PATTAYA, Thailand – The government has expanded benefits for over 500,000 insured persons under Section 40 of the Social Security system. These enhancements aim to improve income security and quality of life for informal and self-employed workers, without raising contribution rates.
Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office Airin Phanrit stated that these enhanced benefits result from amendments to the Royal Decree on contribution rates, benefit types, and eligibility criteria for Section 40 insured persons (No. 5) B.E. 2568, effective October 2025. As a result, over 500,000 insured persons have received additional benefits.
To strengthen social protection, the government, through the Social Security Office under the Ministry of Labour, has increased several benefits for Section 40 insured persons. Outpatient medical visit compensation has increased from 50 baht per visit to 200 baht per visit, with coverage remaining at up to three visits per year for all options.
The minimum physician-ordered rest period for outpatient treatment has been reduced from three days to one day. Maximum coverage is 30 days per year for Options 1 and 2, and 90 days per year for Option 3.
Disability compensation has also been significantly enhanced. For Options 1 and 2, monthly income compensation has increased from 500–1,000 baht for 15 years to 1,000–2,000 baht for lifetime coverage. For Option 3, benefits have increased from 500–1,000 baht per month to 1,500–3,000 baht per month, with lifetime protection.
Child allowance benefits under Option 3 have increased from 200 baht to 300 baht per child per month. The eligible age has been extended to 7 years for up to 2 children.
In addition, death-related benefits have been revised. Funeral assistance for Options 1 and 2 has increased from 20,000 baht to 25,000 baht. Death compensation for insured persons who have contributed for at least 60 months has risen from 3,000 baht to 8,000 baht. Provisions have also been updated to ensure fair distribution of old-age lump-sum benefits if an insured person passes away before age 60. (NNT)
