Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Guide

What is the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Program?

The Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Program is a mandatory requirement set by the Social Security System (SSS) to ensure that pensioners continue receiving their monthly pensions. This program verifies the pensioner's eligibility as per Republic Act No. 11199, also known as the Social Security Act of 2018.

Who Needs to Comply with ACOP?

The following categories of pensioners are required to comply with the ACOP Program:

• Retirement pensioners residing in the Philippines who are 80 years old and above (effective March 2024)

• Retirement pensioners residing abroad

• Total disability pensioners

• Death/Survivor pensioners

• Dependent children under guardianship

Note: Retirement pensioners in the Philippines who are below 80 years old may also be required to comply with ACOP under specific circumstances as determined by SSS.

How to Comply with ACOP?

Pensioners can comply with ACOP through multiple channels. The first step is downloading the appropriate ACOP form from the official SSS website. The available forms include:

• Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (For Retirement or Permanent Total Disability Pensioners)

• Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (For Surviving Legal Spouse Pensioners)

• Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (For Representative Payee of Dependent (Minor/Incapacitated) Child)

For more details, refer to Circular 2023-013 dated December 21, 2023, outlining the revised ACOP guidelines.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with ACOP can lead to serious consequences:

• Pension Suspension: The pension will be suspended one (1) month after the pensioner’s birth month or the birth month of the deceased member.

• Pension Cancellation: If the pension remains suspended for two (2) years, it will be automatically canceled.

Pension Resumption After ACOP Compliance

If a pensioner whose pension was suspended complies with the ACOP Program, their pension will be resumed within two (2) months from the date of compliance. Additionally:

• Any recalled pensions from the pensioner’s depository bank will be returned.

• All accrued pensions will be credited to the pensioner’s account.

Why ACOP Compliance is Essential

Compliance with ACOP ensures that pensioners continue receiving their rightful benefits without any disruptions. It is crucial to adhere to the reporting schedule to avoid unnecessary suspension or cancellation of pension payments.

For further details, visit the SSS official website or contact their customer service channels.

Reference: Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Program