How The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) works In Ghana

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is a statutory public Trust in Ghana mandated to administer Ghana's Basic National Social Security Scheme as directed by the National Pension Act, 2008 Act 766

SSNIT undertakes several roles:

1. It replaces some of the workers' lost income in Ghana due to invalidity, old age, or death of a member where dependents receive lump-sum payments.
2. It collects contributions from registered employees and pays pensions and other benefits.
3. It's responsible for paying Emigration benefits to non-Ghanaian members who are leaving Ghana permanently. 

Let's explore how SSNIT works as we answer some of the frequently asked questions. 

How do I register for SSNIT? 

To register, you can visit any SSNIT branch near you with any of the following documents (valid):

1. National ID
2. Voter's card 
3. Drivers License 
4. Passport
5. Employer ID 
6. National Health Insurance Card

You should also bring an appointment letter as proof of employment. However, self-employed persons don't need to provide appointment letters. 

Is SSNIT registration free? 

SSNIT registration is free of charge. 

Is it compulsory to pay SSNIT in Ghana? 

All workers in the formal sector must pay SSNIT, but it's optional for self-employed persons working in Ghana. It's also worth noting that the first two Tiers are mandatory for all workers, and the Third-Tier is voluntary and privately managed. 

Who qualifies for SSNIT in Ghana? 

You must be between 55 and 60 years old. Additionally, you must have made a minimum contribution of 180 months (15 years) as outlined in Act 766 and 240 months (20 years) as per the PNDCL 247. 

How long does it take to get your SSNIT card? 

After going through SSNIT biometric registration at any branch, it takes about 7 to 15 working days to generate your card. 

How do I link my SSNIT number to my Ghana Card online? 

Below is a simple step to link the SSNIT number to the Ghana card: 

1. Dial *711*9# on your mobile phone
2. Select option 1 
3. Then enter your SSNIT number 
4. Enter your Ghana Card number 
5. Press send 
6. Select option 1 
7. Wait for a confirmation message

How do I change my SSNIT Portal password? 

To change the password:

1. Click on the "Change Password" on the side menu. 
2. Answer the security question. 
3. Type your current password and confirm it 
4. Type a new password and re-enter it for verification 
5. Then click the "Change Password" button to proceed with other services. 

How do I check my SSNIT account status online? 

To check your SSNIT status, follow the below procedure: 

1. Visit SSNIT's official website (https://www.ssnit.org.gh/) 
2. Login to the portal (use the correct username and password) 
3. Click "My Statement" 
4. Enter your security credentials 
5. Now you have access to view your contributions and benefits 

Note: if you've not updated your records with the Trust, you won't access your SSNIT contribution statement online. 

How can I pay my SSNIT online? 

SSNIT has a partnership with several banks in Ghana, including GTB Bank, Ecobank, UBA, Cal Bank, Standard Chartered, and Stanbic Bank, where individual members or employers can pay contributions online. 

What are the types of benefits of SSNIT in Ghana? 

There are four types of benefits under the SSNIT scheme that members enjoy: 

1. Invalidity Pension 
2. Superannuation / Old age Pension 
3. Emigration benefit
4. Survivor's Lump Sum 

What percentage of salary goes to SSNIT? 

Act 766 requires employers to contribute 13.5 per cent of their employees' basic salary to the mandatory First-Tier Basic Social Security Scheme.

At what age does SSNIT stop paying? 

SSNIT stops paying pension when the pensioner dies. However, the PNDCL 247 requires that if a pensioner dies before reaching the age of 72, the remaining monthly pension payments (up to age 72) are paid to the pensioner's beneficiaries. 

Is SSNIT a government agency? 

Yes. The SSNIT is an agency of the government of Ghana formed in 1965. Dr John Oferi-Tenkorang is the Director-General. Its headquarters are located in Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana. 

Do you have to inform SSNIT if you change your name or address? 

Yes. Members of SSNIT who change their names or address should inform the nearest SSNIT office to update records. 

Can I withdraw my SSNIT contribution? 

No. You cannot withdraw your SSNIT contribution because it does not function as a saving scheme. 

What is the deadline for SSNIT and NIA merger in 2022? 

According to a media release, the SSNIT and NIA number merger was extended to 30th June 2022.