Title: Social Security Implements Streamlined Housing Allowance Policy for Pensioners
In a move to enhance administrative transparency and efficiency, the Social Security Organization has announced a new directive governing the deduction of housing allowances from pensioner benefits. The policy introduces a clear, two-tiered system based on the date a pensioner’s benefits were established.
A Dual-Tiered System for Clarity
The newly amended guideline, based on multiple resolutions from the Social Security board of directors, establishes distinct procedures for different groups of retirees.
For pensioners whose benefits were established before April 8, 2024, the policy operates on an “opt-out” basis. The absence of a written objection to their local Social Security branch will be considered as consent for the standard five percent housing allowance deduction. The organization emphasizes that retirees retain the right to submit a written refusal at any later date.
Conversely, for individuals whose pensions are established on or after April 15, 2024, an “opt-in” approach will be mandatory. The five percent deduction will only be applied after the pensioner provides explicit written consent. Should a retiree who initially consented later submit a written withdrawal, the deduction will be halted starting from the very next pension payment.
Emphasis on Digital Services and Re-enrollment
The Social Security Organization has mandated its executive units to guide all pensioners toward using the organization’s non-attendance (online) service portal to submit their agreement or refusal regarding the housing allowance deduction. The Public Relations Department is also tasked with notifying beneficiaries via SMS and other methods to encourage the use of this digital system.
The directive also addresses retirees who had previously withdrawn from housing association membership. For re-enrollment, they must submit a formal written request and consent form, upon which the local branches will reactivate the deduction from the next payable pension.
Senior management, including provincial managers and heads of relevant departments, have been entrusted with the responsibility for the proper implementation of this new regulation.