.
- In Person at the nearest SSS branch.
Applying for GSIS Pension
- Confirm at least 15 years of government service.
- Reach 60 years of age (optional retirement possible under certain conditions).
- File your application:
- Online via the GSIS Touch App.
- In Person at a GSIS branch.
Tip: Apply separately to each agency and ensure your employment records are complete and accurate to prevent processing delays.
Tips to Avoid Disqualification
- Do Not Refund your SSS contributions when transferring to GSIS.
- Check Your Records Early to correct any discrepancies.
- Separate Employment Periods to comply with the conflict rule.
- Consult Both Agencies before filing to confirm eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I claim both pensions if I worked in private and public sectors at different times?
Ans. Yes, provided you meet the minimum service/contribution requirements for both and have no overlapping contributions.
Q2: What disqualifies me from claiming both pensions?
Ans. Refunding SSS contributions or having overlapping employment periods under both systems.
Q3: Can I re-qualify for SSS if I refunded my contributions?
Ans. No. Once refunded, SSS pension eligibility is permanently forfeited.
Q4: Is simultaneous contribution to both systems allowed?
Ans. No. Philippine law prohibits dual contributions for the same employment period.
Q5: Do I need to apply for both pensions separately?
Ans. Yes. SSS and GSIS are independent systems, and each requires its own application process.
Conclusion
Claiming both SSS and GSIS pensions in 2025 is possible for Filipinos who have served in both private and public sectors—but only if they have distinct, non-overlapping service periods and meet each system’s requirements.
Careful planning, accurate contribution tracking, and avoiding the refund of SSS contributions are essential to securing both benefits.
For official guidelines and application portals, visit:
- SSS Official Website
- GSIS Official Website
For More Information Click HERE