‘Kasambahay’ coverage already a must—SSS

This is in reply to Blanche David-Gallardo’s letter titled “Harassed by profitable SSS,” which was published in the Nov. 2 issue of the Inquirer. In her letter, she sought assistance regarding the unpaid Social Security System (SSS) contributions in favor of her former “female driver/kasambahay.”

The SSS coverage of a househelper earning at least P1,000 a month became compulsory in 1993 under Republic Act No. 7655 (“An Act Increasing the Minimum Wage of Househelpers, Amending for the Purpose Article 143 of Presidential Decree No. 442, as Amended”). That same year, the SSS issued Circular No. 21-V, laying down the implementing guidelines on the social security coverage of househelpers. Four years later, the provision on the mandatory SSS coverage of househelpers was reiterated in RA 8282 (the Social Security Act of 1997).

While Gallardo’s employment of her househelper precedes the effectivity of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Kasambahay Law (RA 10361) on June 4, 2013, this does not diminish the validity of the collection case already being pursued by the SSS on Gallardo’s unremitted employer

premiums.

If Gallardo is unable to pay such liability in full, she may apply for our Installment Payment Scheme for Employers by writing a letter addressed to the head of the SSS branch that issued her the demand letters. This is an option offered under SSS Circular No. 2011-002

dated Feb. 16, 2011, to “any employer, including household employer, who is delinquent or has not remitted all contributions and salary/calamity loan amortizations for at least six months, including penalties, due and payable to the SSS.” Employers with a total delinquency amount of P2 million and below can settle their unpaid SSS obligations for up to 24 monthly installments.

—MARISSU G. BUGANTE,

vice president,

Public Affairs and Special Events Division,

Social Security System