Experiencing the loss of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time. Amidst the grief, the financial implications of funeral arrangements can add further stress. Thankfully, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) extends a helping hand during such difficult periods through their funeral benefit.
Also read: How to File SSS Funeral Benefit Claim Application Online
This benefit provides financial support to those who shoulder the funeral costs. Eligibility extends to the deceased member’s lawful spouse, any legitimate child who incurred the funeral expenses, or any person who can substantiate their payment of these costs. It’s important to understand the priority order for the disbursement of this benefit. GSIS stands as a pillar of support in these trying times, providing financial relief through this thoughtful provision.
What are the Benefits of GSIS Funeral Benefit?
The GSIS Funeral Benefit provides several advantages to the beneficiaries of a deceased GSIS member, pensioner, or retiree.
- Financial Assistance: GSIS provides a Php30,000 funeral benefit to help defray the expenses associated with the burial and funeral of the deceased. This aids the family in managing the financial burden during an already difficult time.
- Immediate Support: The funeral benefit is granted by GSIS to extend immediate financial assistance to the family of the deceased. This means that the family can receive help promptly when they need it most.
- Ease of Application: The application process for the GSIS Funeral Benefit is relatively straightforward, with clear guidelines available on their website. This simplifies the process during a time when the beneficiaries may be overwhelmed.
- Inclusive Eligibility: The benefit is not only available to the immediate family members but also to any person who can prove they shouldered the funeral expenses. This includes a legitimate spouse, a legitimate child, or any other individual who has proof of having covered the funeral costs.
- Additional Survivorship Benefits: In addition to the funeral benefit, the GSIS also provides survivorship benefits to the legal heirs of the deceased. These include a basic survivorship pension and dependent’s pension, offering further financial support to the family.
Eligibility
The GSIS Funeral Benefit is designed to provide financial assistance upon the death of a member or pensioner.
a. Active Member
- The benefit is payable upon the death of a member who is currently in active service.
b. Separated Member with Eligibility for Future Benefits
- If a member has been separated from the service but has accumulated more than 15 years of creditable service and is entitled to future separation or retirement benefits, the funeral benefit will be provided upon their death.
c. Old Age or Disability Pensioners
- The funeral benefit is also granted upon the death of a pensioner receiving old age or disability pension.
d. Retirees under RA 1616
- Those who retired at least 60 years of age with at least 20 years of service under Republic Act No. 1616 on or after June 24, 1997, are also eligible for the funeral benefit.
e. Members with 20 Years of Service under RA 1616 before June 24, 1997
- Members who retired under RA 1616 prior to June 24, 1997, with at least twenty years of service, regardless of age, are also entitled to the funeral benefit.
It’s crucial that members and their families are aware of these conditions to understand when they can avail of the funeral benefit.
How Much is the Funeral Benefit?
The GSIS Funeral Benefit is designed to provide financial aid to the families of deceased members or pensioners.
The amount provided varies based on certain conditions:
- General Members or Pensioners: The funeral benefit for most members or pensioners is determined by the prevailing amount approved by the GSIS Board of Trustees at the time of death. Currently, this amount is fixed at Php 30,000.
- Uniformed Members of PNP, BJMP, and BFP: For uniformed members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the funeral benefit is set at a fixed amount of Php 10,000.
These amounts are intended to help cover the costs associated with funeral arrangements, providing some financial relief during a challenging time.
Also read: Get Your GSIS Pension Loan Now: Quick and Easy Steps to Apply!
Requirements for GSIS Funeral Benefit Application
If you are applying for the GSIS Funeral Benefit, there are specific requirements that need to be met. These vary depending on whether you are the spouse of the deceased member or not.
A. If the Claimant is the Spouse of the Deceased Member:
- Complete the Application Form for Funeral Benefit.
- Provide the death certificate of the deceased member, issued by the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) or the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
- Submit the marriage contract between you and the deceased member, issued by the LCR or PSA.
- If you are not a GSIS member, provide your birth certificate issued by the PSA or LCR, or two valid government-issued IDs with your date of birth and signature.
- If the deceased member was an Indigenous Person (IP) or Muslim and you are not the only wife, submit a sworn statement acknowledging the rights of the other spouses to the Funeral Benefit (reference: PPG No. 329-18).
B. If the Claimant is Not the Spouse of the Deceased Member:
- Complete the Application Form for Funeral Benefit.
- Provide the death certificate of the deceased member, issued by the LCR or PSA.
- If you are not a GSIS member, provide your birth certificate issued by the LCR or PSA, or two valid government-issued IDs with your date of birth and signature.
- If the deceased member was married, submit the death certificate of their legal spouse, issued by the LCR or PSA.
- If the legal spouse is alive, provide a notarized waiver in your favor, along with two valid IDs of the legal spouse with a signature.
- If the legal spouse cannot be located, submit an affidavit stating that despite making serious efforts, the legal spouse could not be located to sign a notarized waiver in your favor. This must be attested by two impartial individuals and accompanied by their two valid government-issued IDs (reference: PPG No. 329-18).
- Provide the official receipt of funeral expenses issued in your name.
Application For Funeral Benefit Form Sample
Application Process: Step-By-Step Guide
Applying for the GSIS Funeral Benefit via email involves several steps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- A scanned copies of two valid IDs if you don’t have a GSIS UMID eCard or temporary eCard.
- A scanned copy of your duly accomplished Application Form.
- Borrower should provide either two valid IDs or their GSIS UMID eCard (or Temporary eCard) while holding them for a clear picture.
Note: Take a clear photo of both sides of two valid IDs.
Step 2: Take a Picture
Take a clear picture of yourself holding your two valid IDs or your GSIS UMID eCard (or Temporary eCard).
Step 3: Email Your Documents
Email all your files with a Subject Format: FUNERAL BENEFIT_(BP NUMBER)_LAST NAME_FIRST NAME_AGENCY.
Step 4: Wait for Acknowledgement
After sending your email, wait for an acknowledgment notification from GSIS. They will also provide further instructions.
Step 5: Online Applications
If you’re applying online, upload your documentary requirements along with the photo image of you holding your UMID card/temporary eCard, or if you don’t have either, your two valid IDs. Send your requirements to the designated email address provided by GSIS.
Remember to ensure that all your documents are clear and legible to prevent any delays in the processing of your application.
Also read: How to Apply DSWD Cash Aid Assistance for Senior Citizens
Video: GSIS Funeral Benefit
Watch this video to learn about GSIS Funeral Benefit. Under this program, GSIS grants a lumpsum payment that can help offset the costs associated with funeral arrangements. The beneficiary may use this payment to pay for a burial plot, casket and other related services.
Summary
The GSIS Members Funeral Benefit is a valuable resource to have during difficult times. As a member, you can rest assured that if the worst were to happen, your loved ones would have financial assistance to cover funeral expenses. It’s important to note that this benefit isn’t just available to active members – retirees are also eligible for this service. With the cost of funerals rising every year, this benefit can provide some much-needed relief to those dealing with the loss of a loved one. The GSIS Members Funeral Benefit is just one of the many ways that the Government Service Insurance System supports their members.
Contact Information
Address: Leon Kilat St., Brgy. Kalubihan, Cebu City, 6000
Email: mvpeenriquez@gsis.gov.ph, gsiscebu@gsis.gov.ph
Website: gsis.gov.ph
For Provincial Calls: 1-800-8-847-4747 (for Globe subscribers)
or 1-800-10-8474747 (for Smart subscribers)
