Stepchild Entitled To 60% Of SSNIT Contributions If Proven Biological – NPRA Reveals

The Assistant Manager for Corporate Affairs at the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) in the Western Region, Mr. Seth Sackey, has disclosed that a stepchild not listed as a SSNIT beneficiary could still be entitled to 60% of a deceased contributor’s benefits—if proven to be the biological child of the deceased.
“I want to advise all women: if your husband has a child outside the marriage, encourage him to add the child to his SSNIT beneficiary list and assign a percentage. If the man passes away and the child later appears and is confirmed to be his biological child, SSNIT will allocate 60% of the benefits to that child,” Mr. Sackey explained.
He noted that this policy is in line with SSNIT’s core objective of safeguarding the welfare of all biological children of contributors. “We aim to ensure that the child’s education, healthcare, shelter, and overall well-being are protected.”
Mr. Sackey also highlighted the importance of using correct and official names for SSNIT records. “Some of you use names that do not match those on the Ghana Card, or you list relatives under unofficial names. This leads to delays in accessing benefits. Always ensure that the names on SSNIT documents match official identification.”
Speaking at the same event, NPRA Zonal Manager Mr. Herbert Hans urged the public to take pension planning seriously and not rely solely on their children for financial support in old age.
“The era when children could automatically support their aged parents is gradually fading. Today’s children have many responsibilities and life goals. Parents must take personal responsibility for their retirement,” he said. “Pensions are key to avoiding old-age poverty and dependency.”
Mr. Hans encouraged Ghanaians to regularly update their pension records and called on the media to support public education efforts, especially around the Tier 3 pension scheme.
These remarks were made during an NPRA outreach program held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Asankragwa, the capital of Wassa Amenfi West. The program was organized to educate informal sector workers on the benefits and procedures of the Tier 3 pension scheme.
The event recorded a high turnout, attracting participants from diverse trades such as hairdressing, fashion design, mechanics, plumbing, electrical work, masonry, and trading.
Licensed trustees were present to assist and register interested individuals after the session.
As part of its compliance and monitoring responsibilities, the NPRA also visited several formal sector organizations to deliver letters requesting evidence of pension contribution payments for employees. This initiative is in accordance with Section 27 of the National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766), which authorizes the Authority to conduct inspections to ensure compliance with pension regulations.
Credit: Kofi Mensah Abrampa (KMA)