I started paying my SSS premiums when I was still young and an employee. While working in one beauty parlor I became SSS member and paid my SSS premiums accordingly. However, in three other business establishments I worked with, they didn’t pay my SSS contributions. When I stopped working I also stopped paying my SSS premiums.
When I turned 60 I decided to continue paying my SSS premiums on voluntary basis. However due to financial difficulty there were times I failed to pay my monthly premiums.
Lately, I continued paying until I was able to pay premiums for 48 months which is up to 2013. The SSS advised me to stop paying my SSS premiums and continue in 2014 for the remaining six years. The SSS said I can pay the whole amount of my SSS premiums for six years but still wait for six years to receive my pension. I am now 69 so I will be SSS pensioner at the age of 75 or 76.
In behalf of other senior citizens similarly situated, I am suggesting that SSS should devise a plan for us. I suggest they allow senior citizens pay in lump sums their remaining unpaid SSS premiums. In my case I spent many years of employment in business establishments not paying SSS premiums. — LEONILA T. CANTA, Bacoor, Cavite