Summary: Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a draft amendment to the Social Security Act, proposing to raise the maximum insured age under Section 33 from 60 to 65, extend childcare benefits for six months after employment ends, and expand financial protection for workers and families.

 

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Thai government deputy spokesperson Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn said on November 3 that the proposed amendment aims to strengthen financial security for workers and their families. Under the draft, income support during maternity leave would be increased, while compensation for work-related disabilities would rise from 50% to a maximum of 70% of wages.

 

 

Regarding retirement benefits, the amendment proposes allowing insured individuals who have contributed to the social security system for at least 180 months to choose between a monthly pension and a lump-sum retirement payment, subject to eligibility requirements. Those with at least 60 months of contributions could access part of their retirement benefits early in the event of a major disaster or use a limited amount as loan collateral. Pension recipients would also be allowed to voluntarily continue their social security contributions to retain coverage for sickness, disability and death benefits.

 

The draft also proposes replacing criminal penalties for certain employer violations with administrative fines. The government plans to introduce 18 supporting regulations within 60 days after the amendment takes effect.

 

The proposed legislation must undergo further review before being submitted to Parliament. The reforms have not yet taken effect.