Labour Minister Trinuch Thianthong updated that the benefits for social security insured persons under Section 40, who are self-employed, have been improved to be more comprehensive and aligned with current living costs.
On 22 Jan, Ms. Trinuch Thianthong, Minister of Labour, stated that the Ministry of Labour has continuously promoted improvements to the benefits for Section 40 insured persons. Recently, the Royal Decree on the criteria and rates for contribution payments and types of compensation benefits, as well as the conditions for entitlement to such benefits for those who register as insured persons (No. 5) B.E. 2568 (2025), was published in the Royal Gazette on 31 Dec 2025 and came into effect the day after publication. This is good news for self-employed insured persons nationwide, as the benefits have been enhanced to cover more and better correspond to the current cost of living.
Key benefit improvements for Section 40 insured persons include increased compensation in cases of illness or accidents. For inpatient treatment, insured persons will receive 300 baht per day. If a doctor prescribes rest without hospitalization, they will receive 200 baht per day. For outpatient treatment with a medical certificate, payment is 200 baht per visit. Coverage also extends to dangerous communicable diseases, including COVID-19, when treated according to the Ministry of Public Health guidelines or government measures. Disability monthly compensation has been raised, considering contribution period and chosen options, with a maximum of 3,000 baht per month to help insured persons maintain a suitable living standard amid current economic conditions.
Ms. Kanjana Poolkaew, Secretary-General of the Social Security Office (SSO), said the benefits improvements also include extending the child allowance payment period until the child reaches age 7, at a flat rate of 300 baht per month per child, up to two children, easing the financial burden on insured families. Furthermore, if an insured person dies before reaching age 60 or before receiving old-age benefits, the old-age gratuity will be paid to a designated beneficiary named by the insured. If no beneficiary is named, the gratuity will be equally divided among the spouse, parents, or children. Additionally, insured persons who contracted COVID-19 and received treatment from 26 Mar 2020 to 30 Sep 2022 under Ministry of Public Health guidelines or government measures, with a medical certificate requiring at least 3 days of rest, are also covered. These benefit improvements reflect the Social Security Office’s commitment to elevating social protection for self-employed workers, aiming to create lasting security and quality of life.