“Cabinet In-the-Field” Approves New Social Security Bill, Extending Section 33 Age Limit to 65 and Enhancing Benefits to Support the Aging Society

Today (3 November 2026) at 11:45 AM at Monthathip Hall International Convention Center, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani Province, Capt. Phatdaras Thongsaluaykorn, R.N., Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced the outcomes of the Mobile Cabinet Meeting in Udon Thani Province. The Cabinet approved in principle the draft Social Security Act (No. ..), B.E. ...., as proposed by the Ministry of Labour, aiming to update the law to align with the current context, support an aging society, and comprehensively expand coverage for insured persons, as the current Social Security Act B.E. 2533 (1990) has been in force for a long time and contains certain provisions that are no longer suitable for present circumstances.

The draft bill extends the age limit for insured persons and enhances benefits by raising the upper age limit for Section 33 employee-insured persons from 60 to not exceeding 65 years of age to support older workers. It also extends child allowance benefits for an additional 6 months after leaving employment, increases maternity leave compensation in line with labor protection law, and raises income compensation for non-work-related disability from 50% to up to 70% of wages.

Furthermore, insured persons who have contributed for 180 months can choose between an old-age pension or a lump-sum payment upon reaching 55 years of age or when their insured status terminates. Insured persons with at least 60 months of contributions can request an early partial old-age fund withdrawal before turning 55 in the event of severe disasters affecting their livelihood, or use a portion of their old-age savings as collateral for loans with financial institutions partnered with the Social Security Office, capped at 30% of their accumulated old-age fund and no more than twice the maximum wage base.

Capt. Phatdaras added that the draft bill allows retirees receiving an old-age pension who leave their jobs but still desire coverage (such as healthcare rights) to apply to remain insured persons, with the government contributing 1 part and the insured person contributing 2 parts (covering illness, disability, and death). Additionally, statutory penalties for non-compliant employers (such as failure to submit required forms on time) will be changed from criminal penalties to administrative fines under the Act on Administrative Fines, B.E. 2565 (2022), ensuring greater fairness and appropriateness.

The Cabinet also acknowledged the legislative plan for 18 subordinate laws, which must be executed within 60 days after the act takes effect. Following this, the draft bill will be submitted to the House of Representatives Coordinating Committee for review before being presented to the House of Representatives.

Photo : Yanawut Samphaothong