Optional Retirement allows qualified SSS members to claim benefits as early as age 60, provided they have stopped working. Members must have at least 120 contributions to receive a monthly pension; otherwise, they will receive a lump sum. Optional retirees receive a lower overall pension value compared with those who retire at 65 because they have fewer working years and fewer posted contributions. Despite this, optional retirement helps members who face mandatory company retirement, job loss, or health difficulties.
Hospital delivery in the Philippines can easily cost ₱60,000 - ₱200,000 depending on the hospital and type of delivery.
Many parents use a credit card to manage these expenses while waiting for their SSS maternity benefits.
