Having a unique identification is crucial part of any legal transactions, especially in a modern world where fraudulence is rampant and anyone can claim to be someone they are not. It is therefore very important for individuals to possess a true-to-themselves identification card to go through any legal procedures seamlessly and without future problems.
In the Philippines, there are plenty of ways a person could provide proof of himself such as having a professional license, driver’s license, passport, etc.
But in a country where there is not a collective database of its citizens as represented by a single ID card or nationalized card, sometimes going through government transactions imply having the need to avail of multiple IDs representative of different programs like SSS, GSIS, PAG-IBIG, and PHILHEALTH.
If you are a typical Filipino who is invested in each of these programs, this would mean being a carrier of multiple cards befitting each. Back in the day, this might indeed be the truth for all. Nowadays, however, all these can be merged into a single ID card aptly called the Unified Multi-purpose ID or UMID.
See also: Valid IDs in the Philippines
What is a Unified Multi-purpose ID?
Encompassing SSS, GSIS, PAG-IBIG, and PHILHEALTH programs, the UMID is true to its label as a multi-purpose card. This means that, instead of presenting each different card to any of these government programs for a transaction, the UMID card alone is valid.
Needless to say, the benefits of a single-card system cannot be overemphasized especially when highlighting the flaws inherent in a multi-card system. It is very convenient in many ways, to say the least.
Where can I sign up and get my UMID card?
If you are a government employee, getting your UMID card is as simple as heading to the nearest GSIS Enrollment Center.
For private employees, self-employed individuals, OFWs and member of SSS, the best method of getting your UMID card is by going to the nearest SSS branch in the area.
Via SSS
The Social Security System or SSS is the core of the Unified Multi-purpose ID system which means that applying for your card in this route is most optimal. But before heading to a specific branch of your choosing, ensure that you are or have the following requirements in your portfolio:
- A filled-out application form
- 2 valid IDs (photocopied and original)
- Must be an active member of the SSS program
For convenience’s sake, the application form can now be downloaded online if you visit SSS’ official website.
But if you do not have an access to a computer or an internet connection at home, you can also get the same form directly at the SSS branch.
UMID Card Application Steps and Procedures
Applying for a UMID card via SSS is relatively streamlined and straightforward. When all your credentials have been verified, the procedure should go smoothly towards taking your photo, signature, and fingerprints. From there, you will be given an application slip which indicates the date when you could expect the arrival of your card by mail.
Via GSIS
If you are a GSIS member, pensioner and has an eCard Plus, getting the UMID card remains mandatory. You simply cannot be an active member without a UMID card, at the very least.
But fret not, GSIS has plenty of Enrollment Centers scattered across the country which are tasked to handle anyone’s UMID card concern.
There are two ways you could enroll for a UMID card:
- New enrollee
- Member with an eCard Plus (simply go to a branch)
Requirements
- Enrollment form
If you are a new enrollee to the GSIS UMID card, simply get your enrollment form here.
- 2 valid IDs or your eCard Plus
Unified Multi-purpose ID Application Procedure
Similar to the procedure conducted at SSS, the first step in your application process is identity verification based on the requirements as well as your existing records. Past this, you move on to the picture, signature-taking, and fingerprint scanning.
If you are simply a member and not a pensioner, your UMID card is to be handed over to you by an Agency Liaison Officer. Otherwise, for pensioners, it will be delivered over to the home address by mail. According to SSS, the UMID card will be delivered within 30 days of the application after it has been processed.
UMID Card Activation
It is worth noting that a freshly-delivered UMID card is not necessarily useful out-of-the-box. But for it to be, it needs to be activated. The process, however, is automated and will kick in within the next 72 hours upon receiving your card.
You will know that your UMID card is already activated when you received a confirmation message telling it is so.
But, in a random case where yours did not go through activation within the allotted time, feel free to refer to a GSIS staff with regards to your concern.
That’s it! If you have any questions regarding the UMID application process and its requirements, feel free to drop a comment below and we’ll try our best to help you out.
Paano po magpa verify sa sss through online