Being a senior citizen in the Philippines still has benefits despite getting older with time along with pains. They can make use of benefits that are only available once they reach the age of 60 thanks to the senior citizen ID, one of the numerous initiatives established by Philippine laws.
So, if your elderly parent or relative doesn’t have a card yet or is unable to process one, take the time to help him or her. If a senior citizen has an ID card, the discounts and benefits are always useful.
What is a Senior Citizen ID card?
One of the recognized types of id in the Philippines is a Senior Citizen ID Card, which is provided to senior citizens by the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA). The Republic Acts Nos. 9994 and 10645 grant the holder of a Senior Citizen’s ID Card the right to take advantage of benefits, privileges, and assistance from the government, therefore getting one is important. A Senior Citizen’s ID card is not available to everyone, unless, of course, you meet the minimum eligibility requirements.
Benefits
A senior citizen ID provides the holder with more than just a permanent form of one’s identity. The ID serves as a passport on its own to receive the following benefits.
- 20% discount
- Exemptions
- Government assistance
- Utility discount
- And other benefits
Qualifications
The qualifications below must be met for a senior citizen to be eligible to enjoy the rights and benefits provided by the law.
- 60 years of age or older
- A resident of the Philippines and a Filipino citizen
- Seniors with dual citizenship may also apply for a Senior Citizen’s ID Card in the Philippines if they can show documentation of their Filipino citizenship and have lived there for at least 6 (six) months.
Requirements
Each document should be submitted in two (2) copies: an original and a duplicate or photocopy.
- 1×1 recent ID picture
- Birth Certificate
- Photocopy of valid ID (Driver’s License, NBI Clearance, Old residence certificate, Police Clearance, Postal ID)
How to apply for a Senior Citizen ID card in the Philippines – OSCA office
Follow these instructions to quickly apply for a Senior ID card in the Philippines. It is encouraged that first-time applicants submit their applications in person at the OSCA in order to simplify verification.
Step 1: Visit the Senior Citizens Affairs Office (OSCA) in the city or municipality where you are currently living. The office is typically located in your town’s or city’s municipal building.
Step 2: Request the application form from staff or an administrator.
Step 3: Complete the application form by entering all the required information. (Unfinished applications will not be accepted.)
Step 4: When submitting the application form, include photocopies of all required documents.
Senior Citizen ID Card applications are free of charge.
Step 5: The person in charge will review the application and supporting documentation after receiving it. The application will be approved if all requirements are met.
Step 6: You will receive an acknowledgment receipt. Please keep it for reference in the future.
Step 7: The application will then go through another process. The applicant’s mobile number will get all updates regarding the status of the application via SMS.
Step 8: After the procedure is complete, the office will call the applicant to discuss the application.
Step 9: The applicant will receive an ID card either directly from the office or via the municipality office.
The entire process might be finished in a week or according to the schedule suggested by the appropriate department authority.
How to apply for a Senior Citizen ID card in the Philippines – Online
Follow these instructions to quickly apply online for a Senior Citizen ID card in the Philippines.
Step 1: Click and visit the link.
Link: https://www.oscaportal.com/registration.php
Step 2: Fill in all the required information in the application form.
Step 3: Upload your valid id.
Step 4: Double-check all the information before ticking the “I Agree Terms & Conditions” button and the “Submit” button.
Step 5: The application and document set will be examined by the responsible authority. The application will be approved if all requirements are met. The application will then go through another process.
Step 6: The applicant’s mobile number will get all updates regarding the status of the application through SMS.
Step 7: The applicant will receive a call from the office on the application after the procedure is complete.
Step 8: The applicant will receive an ID card either directly from the office or via the municipality office.
The entire process might be finished in a single day or according to the schedule suggested by the appropriate department authority.
Video: Only 3 Requirements to apply for Senior Citizens ID card 60yrs old in the #Philippines
Watch the video below from Jean’s Simple Life to know more about how to apply for a Senior Citizen ID card in the Philippines. The Youtuber highlights the three (3) important requirements upon applying.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gsq32_9k05Q
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have, any further questions regarding “How to apply for a Senior Citizen ID card in the Philippines” see the list of frequently asked questions and answers below.
1. How much is the senior citizen ID card?
You’ll be happy to know that the OSCA ID is free of charge to senior citizens both online and offline. To get your ID, all you need to do is fill out an application and provide the required documentation.
2. After applying, how long does it usually take to get an OSCA ID?
Upon registering with OSCA, a new ID can be immediately available, or you’ll be able to acquire one in five (5) working days after applying. Keep in mind that the duration is based on your municipality or locality.
3. My senior citizen ID was issued in the province. Can I use the same card in Metro Manila?
Yes, the senior citizen ID card is accepted across the Philippines.
4. Can I still get the 20% discount if I don’t have my senior citizen ID card?
Yes, you can. You may use any of the following forms of identification in its place if you don’t have a senior citizen card: passport, a government-issued ID that states your age or date of birth, such as a driver’s license, voter’s ID, SSS/GSIS ID, PRC Card, or Postal ID, or any other legal records proving you are a citizen of the Philippines and at least sixty (60) years old.
5. I lost my senior citizen ID card. What shall I do?
You can get a replacement card by going to the OSCA office in the city or municipality where you live. The following documents must be submitted:
- Two (2) copies of the Affidavit of Loss
- Two (2) copies of the Police or Barangay Report
- ID replacement fee, if required
Summary
If you are a Filipino citizen in your 60s residing in the Philippines, you are eligible for a number of senior citizen privileges and benefits. Additionally, it’s a simple process to apply for; you can do it online or at the OSCA office in your municipality.