How to Claim OFW Benefits | Step-by-Step Guide

📝 Step-by-Step Guide on How to Claim OFW Benefits

1. SSS Flexi-Fund Program for OFWs

A voluntary savings program that earns tax-free interest higher than regular deposits.

📌 Eligibility

• Must be an active OFW

• Already an SSS member

📌 How to Enroll

1. Visit the nearest SSS branch (in the Philippines or abroad) or access My.SSS portal.

2. Fill out the SSS Flexi-Fund Enrollment Form.

3. Pay your initial contribution (minimum ₱200) through an accredited bank/remittance partner.

4. Keep the receipt for proof of enrollment.

📌 Benefits

• Competitive interest rates

• Flexible withdrawal (anytime you need funds)

• Retirement and emergency savings

---

2. PhilHealth Benefits for OFWs

Provides health insurance coverage for OFWs and their qualified dependents.

📌 How to Register

1. Go to the nearest PhilHealth Office or register online via PhilHealth Member Portal.

2. Fill out PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF).

3. Submit valid IDs and proof of overseas employment (e.g., contract or OEC).

4. Pay the annual premium through accredited banks or online channels.

📌 Coverage

• Inpatient care (hospitalization, surgeries)

• Outpatient benefits

• Reimbursement for overseas medical treatment

---

3. Pag-IBIG Fund MP2 Savings & Housing Loan

Pag-IBIG provides high-yield savings (MP2) and affordable housing loans for OFWs.

📌 MP2 Savings

• Minimum ₱500 per contribution

• Dividends higher than banks (around 6–7% annually)

• 5-year maturity, renewable

How to Apply for MP2:

1. Register at Pag-IBIG MP2 Online Enrollment.

2. Fill in required details and generate MP2 account number.

3. Deposit contributions via bank remittance or online transfer.

📌 Housing Loan

• Loan up to ₱6 million

• Interest as low as 5.75% per annum

• Up to 30 years to pay

How to Apply:

1. Submit Housing Loan Application Form at Pag-IBIG branch.

2. Provide required documents:

   • Valid IDs

   • Proof of income (employment contract, payslips, remittance slips)

   • Property-related documents

3. Wait for loan approval and proceed with property purchase or construction.

---

4. OWWA Programs for OFWs & Dependents

OWWA provides scholarships, reintegration loans, livelihood assistance, and legal aid.

📌 Key Programs

• EDSP (Education for Development Scholarship Program): ₱60,000/year for qualified dependents.

• SESP (Skills-for-Employment Scholarship Program): ₱14,500 for short courses.

• Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay Program: ₱20,000 livelihood starter kit for returning OFWs.

• OWWA Calamity Assistance: Cash aid for OFWs or families affected by disasters.

📌 How to Avail

1. Register or renew OWWA membership (₱25 USD valid for 2 years).

2. Visit the nearest OWWA Regional or Satellite Office.

3. Submit required documents:

   • OWWA Membership Certificate

   • Proof of relationship (for dependents)

   • Application forms specific to the program

4. Wait for processing and release of benefits.

---

5. Travel & Duty-Free Privileges

• Reduced Travel Tax:

  • OFW: Exempt

  • Spouse & unmarried children (below 21): ₱300–₱400 only

• Duty-Free Shopping:

  • Up to US$1,500 worth of goods within 15 days after arrival

How to Claim:

• Present valid passport & proof of overseas employment (OEC, contract, or OWWA ID) at the airport or Duty-Free store.

---

✅ Pro Tip: Always keep copies of your employment contract, OEC, and OWWA membership receipt—these are required in almost all benefit claims.

📊 Quick Comparison of OFW Benefits