Aside from the Philippine passport, the Unified Multi-Purpose ID can be used as a valid identification card for different transactions, both public and private. It is issued by the government through SSS branches.
Planning to get your UMID? Read on to know about the requirements, fees and the steps to apply.
What is a UMID?
The Unified Multi-Purpose ID or UMID is a powerful ID made from the collaboration of four government agencies: Social Security System (SSS), Government Services Insurance System (GSIS), Pag-IBIG Fund, and PhilHealth.
This identification card is accepted as a valid ID for all other transactions.
Benefits of a UMID
Having a UMID gives you convenience as SSS loans and benefits can now be withdrawn using this card. In addition, the UMID also makes it easier to reimburse benefits such as disability, retirement, sickness and maternity claims. Members can also claim their salary and calamity loans using this card at an ATM machine.
Eligibility
To qualify for a unified multi-purpose identification card, you need to be a member of the GSIS or PhilHealth. A minimum of 1-month contribution is needed to apply. These are applicable for first-time applicants.
How to Apply
The steps to apply for this government ID is easy. Follow these steps to get started.
- Prepare all the requirements
Applicants need to present a valid ID to get their UMID card. You must have at least one of the following: passport, driver’s license, Seaman’s Book, Postal ID, TIN Card, NBI Clearance, Police Clearance, Pag-IBI Member’s Data Form, OWWA Card, Voter’s ID and Birth Certificate.
It would be better to have at least three of these documents to make sure you can get the UMID.
- Visit the nearest SSS Branch with UMID enrollment facility
Once you have the documents needed for the UMID, you can now go straight to the nearest SSS office in your area. Make sure you check if this office has a UMID enrollment facility.
In metro manila, there are more than 38 SSS branches with a UMID enrollment facility. If you are located in the province, there are also a number of SSS offices that cater to UMID card needs. Check the SSS website for the complete list of the branches.
- Fill out UMID Card Application Form
Once you are at the SSS branch, ask for a UMID card application form and fill out the required fields indicating your full name, birth date, address, contact details, and SSS number. Note that this form can also be downloaded from the SSS website.
Make sure you double-check all the information for errors. Put a No Answer or N/A if the required data is not applicable.
- Proceed to biometrics and ID booth
After the SSS personnel has checked all your supporting documents, you will be asked to proceed to the biometrics and ID booth for your photo and fingerprints. You will also need to affix your electronic signature in this same booth.
- Wait for the delivery
The verification, printing, and delivery take maximum of two weeks for NCR residents and four weeks for the individuals with a registered address outside Metro Manila.
Fees
Getting a UMID card is absolutely free of charge. However, if you lose it and need a replacement, you will have to pay Php 200.
Contact
If you have urgent concerns and follow-ups, you may reach the SSS hotline at 920 6446 to 55. You may also email the Department of the Philippine Social Security System at idcpd@sss.gov.ph.
The SSS main office is located at SSS Building, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines.
Conclusion
The UMID card is a powerful identification card that can be used for transactions in the Philippines and also to withdraw funds from the SSS. It is a government-issued card that is 100% free for members of the GSIS and Social Security Systems.