No More Paper! SSB Plans to Go Fully Digital with Sickness Benefit Claims

Starting December 1st, the Social Security Board (SSB) will require all sickness benefit claims to be submitted online through the My Social Security portal. The shift marks the end of paper-based submissions for this benefit.

According to Vaessa Vellos, SSB’s Communications and PR Manager, the decision follows nearly a year of internal testing and user feedback. “We feel that the system is robust enough for us to now take the next leap in the journey of having full online submission for sickness benefit claims.” 

Previously, claimants had to fill out forms manually, visit their workplace’s HR department, see a doctor, and return documents in person. The new system allows employees, employers, and doctors to complete their portions of the claim electronically. “Now you control the narrative… with my portal account, I can do all aspects of that online.”

SSB says it aims to process and pay sickness benefits within three business days under the new system. “Isn’t their time more valuable than standing in line?” she added. 

For those less comfortable with technology, Vellos assured that support is available. “We have customer service agents ready and willing to assist you, to interact with the portal, and learn how to use it.”

The board processes roughly 5,600 sickness claims each month, and over 70,000 users are already registered on the portal. SSB says retirement and maternity benefits will also move online in the near future.