The Cabinet approved the draft Social Security Act, a major overhaul of benefits, extending the age limit for insured persons to 65 to support an aging society. After leaving work, child welfare benefits will be extended for another six months.
On 3 Nov 2026 GMT+7, Second Lieutenant Phatdarasmi Thongsaluaykorn, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced the Cabinet meeting outcome that approved the draft Social Security Act (No. ..) B.E. .... as proposed by the Ministry of Labor. The law update aims to align with current circumstances, support an aging society, and enhance comprehensive protection for insured persons. The current Social Security Act B.E. 2533 (1990) has been in effect for a long time, with some provisions no longer suitable or aligned with present conditions.
The draft expands the age limit and benefits for insured persons by raising the maximum age for employees insured under Section 33 from 60 to no more than 65 years to accommodate older workers. It also extends child welfare benefits for six months after leaving employment. Additionally, maternity leave benefits are increased to align with labor protection laws, and income replacement for non-work-related disability is raised from 50% to up to 70% of wages.
Moreover, insured persons who have contributed for at least 180 months may choose to receive old-age pension or lump-sum benefits at age 55 or upon termination of insured status. Those with at least 60 months of contributions can request partial old-age benefits before 55 in cases of severe disasters affecting their livelihood or use part of their old-age benefits as loan collateral with financial institutions that have agreements with the Social Security Office. The loan amount cannot exceed 30% of old-age benefits and twice the highest wage base.
Second Lieutenant Phatdarasmi added that the draft also allows old-age pensioners who have left work but still want coverage (such as medical benefits) to continue as insured persons, with the government contributing one-third and the insured two-thirds (covering illness, disability, and death). It also revises penalties for employers who do not comply with the law (e.g., failure to submit reports on time), changing from criminal penalties to fines under the 2022 Administrative Fines Act to ensure appropriateness and fairness.
The Cabinet acknowledged the plan to draft 18 subordinate laws that must be completed within 60 days after this law comes into effect. The next step is to submit the draft act to the Parliamentary Coordination Committee for consideration before presenting it to the House of Representatives.