Most working people see the words "Social Security" on their payslip every month, but never use any benefits other than going to the hospital under their entitlements. Yet this system covers much more than that, and many benefits have filing deadlines, which once missed, are gone for good.
How many types of insured persons are there?
- Section 33 Employees in establishments; employer and employee contribute jointly. This group receives the broadest coverage.
- Section 39 Those who were previously Section 33 and left their job, but apply to continue paying contributions by themselves within the specified period.
- Section 40 Self-employed persons. Coverage varies according to the option they apply for.
A common misunderstanding is thinking that once you leave your job, your rights disappear immediately. In fact, you still have continued coverage for a period after your employment status ends, and you can still apply for Section 39 continuation if you file in time.
Rights That Exist but People Don't Use
In case of unemployment: both in the case of dismissal and in the case of resignation or contract termination, the rates and durations differ. You must register as unemployed with the employment office within the deadline and report as scheduled. This is the point where people lose their rights the most.
In case of childbirth: both maternity expenses and the allowance for time off work, which is separate from the wages the employer must pay during maternity leave.
Child allowance: paid monthly per child according to the age conditions and number of children specified. Many families never apply for it for many years.
In case of disability and death: including funeral expenses and allowances to entitled persons.
Old age: both lump-sum and pension, depending on the period of contributions. This is a right for which you should check your own accumulated balance periodically, rather than wait until reaching the age and then look.
Excess paid contributions: in the case of working at multiple places simultaneously, a refund can be claimed according to the criteria.
Employer-side duties: penalties for missing them
- Register as an employer and register employees within the prescribed period from the date of hiring.
- Notify changes — both newly hired employees and departing employees — within the prescribed period. Failing to notify a departure causes the contribution balance to keep running and turn into a debt that must be settled retroactively.
- Withhold and remit contributions within the prescribed period of the following month. Deducting from wages but failing to remit is an offense carrying penalties, plus surcharges.
- Keep documents available for inspection, because a retroactive audit relies primarily on documents, not explanations.
The most common mistake found in small businesses is failing to register daily-wage or temporary employees, on the understanding that they do not fall within the scope — which is usually not true, and when an inspection takes place, the entire amount must be paid retroactively in one lump sum.
Deadlines to Remember
Many benefits have a deadline for filing benefit claims counted from the date the right arises, and in the case of unemployment there is also a separate registration deadline. These rates, ceilings, and deadlines are updated periodically. You should always check the current figures and deadlines with the Social Security Office before filing.
If Your Application Is Rejected
A denial of benefit payment is not the final answer. There is an appeal procedure before the Appeal Committee within the prescribed time limit, and if that is still unsuccessful, there is also the option to bring the case to the Labor Court. What matters is keeping the rejection letter and checking the date on the document, because the appeal deadline runs from that date.
See more
- Guide to Your First Labour Court Appearance
- Terminated from Your Job? What You Need to Know
- Unpaid Wages and Overtime
📌 See more: Labour Cases
If your rights have been denied, or you are an employer facing retroactive contribution claims, consult a lawyer for free. Call 092-254-2045
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice for any specific case. Rates and deadlines may be updated. Please check with the Social Security Office.