SOCSO (Social Security Organisation / PERKESO) provides injury, disability and loss-of-employment protection for Malaysian employees. Yet many workers do not know what they are covered for or how to claim. Here is the complete guide to SOCSO benefits in 2026.
SOCSO Coverage: Two Schemes
| Scheme | Coverage | Employee Rate | Employer Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Injury Insurance | Work accidents, occupational disease | 0% | 1.25% of wages |
| Invalidity Pension | Disability from any cause | 0.5% | 0.5% |
| Employment Insurance (EIS) | Retrenchment income support | 0.2% | 0.2% |
SOCSO Employment Injury Benefits
If injured at work: Medical treatment: All medical costs covered at SOCSO panel clinics and hospitals. Temporary Disability Benefit (TDB): 80% of daily wage while unable to work. Permanent Disability Benefit: Lump sum or pension based on degree of disability. Death Benefit: Monthly pension to dependants.
Employment Insurance System (EIS)
EIS provides income support for retrenched employees: 60% of last salary for first month, stepping down over 6 months. Administered by SOCSO through the EIS portal (eismy.perkeso.gov.my). Must register as job seeker and apply within 60 days of retrenchment.
SOCSO for Self-Employed (Optional)
Since 2017, self-employed workers (gig workers, freelancers) can voluntarily contribute to SOCSO under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme. Monthly premium from RM12.55 (lowest income bracket). Provides employment injury coverage โ particularly valuable for manual workers, delivery riders, and construction workers.
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