In today’s world, where identity theft is commonplace, and anyone can pretend to be someone else, having a unique identifier is essential for conducting legal transactions. Therefore, having a legitimate identity is crucial for people to move through the legal system without hiccups.
A professional license, driver’s license, passport, etc. are only a few examples of acceptable forms of identification in the Philippines.
Government transactions often necessitate the use of multiple IDs issued by different government agencies, such as the Social Security System (SSS), the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHILHEALTH), and others.
If you’re a typical Filipino and have some skin in these programs, you’ll need to carry a few different cards. This may have been universally true in the past, and however, all of these can be combined into a single ID card that’s been given the catchy acronym UMID.
UMID lives up to its name as a multi-use card by covering not just SSS but also GSIS, PAG-IBIG, and PHILHEALTH. This means that the UMID card can be used in place of any previously-required cards for participation in any of these government initiatives.
The merits of a single-card system are apparent and cannot be overstated, especially in light of the drawbacks of a multi-card system. To put it mildly, it’s convenient in various situations.
The Social Security Administration (SSS) branch closest to you is the best place for private sector workers, sole proprietors, overseas Filipino workers, and SSS members to obtain a UMID card.
Applying for your card through the SSS or Social Security System is the best option because it serves as the backbone of the Unified Multi-purpose ID system. But before traveling to a particular branch of your choosing, confirm that you are or have the following requirements in your portfolio:
If you cannot complete the form online because you do not have access to a computer or the internet at home, you can pick up a paper copy at any SSS office.
SSS offers a fast and easy application process for obtaining a UMID card. Once your identification documents have been validated, the following steps will be to take your photo, signature, and fingerprints. There, you’ll fill out an application and be given a date by which you may expect your card to arrive in the mail.
Those GSIS members or pensioners with an eCard Plus must still obtain a UMID card, and a UMID card is required for all active members.
Worry not, though; GSIS maintains a network of convenient Enrollment Centers across the country to assist with any issue relating to a person’s UMID card.
A UMID card can be applied for in one of two ways:
New applicants for a GSIS UMID card can pick up an application here.
The initial stage in the application process is identification verification using the criteria and your previous records, like the technique followed by SSS. After this, you will have your photo taken, sign an agreement, and have your fingerprints scanned.
A UMID card will be given to you by an Agency Liaison Officer if you are a regular member and not a pensioner. Otherwise, it will be mailed to the pensioner’s residence. If you apply for a UMID card with SSS, you can expect to receive it within 30 days.
One thing to remember is that a UMID card may not be immediately usable after being received. However, it must be turned on before it can function.
If you receive a confirmation message that your UMID card has been activated, you know it is ready for use.
If yours weren’t activated in time, you could always contact a GSIS staff.
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