In the Philippines, funeral assistance can provide much-needed financial relief for families coping with the loss of a loved one.
As of 2025, the government continues to support grieving families through Social Security funeral benefits, offering ₱20,000 to ₱60,000 depending on eligibility and contributions.
This guide explains who qualifies, how to claim, documents required, and key deadlines to ensure you get the support you deserve.
What Is the Funeral Benefit Scheme in the Philippines?
The Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) both offer funeral benefits to help cover burial and funeral expenses.
This is a lump-sum financial aid ranging from ₱20,000 to ₱60,000, granted to the family or legal beneficiaries of a deceased member.
As of the latest update in 2025, the SSS Funeral Benefit pays up to ₱40,000, while GSIS can provide as much as ₱60,000, depending on the member’s length of service, salary bracket, and number of contributions.
Who Is Eligible for the ₱20,000–₱60,000 Funeral Benefit?
Eligibility criteria differ slightly between SSS and GSIS, but the general requirements are:
SSS Funeral Benefit Eligibility
- The deceased was a registered SSS member, with at least 36 monthly contributions.
- The person claiming the benefit is the beneficiary or person who paid for the funeral.
- The claimant must submit valid proof of relationship or funeral expense receipts.
GSIS Funeral Benefit Eligibility
- The deceased was a GSIS member, retiree, or pensioner.
- GSIS coverage should still be active or in a pension-paying status at the time of death.
- The claimant must be the legitimate spouse, child, or the person who shouldered the funeral expenses.
Required Documents to Claim the Funeral Benefit
Here are the standard documents you must prepare to claim funeral benefits from either system:
| Document | SSS | GSIS |
|---|---|---|
| Duly accomplished application form | Yes | Yes |
| Certified true copy of death cert. | Yes | Yes |
| Funeral contract or official receipt | Yes | Yes |
| Valid ID of claimant | Yes | Yes |
| Proof of SSS or GSIS membership | Yes | Yes |
| Marriage certificate or birth cert. (if applicable) | Yes | Yes |
Benefit Amount: How Much Can You Receive?
The benefit amount varies based on several factors, such as monthly contributions, status at the time of death, and the agency managing the claim.
| Agency | Minimum Amount | Maximum Amount | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSS | ₱20,000 | ₱40,000 | Member’s total contributions |
| GSIS | ₱30,000 | ₱60,000 | Length of service and salary grade |
Step-by-Step Process to Claim the Funeral Benefit
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Make sure to collect all the required IDs, death certificates, and receipts before applying.
Step 2: Download and Fill Out the Application Form
You can get the Funeral Claim Form from the nearest SSS or GSIS branch or download it online from their official websites.
- SSS: www.sss.gov.ph
- GSIS: www.gsis.gov.ph
Step 3: Submit the Application
Visit the branch personally or authorize someone with a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA) to submit the claim on your behalf.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing time usually takes 10 to 30 working days, depending on the completeness of documents and verification procedures.
Important Dates and Deadlines (2025)
| Deadline Type | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Claim Filing | Within 4 years from the date of death |
| Processing Duration | 10–30 working days after document submission |
| Application Availability | Open year-round via online or in-branch filing |
Recent 2025 Updates to Funeral Benefits
- GSIS revised its benefit calculation to better reflect inflation and wage adjustments.
- SSS has streamlined online submissions through its My.SSS Portal, allowing faster processing.
- New data verification protocols have improved fraud prevention and reduced errors in disbursing claims.
The ₱20,000–₱60,000 funeral benefit scheme in the Philippines offers essential financial support during difficult times.
Whether through SSS or GSIS, the process has been simplified for 2025, making it easier to claim what you are rightfully entitled to.
If you have recently lost a loved one, act promptly, gather your documents, and file your claim to receive assistance without unnecessary delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply online for the funeral benefit in 2025?
Yes. Both SSS and GSIS allow online applications. SSS members can use the My.SSS portal, while GSIS members can visit eGSISMO to initiate the process.
2. What happens if multiple people claim the funeral benefit?
The benefit is awarded to the individual who paid for the funeral expenses, provided they can present official receipts and supporting documents.
3. Is the funeral benefit taxable?
No, the funeral benefit provided by SSS and GSIS is non-taxable, as it is a form of social welfare assistance and not considered income.