Iran’s Social Security Organization Implements Key Reforms for Pensioners, Gains International Recognition
Tehran – In a significant administrative move, Iran’s Social Security Organization (SSO) has issued new directives concerning the deduction of a one percent housing allowance from pensioners’ benefits. This reform, aligned with the amendment of Clause 22 of the organization’s consolidated bylaws, aims to streamline procedures and enhance member engagement with retirees’ associations.
New Opt-Out Mechanism for Existing Pensioners
A central feature of the new directive is the introduction of an opt-out clause for current retirees. For pensioners whose benefits were established before April 7, 2024, the one percent housing allowance deduction will be automatically allocated as membership dues for retirees’ associations. However, these individuals now have a six-month window from the directive’s issuance to formally and in writing object to this deduction through their local SSO branch.
Failure to object within this period will be considered consent, though pensioners retain the right to withdraw their consent at a later date.
Explicit Consent Required for New Retirees
For individuals who began receiving pensions on or after April 8, 2024, the process has been reversed. The SSO is now required to obtain written consent from new pensioners before any deduction can be made. Should a pensioner who initially consented later wish to revoke it, a written notification to their branch will stop the deduction from the next payment cycle.
The directive also clarifies the procedure for individuals who had previously withdrawn from the associations but wish to re-join, requiring a new formal application and consent form.
SSO Achieves High-Level International Role
In a separate but related development, the SSO’s international standing was reinforced at the recent World Social Security Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The CEO of Iran’s Social Security Organization was elected to the Governing Board of the International Social Security Association (ISSA).
Mohammad Ebrahim Javaheri, the SSO’s Deputy for Legal, Parliamentary, and International Affairs, highlighted the significance of this achievement. He noted that the forum, themed “Social Security for a World in Transition,” gathered over 1,500 participants from 150 countries.
During the event, the head of the SSO’s International Affairs department presented Iran’s perspectives and achievements in implementing cohesive social security systems and providing affordable healthcare. A research paper titled “Social Security Protection for Covered Persons Throughout Life – A Case Study of the Islamic Republic of Iran” was also unveiled.
Furthermore, a short film produced by the SSO, titled “Refuge,” was selected as a finalist from 261 entries from 96 organizations in 69 countries, receiving a certificate of recognition.
Javaheri emphasized that this marks the eighth consecutive term that Iran’s SSO has been elected to the ISSA Governing Board, a testament to its extensive coverage, diverse services, and active role in global social security governance. The new three-year term on the board will run from 2026 to 2028.