THE MANAGEMENT GUIDELINE FOR INCREASING THE OLD AGE BENEFITS TO THE INSURED PERSONS IN THE SOCIAL SECURITY FUND IN THAILAND

Abstract

This research aims to study the conditions and challenges in the operations of the Social Security Fund in Thailand and to propose management guidelines for increasing old-age benefits for insured persons under the Social Security Fund. These guidelines should align with the cost of living and the essential needs of the insured persons. Additionally, the research presents recommendations for the Social Security Office regarding the maximum savings ceiling. This qualitative research employs the Delphi technique for data analysis, with 25 key informants involved in social security selected specifically for this study.

 The research findings indicate that: 1) The Social Security Fund should enhance old-age benefits for insured persons, with the primary reason being the variation in living costs depending on the residence of the insured persons. 2) The guidelines for increasing old-age benefits for insured persons should consider four key aspects: 2.1) Welfare should cover basic needs and contribute to improving the quality of life in a fair manner. 2.2) The state should be the provider of welfare. 2.3) The elderly should live with dignity and safety. 2.4) Allowances for the elderly should be increased equally across all age groups. Other benefits should not be increased at this time, as the current maximum contribution of 15,000 baht is considered low and was only recently increased following the 2022 Ministry of Labor regulations. 3) It is recommended that the maximum contribution ceiling be raised from 15,000 baht to 30,000 baht, incrementally, every 3 to 5 years. Furthermore, in the event of an increase in the maximum ceiling, companies should be given at least one year's notice to allow employers to budget accordingly. This research provides valuable insights for the government to formulate policies on elderly benefits and serves as crucial data for recalculating and adjusting the maximum contribution ceiling to reflect current needs.