The Social Security Fund (SSF) is Nepal’s national social protection scheme, providing financial security to formal and informal workers. With new updates for 2082 (2025/26), this guide explains registration, contribution rates, benefits, penalties, and compliance procedures in detail.
1. What is the Social Security Fund (SSF)?
The SSF is a mandatory contributory scheme managed by the Government of Nepal under the Social Security Act, 2017. It ensures workers receive benefits for:
- Healthcare
- Maternity/Paternity leave
- Disability coverage
- Old-age pension
- Unemployment support
All private sector employees, self-employed individuals, and gig workers must enroll.
2. Key Updates for SSF in 2082
A. Expanded Coverage
- Gig workers & freelancers can now voluntarily join.
- Agricultural workers included under a new pilot scheme.
B. Increased Contribution Ceiling
- Maximum taxable salary for SSF raised from NPR 300,000 to NPR 350,000/month.
C. Digital Improvements
- New online portal (ssf.gov.np) for easier registration.
- SMS-based contribution tracking (Send SSF to 41042).
D. Stricter Penalties
- Late payments: 2% monthly interest.
- False reporting: Fines up to NPR 500,000.
3. SSF Contribution Rates (2082)
Category | Employee Share | Employer Share | Total |
---|---|---|---|
Regular Employee | 11% of basic salary | 20% of basic salary | 31% |
Self-Employed | 11% (self-paid) | – | 11% |
Gig Workers | 8% (self-paid) | – | 8% |
Minimum & Maximum Contributions
- Minimum: NPR 1,650 (employee) + NPR 3,000 (employer)
- Maximum: NPR 38,500 (employee) + NPR 70,000 (employer)
4. Benefits of SSF in 2082
A. Medical Treatment
- Coverage up to NPR 700,000/year for hospitalization.
- Includes medicine, surgery, and diagnostics.
B. Maternity & Paternity Benefits
- 98 days paid leave for mothers.
- 15 days paid leave for fathers.
C. Disability Coverage
- Lump-sum payment up to NPR 1.5 million for permanent disability.
D. Old-Age Pension
- Monthly pension after 15 years of contributions.
- Must be 60+ years old to claim.
E. Unemployment Allowance
- 60% of last salary for 6 months if laid off.
5. How to Register for SSF?
For Employers
- Register at SSF Portal
- Submit:
- Company PAN
- Employee list with salary details
- Bank account information
- Start depositing contributions by the 15th of each month
For Employees (Self-Enrollment)
- Visit the nearest SSF office or apply online.
- Provide:
- Citizenship certificate
- PAN details
- Bank account information
- Choose contribution tier (NPR 1,650 – 38,500/month)
For Gig Workers & Freelancers
- Register via SSF mobile app or website.
- Link digital wallet (eSewa/Khalti) for automatic payments.
6. How to Check SSF Balance & Status?
- Online: Log in to ssf.gov.np
- SMS: Type SSF and send to 41042
- IVR Call: Dial 1660-01-55555
7. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violation | Penalty |
---|---|
Late contribution payment | 2% monthly interest |
False salary reporting | NPR 50,000 – 500,000 fine |
Not registering employees | NPR 10,000 per employee |
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is SSF mandatory for all workers?
- Yes for formal employees, voluntary for self-employed & gig workers.
Q2. Can NRIs contribute to SSF?
- No, only Nepal-based workers qualify.
Q3. What if I change jobs?
- SSF account remains active – inform your new employer.
Q4. When can I withdraw SSF funds?
- Only at retirement (60+), disability, or death.
Q5. How are SSF contributions taxed?
- Tax-deductible up to NPR 500,000/year.
9. Tips for Smooth SSF Compliance
✔ File contributions before the 15th of each month
✔ Keep digital records of all transactions
✔ Use SSF’s tax benefits (reduces taxable income)
✔ Verify employer contributions via SMS/online portal
10. Conclusion
The SSF is a critical safety net for Nepal’s workforce, ensuring healthcare, pensions, and unemployment protection. With new 2082 updates, more workers than ever can benefit.
Need Help?
- SSF Helpline: 1660-01-55555
- Email: info@ssf.gov.np
- Office Visit: Nearest SSF branch
💡 Bookmark this page for official SSF updates! 🚀