The Social Security System (SSS) has launched the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus, a novel retirement savings plan for its members. The SSS has been promoting a culture of work, save, invest, and prosper amongst its members, and WISP Plus embodies this ethos. This program provides a dual benefit of saving and investing. It is an economical and tax-exempt savings plan that enables members to save by making contributions to the program and lets them invest as their money accrues earnings.
Also read: How to Calculate SSS Retirement Pension Benefits Online
With the introduction of the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus, the Social Security System (SSS) has taken another step towards providing a robust retirement savings scheme for its members. Members can start contributing to the WISP Plus with payments as low as Php500 at any time. The SSS offers its members the opportunity to earn investment returns at rates that exceed those typically offered by banks.
What are the Benefits of WISP Plus?
The Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) offers several benefits to members of the Social Security System (SSS).
- Saving and Investing: WISP Plus allows members to save and invest simultaneously. The contributions made by members not only help them save but also generate earnings over time, acting as an investment.
- Affordability: With a minimum contribution of just P500, it’s an accessible program for many members, making it easier for more people to start saving and investing for their future.
- Tax-Free: The contributions made to the WISP Plus are tax-free, which means members get to keep more of their money.
- Higher Returns: WISP Plus offers investment earnings at rates that are often higher than those provided by traditional banks. This can lead to greater growth of your savings over time.
- Flexibility: Members can contribute to WISP Plus at any time, providing flexibility in terms of when and how much they wish to invest.
- Secured Future: By contributing to WISP Plus, members are effectively securing their future, as the program aims to augment members’ retirement package.
Remember, it’s always important to understand all aspects of a savings and investment program before you decide to participate. It’s recommended to consult with a financial advisor or conduct thorough research to ensure the program aligns with your financial goals.
Who is Eligible to Become a Member of WISP Plus?
The Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus is open to all members of the Social Security System (SSS).
This includes those following:
- Employed
- Self-employed
- Voluntary contributors
- Overseas Filipino Workers.
To be eligible for the WISP Plus program, members must have at least one posted contribution to the regular SSS program and should not have any final claims under it. Even first-time SSS registrants are welcome to enroll in the WISP Plus program when they are securing their SSS number.
In essence, if you’re an SSS member and meet these criteria, you can take advantage of the WISP Plus program and start investing for your future.
Also read: How to Get a Loan from SSS
How to Enroll in WISP Plus?
a. Existing members
- Existing Members can enroll in the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus through their My.SSS online account. They just need to review and accept the Terms and Conditions of the SSS WISP Plus Program. Once enrolled, they can easily monitor their WISP Plus contributions and earnings using the same My.SSS account.
b. For individuals registering with SSS for the first time
- They can enroll in the WISP Plus program during the online application process for their SS Number on the SSS website. As soon as they receive their SS Number, they are automatically enrolled in WISP Plus, enabling them to start contributing and earning right away.
When and How Do Members Contribute in WISP Plus?
Members can contribute to the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus at their discretion, as it is a voluntary contribution scheme. Contributions can be made whenever it suits the member, providing flexibility and convenience.
The minimum amount for each contribution is Php500.00. These contributions can be made through any SSS Teller or any other accredited payment channel that the SSS endorses.
While there’s a minimum contribution amount, there’s no specified maximum limit. However, members wishing to contribute larger sums should be aware that these may be subject to the guidelines set by the chosen payment channel. This can include restrictions on the maximum amount per transaction, the method of payment, daily limits, and other rules in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
When is a Member Allowed to Withdraw Money from their savings in the WISP Plus?
Members can start withdrawing from their savings in the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus after a one-year holding period, though this will result in receiving a reduced income. If members choose to wait for the full five-year maturity period before making a withdrawal, they will receive the full interest income.
However, exceptions are made for withdrawals within the first year of membership under certain extreme hardship conditions. These include:
- Critical illness of the member
- Involuntary separation from employment
- Repatriation of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) member from their host country
Additionally, the Social Security System (SSS) may also allow early withdrawals under other similar conditions that they deem appropriate.
Also read: Easy Steps to Check Your SSS Contributions Online
TIPS for Members Who Wish to Avail SSS WISP Plus
- Understand the Program: Before joining WISP Plus, take time to understand the program, its requirements, and benefits. This will help you make an informed decision and plan your contributions effectively.
- Regular Contributions: While contributions are voluntary and can be made at any time, regular contributions can lead to more significant accumulated savings and earnings over time.
- Maximize the Maturity Period: To fully benefit from the interest income, consider waiting for the full five-year maturity period before making a withdrawal. Early withdrawals will result in reduced income.
- Monitor Your Account: Make use of the My.SSS account to regularly track your contributions and earnings. This will help you stay updated on your savings growth.
- Plan for Hardship Conditions: Be aware that early withdrawals under extreme hardship conditions are allowed. Plan your savings accordingly to ensure you have enough funds in case of unexpected events like critical illness or involuntary job loss.
- Use Accredited Payment Channels: When making contributions, use SSS endorsed payment channels to ensure secure and efficient transactions.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the release of the Fund’s financial statement at the end of each calendar year, as your share of the investment income is determined then and credited to your account within five working days thereafter.
Remember, the WISP Plus program is an excellent way to save and invest for your future. The more active and informed you are, the better you can maximize its benefits.
Video: SSS WISP PLUS Complete Guide 2023 | Paano mag invest sa SSS WISP Plus?
To learn about SSS WISP Plus and how to obtain it, please watch this video.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is WISP Plus?
A: The Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) Plus is a voluntary contribution scheme for Social Security System (SSS) members. It offers a way for members to invest and earn income over time.
2. How are earnings credited to my WISP Plus account?
A: Contributions earn their share of the Fund’s investment income from the first day of the following month. The investment income, distributed proportionately based on members’ total accumulated account value, is determined at the end of the calendar year and credited to the member’s account within five working days after the release of the Fund’s financial statement.
3. Can I monitor my contributions and earnings?
A: Yes, members can monitor their WISP Plus contributions and earnings through their My.SSS online account.
4. How are earnings added to the WISP Plus accounts?
A: Starting on the first day of the following month, SSS WISP Plus contributors’ shares in the Fund’s investment income for that month will be earned. This income will be distributed based on the total accumulated account value of each member and will be credited to their account within five working days after the end of the calendar year once the Fund’s financial statement has been released.
5. How are the investments made with WISP Plus contributions?
A: To protect the invested capital, the SSS invests in a mix of government securities, corporate or multilateral institutions, equities, short and medium-term loans, money market, and other BSP-approved investment instruments, as well as loans to pensioners. The interest earnings are compared to the average rates of Treasury Bills or any other acceptable market yield indicator.
Summary
WISP Plus is the newest retirement savings scheme available for members to invest in their future. This program offers the opportunity to enroll now and start saving for a comfortable retirement. With WISP Plus, members can rest assured that their savings will be in good hands and will continue to grow as an investment.
The main goal is to help members achieve their retirement goals by providing them with a hassle-free and stress-free way to save for their future. Don’t wait any longer to take advantage of this unbeatable savings opportunity, enroll now in WISP Plus and secure a brighter retirement!
Contact Information
Customer Service: 1-800-10-2255777
Email: member_relations@sss.gov.ph
Website: https://member.sss.gov.ph/members/
