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Every employer in Nepal — whether you have 1 employee or 1,000 — must register with the Social Security Fund (SSF). With nearly 1 million registered contributors and 18,500+ employers already enrolled, SSF is no longer optional. The Contribution Based Social Security Act 2074 (2017) mandates a 31% monthly contribution split between employer (20%) and employee (11%), covering medical treatment, maternity, accidents, disability, survivor benefits, and old-age pension.
Yet many employers still risk fines up to NRS 1,00,000 — or even imprisonment — by ignoring SSF registration. And thousands of employees have never logged into the SSF online portal to check their contributions. This guide covers everything: registration for both employers and employees, how to login and check your balance, the 4 protection schemes, contribution calculations, the claim process, and how SSF compares to the old EPF system.
SSF Nepal (Social Security Fund) is a mandatory social security system under the Social Security Act 2074. Employers contribute 20% and employees contribute 11% of basic salary — totalling 31%. It covers medical, maternity, accident, disability, dependent family, and old-age pension benefits. Register online at ssf.gov.np. Login to check contributions at sosys.ssf.gov.np.
Over 9 years helping couples navigate Nepal's legal system — since 2016. SSF registration is often required when processing employment documents for court marriage registration in Nepal. Our lawyers can guide you through legal documentation. Talk to a lawyer today →
What Is the Social Security Fund (SSF) in Nepal?
The Social Security Fund — known in Nepali as Samajik Suraksha Kosh (सामाजिक सुरक्षा कोष) — is Nepal's mandatory social security system for workers. Established in 2011 (7 Chaitra 2067 BS) and governed by the Social Security Act 2074, SSF operates under the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS).
SSF replaces the fragmented approach of separate provident funds and gratuity schemes with one comprehensive system. A 13-member tripartite board — representing the government, employers, and trade unions — manages the fund from its headquarters in Babarmahal, Kathmandu.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Social Security Fund (SSF) / सामाजिक सुरक्षा कोष |
| Governing Law | Contribution Based Social Security Act 2074 (2017) |
| Parent Ministry | Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security |
| Registered Employers | 18,500+ (as of 2026) |
| Registered Contributors | Nearly 1 million |
| Website | ssf.gov.np |
| Online Portal | sosys.ssf.gov.np |
Who Must Register for SSF in Nepal?
SSF registration is not limited to large companies. The law applies to every business regardless of size — even if you employ just one person.
Mandatory Registration
- All business enterprises — private companies, partnerships, sole proprietorships
- All employee types — full-time, part-time, contract, and time-bound workers
- NGOs and INGOs operating in Nepal
- Educational institutions with paid staff
- Foreign nationals employed in Nepal
- New government employees — from FY 2082/83 (2025/26), newly appointed civil servants enroll in SSF instead of the traditional pension system
Exemptions
- Military and armed forces
- Existing civil service employees (those appointed before FY 2082/83)
- Independent consultants (though they can join voluntarily)
Key Rule: Employees cannot opt out of SSF. Employers must register each employee within 3 months of their appointment date. Failure to comply triggers fines, interest penalties, and potential imprisonment.
SSF Contribution Rates: The 31% Breakdown
The total SSF contribution is 31% of basic salary — split 20% from the employer and 11% from the employee. Here is the detailed breakdown:
| Component | Employee | Employer | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provident / Pension Fund | 10% | 10% | 20% |
| Gratuity | — | 8.33% | 8.33% |
| Social Security Tax | 1% | — | 1% |
| Additional (Medical Insurance) | — | 1.67% | 1.67% |
| Total | 11% | 20% | 31% |
Contribution Calculation Examples
| Basic Salary | Employee (11%) | Employer (20%) | Total Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRS 15,000 | NRS 1,650 | NRS 3,000 | NRS 4,650 |
| NRS 30,000 | NRS 3,300 | NRS 6,000 | NRS 9,300 |
| NRS 50,000 (ceiling) | NRS 5,500 | NRS 10,000 | NRS 15,500 |
Deposit deadline: Employers must deposit contributions within 25 days after the end of each month (extended from 15 days by the July 2025 amendment). Late deposits attract 10% interest on the overdue amount.
Tax benefit: SSF contributions are tax-deductible up to NRS 5,00,000 or one-third of employment income, whichever is lower. Understanding this deduction matters when calculating your income tax in Nepal.
The 4 SSF Protection Schemes Explained
The Social Security Act 2074 envisions coverage across medical treatment, sickness, maternity, accident, disability, dependent family, old-age, and unemployment. SSF currently operates 4 main schemes that bundle these into comprehensive coverage:
Scheme 1: Medical Treatment, Health and Maternity
This scheme covers hospitalization, outpatient treatment, sickness leave, and maternity benefits. Eligibility begins after 3 consecutive months of contribution.
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Hospitalization (IPD) | Up to NRS 80,000 per year |
| Outpatient (OPD) | Up to NRS 20,000 per year |
| Total annual medical | Up to NRS 1,00,000 |
| Co-payment | 20% borne by contributor |
| Sickness benefit | 100% wages for up to 12 days per year |
| Maternity paid leave | 60 days full pay + 60% of basic for 38 more days |
| Newborn care | 1 month's minimum wage per baby |
Maternity benefits require 12 months of contribution within an 18-month period. Claims are processed within 30 days of submission.
Scheme 2: Accident and Disability Protection
Coverage begins immediately from the enrollment date — no waiting period. This is the only scheme with instant eligibility.
- Work-related accidents at listed hospitals: 100% treatment costs covered
- Work-related accidents at other hospitals: Up to NRS 7,00,000
- Non-work accidents: Up to NRS 7,00,000
- Temporary disability: 60% of basic remuneration
- Permanent disability: 60% of last basic salary as lifetime pension
Accidents must be reported to SSF within 7 days.
Scheme 3: Dependent Family Protection
If a contributing employee passes away, their family receives:
- Spouse pension: 60% of the contributor's final basic salary (lifetime, forfeited on remarriage)
- Children's scholarship: 40% of basic salary for up to 2 children until age 18
- Funeral expenses: NRS 25,000 lump sum
- Accumulated fund: Total contributions plus investment returns distributed to heirs
Scheme 4: Old-Age Protection (Pension)
The pension scheme is where most of the 31% contribution goes — 28.33% of basic salary is allocated here.
| Condition | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Retirement age | 60 years |
| Minimum for pension | 180 months (15 years) of contributions |
| Monthly pension formula | (Total contributions + investment returns) ÷ 180 |
| Less than 15 years | Lump sum of total contributions + returns |
| Tax on disbursement | 5% |
How to Register as an Employer on SSF
Employer registration is fully online and free. The process takes 2–10 working days depending on document verification.
Required Documents
- Company Registration Certificate (from OCR)
- PAN or VAT Certificate (from IRD)
- Tax Clearance Certificate
- Business profile and contact details
- Employee roster with salary and citizenship details
- Shareholder details and employee appointment letters
Step-by-Step Registration
- Visit the SSF portal at ssf.gov.np
- Select "Employer Registration"
- Enter company details — PAN/VAT number, business type, contact information
- Upload all required documents
- Submit the online registration form
- SSF verifies the application (2–10 working days)
- Receive your Employer Registration Number (ERN) and login credentials via email
How to Register Employees on SSF
Once the employer is registered, they must add each employee through the SSF portal. Employees do not register themselves — the employer handles it.
- Employer logs into the SSF portal with ERN credentials
- Selects "Add Employee" option
- Enters employee details: name, date of birth, citizenship number, basic salary, bank account
- Uploads employee documents — citizenship certificate, passport photo, PAN card
- Employee receives a unique Social Security Identification Number (SSID)
- Employer generates monthly Electronic Contribution Vouchers (ECVs) to deposit contributions
Portability: Your SSID stays the same even when you change jobs. When you move to a new employer, they simply add you using your existing SSID. Your contribution history and benefits carry over.
SSF Login: How to Access the Online Portal
Both employers and employees can access the SSF system online. The portal URL is sosys.ssf.gov.np.
SSF Login for Employees (Contributors)
- Go to sosys.ssf.gov.np
- Select "Contributor" as login type
- Enter your SSF Number (SSID)
- Enter your username and password (sent to your email upon registration)
- Click "Login"
SSF Login for Employers
- Go to sosys.ssf.gov.np
- Select "Employer" as login type
- Enter your Employer Registration Number (ERN)
- Enter username and password
- Click "Login"
What You Can Do After Login
| Feature | Employee Portal | Employer Portal |
|---|---|---|
| View contributions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Download statements | ✓ | ✓ |
| Submit claims | ✓ | — |
| Update KYC | ✓ | — |
| Register employees | — | ✓ |
| Generate ECVs | — | ✓ |
| View tax statements | ✓ | ✓ |
You can also check contributions via the SSF Nepal mobile app (available on Google Play and App Store) or by sending "SSF" to 41042 from your registered mobile number.
How to File an SSF Claim
When you need to use your SSF benefits — medical treatment, maternity, accident, or pension — you file a claim through the online portal or at the nearest SSF office.
General Claim Process
- Login to the SSF portal at sosys.ssf.gov.np
- Select the type of claim (medical, accident, maternity, disability, dependent, old-age)
- Fill out the online claim form
- Upload required documents (medical reports, bills, certificates)
- Submit the claim
- SSF verifies documents (15–30 working days)
- Payment disbursed to your registered bank account
Documents Required by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Required Documents | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Medical bills, doctor's prescription, hospital records | 15 working days |
| Maternity | Pregnancy confirmation, hospital records (12 months contribution required) | 30 days |
| Accident | Accident report (within 7 days), medical records, police report if applicable | 30 days |
| Disability | Medical board assessment, disability certification | Board approval required |
| Old-Age Pension | Age proof (60 years), contribution history, retirement documentation | 30 days |
| Dependent Family | Death certificate, marriage certificate, birth certificates, heir documentation | 30 days |
SSF vs EPF: What Changed?
Many employees who started working before SSF was mandatory remember the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). Here is how the two systems compare:
| Feature | SSF | EPF |
|---|---|---|
| Established | 2011 (Act 2074) | 1962 (EPF Act 2019 BS) |
| Total Contribution | 31% (11% + 20%) | 20% (10% + 10%) |
| Coverage | Medical, maternity, accident, disability, pension, survivor | Retirement savings only |
| Withdrawal | Pension at 60 (15+ years) or lump sum | Lump sum after retirement |
| Mandatory For | All private sector + new government employees | Being phased into SSF |
| Current Status | Active, expanding | Co-exists until full transition |
Verdict: SSF offers far broader coverage than EPF — medical, accident, maternity, and survivor benefits on top of pension. The higher contribution rate (31% vs 20%) reflects this expanded coverage. EPF is gradually being absorbed into the SSF system.
Penalties for SSF Non-Compliance
The July 2025 amendment significantly strengthened enforcement. Employers who ignore SSF registration face serious consequences:
- Fine up to NRS 1,00,000 or imprisonment up to 1 year (or both) for non-compliance
- 10% interest on late contribution deposits
- NRS 5,00,000 fine for false reporting
- Account freezes and property seizures — expanded by the 2025 amendment
- License cancellations and passport freezes
- Business registration renewal blocked without SSF compliance proof
Under the new Section 9(6), if an employer fails to deposit contributions on time and an employee suffers an accident or death during that period, the employer must pay benefits equivalent to what SSF would have covered. This makes compliance not just a legal requirement but a financial risk management issue.
SSF for Self-Employed and Informal Workers
Self-employed individuals, freelancers, small business owners, and domestic workers can join SSF voluntarily. The contribution rate for the informal sector is 9.37% from the worker, matched by a 9.37% government contribution.
To register as a self-employed contributor, visit the SSF website and select "Self-Employed Registration." You will need your citizenship certificate, PAN card, and income details. Contributions can be made quarterly or annually.
Voluntary contributors access the same protection schemes as formal sector workers — medical, accident, maternity, and old-age pension benefits.
Conclusion: Get SSF Compliant Now
SSF is mandatory for every employer in Nepal — no exceptions based on company size. With fines up to NRS 1,00,000, potential imprisonment, and the 2025 amendment's expanded enforcement powers, non-compliance carries real risk. For employees, your SSID is your gateway to medical coverage, maternity benefits, accident protection, and a pension at retirement.
Register at ssf.gov.np, login to check your contributions at sosys.ssf.gov.np, and file claims promptly when needed. If you need legal assistance with employment documentation, court marriage in Nepal, or any labour law matters, contact our team for confidential support.
Frequently Asked Questions
SSF (Social Security Fund) is Nepal's mandatory social security system under the Social Security Act 2074. It requires 31% monthly contribution (11% employee + 20% employer) and covers medical, maternity, accident, disability, survivor, and old-age pension benefits.
The total SSF contribution is 31% of basic salary:
- Employee: 11% (10% pension + 1% social security tax)
- Employer: 20% (10% pension + 8.33% gratuity + 1.67% medical)
Visit sosys.ssf.gov.np, select "Contributor" or "Employer" login type, enter your SSID or ERN, then your username and password. Credentials are sent to your registered email upon registration.
Yes. Every employer in Nepal must register with SSF regardless of company size — even businesses with just one employee. This applies to private companies, NGOs, educational institutions, and from FY 2082/83, newly appointed government employees.
Employers need these documents:
- Company Registration Certificate
- PAN or VAT Certificate
- Tax Clearance Certificate
- Business profile and contact details
- Employee roster with salary and citizenship details
- Employee appointment letters
Three methods:
- Web portal: Login at sosys.ssf.gov.np → view contribution details
- SMS: Send "SSF" to 41042 from your registered mobile
- Mobile app: Download SSF Nepal app and login with your credentials
Non-compliant employers face fines up to NRS 1,00,000, imprisonment up to 1 year, 10% interest on late deposits, account freezes, property seizures, and license cancellation. Business registration renewal is also blocked without SSF compliance proof.
SSF provides four main schemes:
- Medical: Up to NRS 1,00,000/year for treatment
- Accident: Up to NRS 7,00,000 coverage + disability pension
- Dependent family: 60% survivor pension for spouse
- Old-age: Monthly pension after 15 years of contribution
SSF covers medical, maternity, accident, disability, pension, and survivor benefits at 31% contribution. EPF covered retirement savings only at 20%. EPF is being phased into SSF — new private sector employees enroll in SSF, not EPF.
Yes, voluntarily. Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and informal sector workers contribute 9.37% of income, matched by 9.37% from the government. Register at ssf.gov.np under "Self-Employed Registration" with citizenship and PAN card.
SSF employer registration takes 2 to 10 working days after online submission. The process is entirely online at ssf.gov.np and free of charge. You receive your Employer Registration Number (ERN) via email upon approval.
Employers must deposit SSF contributions within 25 days after the end of each month. This deadline was extended from 15 days by the July 2025 amendment. Late deposits attract 10% interest on the overdue amount.
SSF provides 60 days of full-pay maternity leave plus 60% of basic salary for an additional 38 days (up to 98 days total). It also covers pregnancy tests, hospitalization, child treatment for 3 months, and one month's minimum wage per newborn.
Your SSID (Social Security Identification Number) stays the same across all employers. When you join a new company, they register you using your existing SSID. All contribution history and benefits carry over — full portability.
Login at sosys.ssf.gov.np, select "Medical Claim," upload medical bills, doctor's prescription, and hospital records, then submit. SSF processes medical claims within 15 working days. Contributors bear a 20% co-payment on all medical expenses.
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