The DSWD Solo Parent ID is a government-issued identification card that solo parents can use to avail of certain benefits and privileges. To be eligible for the ID, solo or single parents must have primary custody of their child/children and must be registered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The ID is valid for one year and can be renewed upon expiration.
According to the Philippines Solo Parents Welfare Act RA 8972, the Solo Parent ID entitles its holders to a number of benefits, including support from the government and entitled leave benefits. These leaves can be used for attending to their child’s needs or for taking care of themselves in times of illness.
Also read: How to Apply DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors
An identification card for single parents, known as a solo parent ID, is a government-issued document that provides a variety of benefits to both the individual and their household. These include access to discounted public transport and various discounts at various businesses.
A study conducted by the WHO and a local institute revealed that there are about 14 million solo parents in the Philippines. This figure can be attributed to various reasons, such as death, abandonment, or being unmarried. These individuals face many challenges and come from different backgrounds. Here’s what you need to know about the solo parent ID.
What is a solo parent ID?
The solo parent ID is an identification card issued by the government of the Philippines for single parents who are not married. It provides benefits to both the individual and their household in recognition of their circumstances.
The main purpose of this document is to help these individuals overcome difficulties in gaining access to certain services and facilities due to their status as single parents or guardians without a partner.
Also Read: List of DSWD Programs, Projects and Services
RA 8972 Solo Parents Welfare Act
RA 8972 was signed into law on November 7, 2000, and took effect on November 28, 2000. Its implementing rules and regulations (IRR) were approved in April 2022.
Benefits of a Solo Parent in the Philippines
According to RA 8972, single parents who have been employed by their companies for at least one year are entitled to an additional seven days of paid annual leave.
Additional leaves are non-cumulative and not convertible to cash. Employees who are sole parents may only take parental leave under the following conditions:
- Attend to personal milestones of their children (birthday, graduation, etc.)
- Perform parental obligations such as enrollment and attendance in school programs
- Attend to the medical, social, spiritual, and recreational needs of their children
- Other similar circumstances
Other benefits of working as a solo parent include flexibility in scheduling and the absence of workplace discrimination, which are common issues for single parents.
Single parents with income below the poverty threshold of NEDA can receive additional benefits, such as housing, medical assistance, and scholarships. These are among the many programs that help low-income families.
Also Read: How to Apply DSWD Solo Parent Assistance Cash Aid
Are You Qualified to Get a Solo Parent ID?
Solo Parent ID is a government identification for any single parent in the Philippines. Section 3 of Republic Act No. 8972 or the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act of 2000 classifies solo parents as:
1. A woman who gives birth as a result of rape and other crimes against chastity even without a final conviction of the offender: Provided, That the mother keeps and raises the child;
2. A parent left solo or alone with the responsibility of parenthood due to the following circumstances:
- Due to the death of a spouse
- The spouse is detained or is serving a sentence for a criminal conviction for at least one (1) year
- Physical and/or mental incapacity of spouse as certified by a public medical practitioner
- Legal separation or de facto separation from spouse for at least one (1) year, as long as he/she is entrusted with the custody of the children
- Declaration of nullity or annulment of marriage as decreed by a court or by a church as long as he/she is entrusted with the custody of the children
3. Unmarried mother/father who has preferred to keep and rear her/his child/children instead of having others care for them or give them up to a welfare institution.
4. Any other person who solely provides parental care and support to a child or children.
5. Any family member who assumes the responsibility of the head of the family as a result of the death, abandonment, disappearance, or prolonged absence of the parents or solo parent.
The benefits of a solo parent will stop if their status as per R.A. 8972 changes. These include when they no longer have custody of the kid or are no longer responsible for the child.
Similarly, if a single parent gets married or changes their status in marriage, then the solo parent’s eligibility and rights will be revoked.
What are the Requirements for Solo Parent ID?
Before applying for a Solo Parent ID card, make sure you have the following documents with you:
- Barangay Certificate – You can get a barangay certificate at your Barangay Hall. This certificate will prove that you have been a resident in your barangay for at least six months and to confirm your status as a single parent. Bring cash for the processing fee and a valid government-issued ID to prove your residential address.
- PSA Birth Certificate of your child/children – A PSA Birth Certificate can be obtained online or in person at any PSA office near you
- Proof of Financial Status – present an Income Tax Return (ITR) as proof of your financial status. You can get it through your company’s HR Department or through the BIR. Alternatively, you can obtain a certification stating your income from the municipal or barangay treasurer.
- Certification from Barangay Captain– Get this document from the Barangay Hall where you reside. The certificate must indicate your status as a solo parent.
- Application Form – The social welfare and development office in your city or province should have a copy of this form. Fill out the required information and attach a one 2×2 ID photo.
- Supporting Documents/Certificates – Submit the supporting documents such as a Declaration of Nullity of Marriage, Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR), death certificate of spouse, or medical certificate as proof of mental capacity if incapacitated, Jail Records/Certificate of Detention, or a VAWC Report in case of abandonment.
Procedure: How to Process Solo Parent ID from DSWD
Once you have all the necessary documentation, follow these easy steps to apply for a Solo Parent ID:
Step 1. Go to DSWD Office
Visit the nearest DSWD office or visit their website to learn how you can apply for a Solo Parent ID. Some LGUs offer an online application where you can upload your documents and schedule an assessment appointment from any internet-connected device. If your local government offers this option, check it out to save time and money.
Step 2. Submit the Required Documents
To have your application processed, you must submit all the required documents to a DSWD social worker. They will assess your circumstances and determine if you are eligible to receive a Solo Parent ID.
Step 3. Wait for the Result of the Evaluation
It will take approximately 30 days to complete the screening and review of your application.
Step 4. Claim your Solo Parent ID
After your application has been approved, you will be advised on how to claim your Solo Parent ID. You can obtain the ID at the DSWD office, where you submitted your application.
Video: Filipino Single Parent ID Basic Requirements and Benefits – Solo Parents Welfare Act RA 8972
Interested to know how to apply for a Solo Parent’s ID? Here are the basic requirements and benefits of this government-issued ID. Learn about this simple process and some tips on how to make it a smooth and quick process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the benefits of being a solo parent and the Solo Parent ID:
1. Is a Solo Parent ID accepted as a valid ID?
The Solo Parent ID is not accepted as a form of government identification by some banks and other institutions, because it is considered more of a privilege than an entitlement. But a Solo Parent ID card is accepted as a valid form of identification when applying for civil service exams and national ID cards.
2. How long must I wait before receiving my Solo Parent ID?
According to the DSWD, you may have to wait up to 30 days from the date of your submission if your application is not processed immediately.
3. What is the validity of the Solo Parent ID?
The ID card is valid for one year and provides its holder with benefits during that time period.
4. Can I Renew a Solo Parent ID?
You can renew your solo parent ID card at the DSWD office in your municipality or LGU office when it expires.
5. Is there a tax break for single parents?
No, single parents are not eligible for tax exemption. However, a valid Solo Parent ID entitles them to a 10% discount on basic necessities such as milk and medicines.
6. Is the Solo Parent ID only for working parents?
No, under the Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 8972), any working or unemployed parent who meets the requirements will be eligible for a Solo Parent ID Card.
7. Are single parents eligible for maternity leave?
Yes. It shall cover 105 days of paid maternity leave for live births, with an additional 15 days granted to single parents as stipulated by R.A. No 8972 and the possibility to extend this up to 30 extra without pay.
8. Who is the head of the family?
Any family member who assumes the responsibility of head of household as a result of one or both parents dying, abandoning their children, disappearing for an extended period of time or being away from home for other reasons.
Summary
In the Philippines, being a single parent is tough—especially in today’s economy. The benefits of the 2000 Solo Parents Welfare Act make it somewhat easier: solo parents are eligible for discounts on groceries and free tuition as well as housing assistance.
However, in order to get the benefits listed above, you must first obtain a Solo Parent ID from the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The process is simple and only takes a few minutes, so apply today!