How to Get UMID ID in the Philippines

Last Updated – May 15, 2023 @ 5:39 pm

The recent move by the government to integrate several different social security schemes into one card has been met with some skepticism.

However, the new UMID ID is considered more secure than its predecessors because biometric data is embedded for authentication purposes. It was created as an all-in-one card seamlessly linked to other government-based services for more secure, faster, and convenient identification of its holder.

Are you planning to get a UMID ID soon? You’re in the right place!

What is UMID?

Also known as the Unified Multi-purpose Identification, UMID is the latest government ID that integrates three of its agencies: Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), and Pag-IBIG Fund.

A unique smart chip installed contains all the cardholder’s data, including signature, facial features, biometrics, etc. Furthermore, the security features in this chip cannot be replicated nor hacked. It is currently the most reliable ID to validate for most transactions within and outside the agencies mentioned.

Compared to getting a passport, applying for a UMID Card is faster and more convenient. So, if you’re looking to get a valid ID for opening a bank account or applying for a job, getting a UMID card is the most convenient way.

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Where is a UMID used?

The UMID is a time-saving ‘tool’ for every Filipino. It makes interactions with government agencies such as SSS (Social Security System), GSIS (Government Service Insurance), Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF), and PhilHealth more efficient.

This identification card is a win-win for both the government and citizens. It saves both from costly renewals while avoiding long queues in the process. It has lifelong validity, which means that you don’t have to worry about maintaining multiple cards to get a valid ID for government and non-government transactions.

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Who is eligible to apply for a UMID?

• Individuals who are SSS members are eligible to apply for UMID. You need to have an active SSS number.
• Active GSIS members can also apply for a UMID from any accredited GSIS branch offering this service.
• Indigents and PhilHealth members can also apply for this card from agencies offering this service.

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UMID Card Requirements in 2023: Essential Documents and Process

Securing a UMID card is a straightforward process, but being well-prepared can ensure a hassle-free application experience. These are the key requirements you need for a UMID card:

1. Personal Appearance: The UMID application process requires personal attendance due to necessary biometric data collection and photo capture. As such, proxies or representatives cannot apply on your behalf. The good news is that your ID will be processed within the day, eliminating the need for multiple visits.
2. UMID Application Form: Complete the UMID application form, which is readily available for download on the SSS or GSIS websites. Fill in all the required information accurately.
3. Primary Valid IDs: Bring along any of the following primary valid IDs for identity verification:
   • Driver’s License
   • Passport
   • Social Security 2D Barcode ID Card
   • National ID
   • PhilID Card
   • PRC ID
   • Seaman’s Book
   • Voter’s ID
   • Alien Certificate of Registration
   • Firearm Registration
   • NBI Clearance
   • Postal ID

If you do not possess any of the primary valid IDs listed above, bring two different IDs or documents. Both should bear your signature, and at least one should have your photo.

Follow these steps, and you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth UMID application experience.

UMID Requirements for SSS members

If you have an older SSS ID, the UMID is the more updated and safer version. With better security features, it’s one of the reasons why carrying a UMID takes away the stress of constantly updating other government IDs. Here’s how to apply if you’re already an SSS member:

• You must have an active SSS number. If you don’t have one or are unsure if it’s active or not, you can check your number through the SSS member portal.
• Filled out UMID application form.
• Have given at least a month’s worth of SSS contribution.
• It would be best if you were employed to avail this ID. As part of their requirements, you need to show previous coverage contributions.
• At least two (2) valid IDs (e.g. Professional License, Driver’s License, Passport). If you don’t have government-based IDs, you can submit a birth certificate, ATM card, or bank account passbook as an alternative.
• Individuals who fall under the Kasambahay category need to have permanent SSS status, including the employer’s proof of contribution (SSS form R5).

UMID Requirements for GSIS members

Active GSIS members can also apply for UMID, especially for any loan-related transactions, with any GSIS establishment.

• Download and fill out the GSIS UMID-eCard form found on the GSIS website.
• Bring at least two (2) government-based IDs or alternative identifications such as birth certificates, NBI clearance, or bank account passbooks.

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How to Get UMID in the Philippines (Step-by-Step)

How to Get UMID for SSS Members

Two ways to file an application for a UMID for all SSS members:

1. Active SSS members can check their My.SSS portal and look for an appointment date to have your biometrics taken from any nearby SSS branch.
2. Visit any SSS branches and apply for a UMID.

Easy steps to apply for a UMID:

Step 1: You need to secure an appointment before scheduling a UMID application. Visit your My.SSS member’s portal and check for an appointment. You can also schedule an appointment in any preferred SSS branch using the UMID Enrollment facilities.

Step 2: On the day of the appointment, you need to bring all of your requirements with you. Be sure to bring original copies of your valid IDs for verification purposes.

Step 3: Once all requirements are approved, you will proceed to the biometrics capture booth.

Step 4: After all requirements and biometrics have been approved, the SSS staff will inform you of the claim date for your UMID. Typically, a UMID is ready for pickup within 30 days. However, with an ongoing pandemic, it might take more time to get your ID processed. You will receive a text message or email from the SSS office informing you to pick up your UMID once available.

Step 5: Upon receiving your UMID, you can activate it in any of the self-service kiosks within the establishment.

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How to Get UMID for GSIS Members

Step 1: You can visit any GSIS branch, ask for a UMID application, and schedule an appointment to capture your biometrics.

However, you may also check the GSIS website and download the UMID eCard Enrollment form for your convenience and safety. Fill out all the necessary details and bring this along with the other requirements. Be sure to get an appointment scheduled before coming to any GSIS establishment.

Step 2: On your scheduled appointment, bring all the necessary documents and original IDs. You will be walked through by the staff on how to proceed with the biometrics and photo ID capture.

Step 3: After biometrics has been taken, a GSIS staff will inform you of the date when your UMID will be available for pick-up. Most often, they will contact you through text or email.

Step 4: Upon claiming your UMID eCard, you can activate it using the self-service kiosks within the establishment.

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How to Get a UMID for Pag-IBIG members?

Step 1: Visit the Pag-IBIG Fund website and select the UMID application form from the site. Be sure to fill out the form neatly and avoid erasures.

Step 2: On the day of your scheduled appointment, bring the necessary documents, including your membership data forms. These will serve as identification for active members.

Step 3: After all your documents have been approved, you will be directed to a booth to take your picture, biometrics, and signature.

Step 4: Once this is done, you will be informed of the date when you can claim or receive your UMID.

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How to Get UMID Online

With everything moving towards digital nowadays, getting a UMID has never been easier and more convenient. Here’s a quick step-by-step to register for a UMID online.

Step 1: Active SSS and GSIS members can check their respective member’s portals. Look for a UMID application form, download it, and fill out the necessary details. Be sure to read all instructions and fill out all components required to avoid delays throughout your UMID processing.

Step 2: Write all the details in capital letters using blue or black ink. If the item is not applicable in your case, just write N/A.

Step 3: All documents should be clear and devoid of erasures if you’re writing everything by hand. However, adding details using the online form prevents this from happening. Indicate your preferred SSS or GSIS branch as indicated in the form.

Step 4: Visit any SSS or GSIS branch along with the documents and original copies of valid IDs.

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How to Apply for UMID ATM Card

You can avail of a UMID ATM card in the UMID registration form.

Once your preferred bank has been approved, you can visit any UnionBank (or LandBank) institution or booth for ATM activation.

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How to Verify your UMID Card Status?

For SSS members:

• Go to your My.SSS member’s portal. Use the user ID and password provided as log-in credentials.
• Once you have submitted your credentials, check the tab with ‘E-Services’, then click ‘inquiry’.
• Then, check the ‘Member Info’ and view the ‘SSS ID card’ option.
• You will see the ‘SSS ID Card Production Information’ table. Click the last row containing the tab ‘Transaction/Card Status’. You will see here all the details from when your ID was generated to the expected date for mailing.
• If for any reason you still didn’t get any updates through text, email, or call, you can follow this up with the SSS ID Card Production Department. You can submit the following details to idcpd@sss.gov.ph, including two (2) sets of photo-bearing valid IDs with signatures:
  • Full name
  • UMID registration date
  • Unique 10-digit SSS number provided upon application   

SSS will usually send a response with a screenshot of the transaction, tracking number, common reference number, and the reason why it has been on hold or returned.

For GSIS members:

• Your UMID account is processed after following the steps to activate it in a GSIS Wireless Activated Processing System kiosk. You will be notified within 72 hours once you can fully access its features.
• Once you get a confirmation from the eCard Customer Service, you can check for online banking through the GSIS website.
• Click on the bank you registered (Unionbank or Landbank).
• Log in using your GSIS eCard number and registered pin.
• Select the appropriate financing option.

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How to Replace Lost/Damaged/Unclaimed UMID Card?

The exact process is followed for lost, damaged, or unclaimed UMID cards. However, here are a few additional steps to take for specific situations.

Replacement request for lost or non-received ID:

• Bring an affidavit of loss notarized by an accredited lawyer along with all the necessary documents for verification.

UMID replacement requests (except for error in data encoding and previous UMID screening):

• Have a Miscellaneous Payment form (R-6 form) filled out with a PHP 200 fee ready during your scheduled appointment. Be sure to bring all the necessary documents you’ll need, similar to the first-time application, for verification purposes.

UMID replacement request (except for missing or non-received UMID):

• Download a UMID application form and fill out the necessary details. Bring your old UMID card with standard application documents.

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10 Tips on Getting your UMID Card

To facilitate a faster and smoother UMID registration, here are a few more ‘tricks and tips’ to make a smoother UMID application experience.

1. You can get your UMID pin code using the SSS or GSIS self-service kiosk in any accredited branch.

After you’ve finished creating an SSS account online, you can request a pin code from the SSS information terminal or from the SSS branch where you asked for your UMID.

This unique pin code will be used to activate your card and unlock its benefits, especially if you’re using the UMID-ATM card. This will allow you to have immediate access to requested funds and withdraw in cash (instead of checks).

2. Don’t trust fixers to provide ‘immediate’ UMID processing

To set the record straight: there’s no rush to UMID processing. You may encounter spam texts or promotions selling your UMID services. Ignore this and follow the process provided by personnel from accredited agencies.

3. Old SSS IDs could be obsolete

SSS IDs issued between 1998 to 2010 are still valid and can be used in any self-service kiosks and accredited branches.

However, for IDs issued before 1998, you will need to get the new UMID to have access to convenient and security features that come with the latest SSS or GSIS updates.

4. Don’t wear revealing or inappropriate clothing

Casual clothing is permissible inside these accredited agencies. However, wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing tops may get you barred from entering the premises.

Also, if you’re wearing contact lenses, glasses, or dangling earrings during your scheduled appointment for the biometrics, you need to remove them beforehand to avoid any delays in processing your UMID.

5. Have an authorized letter ready on your behalf

As your ID may be delivered through the mail, you may need to anticipate that you won’t be receiving the item due to work or other activities requiring you to travel outside the city. 

In this case, have someone authorized to receive your UMID in your home or establishment. Just have the authorization letter along with a photocopy of your valid ID with signature-ready beforehand. This way, the postman will be able to release your UMID and not have it sent back to the post office.

6. Make sure to indicate the complete address

When you’re registering your UMID, you will be asked for a permanent/residential address. Make sure to give the complete address, including your barangay, zip code, and region or province. Follow the format indicated in the form to avoid any delays. 

7. Check your application status in the member’s portal

You can check your SSS UMID status by checking the My.SSS account in the ‘members info’ tab. From here, you can click the ‘UMID/SSS ID details’ and see the status of your application through the transaction status area.

Alternatively, you can also check your UMID status through email. You need to include the following details to get updates from SSS:

• Complete name
• Active SSS number
• Concern
• Scanned photo of your valid ID (National ID or Phil ID) or two (2) government-issued IDs with your photo and signature
• A selfie holding the IDs or documents attached in the email

Attach all scanned documents (not more than 30 MB in size) in your email and send them to sss_id2@sss.gov.ph.

8. Once you receive your UMID, you need to activate it

To unlock its features, you need to go to the nearest self-service kiosk and activate your card. You can also ask the establishment’s staff how to proceed with activation.

9. Be sure to come personally to apply for UMID

You need to be physically there to apply for a UMID since they will be taking your photo, getting your signature, and taking your biometrics during the set appointment.

If you’re planning to walk in to apply for a UMID, you need to follow the branch number coding system to be accommodated.  

10. You won’t be charged for anything when you apply for a UMID

There will be no late registration fees and other charges when you register for this ID for the first time. However, payments will only apply for lost IDs, or SSS old ID replacements will be charged PHP 200*.

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UMID FAQs