What You Need to Know About NSSF in Uganda 

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is an agency mandated by the government of Uganda through the National Social Security Act, Cap 222, to offer high-quality social security services to public and private sector employees in Uganda. The NSSF was established by the NSSF ACT in 1985 and has its headquarters at the 14th Floor Workers House, Kampala, Uganda. 

Over the years, the NSSF has undergone several restructuring processes to make it more efficient and responsive to the basic needs of its contributors. Here is everything you need to know about NSSF and how it works in Uganda.

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How Do I Check My NSSF Account? 

Gone are the days when someone had to visit NSSF offices to check their NSSF account and access other services. Thanks to technological advancements, NSSF members can now access their NSSF accounts using computers or mobile phones. The following are the different channels you can use to check your NSSF account:

1. NSSFGo App 

This app is undoubtedly one of the easiest and most convenient ways to check your NSSF account in Uganda. By downloading the NSSFGo app, you'll be able to check your account balance.

You can also confirm your salary growth rate, make voluntary contributions, see your employment history, get e-statements, claim your NSSF benefits, and glimpse your retirement payout. 

The app also lets you become an NSSF member if you're not one. The application is available to Android and iOS users.

2. NSSF website app

You can also check your NSSF account without downloading the application. Instead, visit the NSSF official website application using your mobile phone or computer and access all the NSSF services you need. To gain access to your NSSF account, must provide a registered phone number and an available email address. 

3. SMS

If you don't have access to an internet connection, you can still check your NSSF account using a feature phone or mobile phone by sending a text message to 6773. This service allows you to access the following services:

• Get a mini statement by sending MINI to 6773
• Confirm your NSSF account balance by sending BAL to 6773
• Check your benefits claim status by sending CLAIM to 6773 

4. USSD code 

You can also access NSSF services on your phone using a USSD code. The best thing about this channel is that it works on all kinds of phones. Follow these steps to register for an NSSF account using the USSD option:

• Dial *254# and choose your preferred language. 
• Tap on 'Register Member' and then proceed to provide your details. 
• Enter your National Identification Number. 
• You'll receive a text message with your NSSF number. 

5. Toll-free number 

Finally, if you have any inquiries or requests concerning your NSSF account, you can speak to an NSSF customer care agent via 0800286773, a toll-free number. You can also text or call an NSSF representative via WhatsApp on 0784259713. 

When Can I Access My NSSF Money? 

Following the NSSF amendment Act signed into law by the President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, NSSF members can access their money earlier than before. The following are the different circumstances under which you can access your NSSF money in Uganda:

• If you're an expatriate or a Ugandan who has decided to leave Uganda, the fund is well accessible.
• If you get a job that provides another social security scheme alternative, that is exempted from contributing to the NSSF fund. This includes the army, civil service, and police.
• You can also access your NSSF money at 50 if you've been unemployed for at least a year. 

The Midterm Access

A member who has made contributions to the Fund may access his or her benefits accrued from those contributions at any time under the following regulations:

• Is 45 years of age or older and has contributed to the Fund under Section 7 of the Act for at least ten years, is eligible for midterm access benefits in an amount not exceeding 20% of his or her accrued benefits.
• Is forty years of age or older; and has contributed to the fund under Section 7 of the Act for at least ten years, is eligible for midterm access to a sum equal to half of their accrued benefits.
• Is a person with disability.

How Do I Access My NSSF Account Online? 

If you'd prefer to access your NSSF account online, there are several channels you can use. You can opt to download the NSSFGo app on your Android or iOS device, or visit the NSSF corporate website. 

How Do I Claim NSSF Benefits in Uganda? 

When claiming payment of benefits in Uganda, you can either do it online or visit one of the local NSSF offices. At the NSSF office, you'll be required to fill out a form with all your details and then wait for the agency's response. 

On the other hand, you can follow these steps to claim your NSSF benefits online:

• Download the NSSFGo app on your preferred device or visit the NSSF web app 
• Scroll down to the Benefits section and then select 'Benefits Application.'
• Fill out all the fields with all the relevant details, including benefit type, your preferred payment method, bank account, employment status, and your address. You should also submit other supporting documents. 
• Once you've submitted all your details, you'll be able to track your benefits claim in real-time until you receive the payment. 

How Much Can I Withdraw From My NSSF Account? 

According to the new law, you can withdraw up to 20% of your NSSF contribution once you reach 45 years old. Once you attain the age of 55, you're allowed to withdraw your NSSF money in bits rather than a lump sum. The remaining balance then continues to receive annual interest with the addition to the interest rate announced every financial year. 

What Is the NSSF's Retirement Age? 

The NSSF Uganda retirement age is 55 years. However, NSSF members can opt to receive their payments if they reach the age of 50 and have already retired from regular employment. 

What Is the Maximum I Can Withdraw From My NSSF Account in Uganda? 

If you're over 55 years, the maximum amount of money you can withdraw from your NSSF account at a go is 50% of the accrued benefits. After that, you'll only be allowed to withdraw your NSSF money in instalments of 10% or 5% at any particular time until all accrued benefits are depleted. 

Does NSSF Offer Free Banking? 

NSSF offers free banking. Ugandans can enrol in an NSSF voluntary membership plan to make a monthly payment of contributions to the fund based on their income and life aspirations.

The NSSF fund allows such members to change the amount they wish to contribute. It is an efficient and reliable form of free banking for savers who want a secure retirement plan for themselves and their families. 

Additionally, NSSF partners with the Bank of Uganda every year to offer financial literacy lessons to NSSF members who have received their savings. This financial literacy campaign intends to bridge Uganda's economic and investment gaps. 

Benefits for NSSF Members

The NSSF fund in Uganda offers various benefits to its members. These benefits include;

• The pension benefit. It is available to those who have attained age 55 and have been steadily contributing to the fund.
• The withdrawal benefit. It is open to members who have reached 50 but have already retired from regular employment.
• Survivor benefit. It is payable to surviving spouses, dependents, or relatives of the NSSF member.
• The invalidity benefit. This benefit is payable to NSSF members who have developed a temporary or permanent disability that bars them from working. 
• Emigration benefit. This benefit is payable to foreigners and Ugandans permanently leaving the country. 

What Is the Minimum Age to Access NSSF Benefits?

The minimum age to access NSSF benefits is 45 years old, provided that you've been saving with the NSSF fund for at least ten years. 

What Is the NSSF Account Balance?

The NSSF account balance refers to the amount of money you've contributed to the NSSF fund since you started working. 

Summing Up 

Enrolling in NSSF is a great way to secure your future and family. Even if you're self-employed, you can start making monthly contributions towards the pension scheme for your future for as little as UGX 5,000.