5 cases of suspension of the enhanced social security pension in Saudi Arabia

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has definitively clarified the circumstances under which social security payments will be suspended, as part of its ongoing efforts to regulate support operations and ensure that benefits reach those who are truly entitled to them. This announcement serves as a reminder to beneficiaries of the necessity to adhere to the regulations and standards stipulated in the updated social security system.

Context of the shift towards enhanced social security

These cases are identified based on Article 17 of the Social Security Law, a system that has undergone a radical transformation in recent years to align with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Social security is no longer merely a traditional financial safety net, but has evolved into an empowerment system aimed at transitioning beneficiaries from a state of dependency to one of productivity. The Ministry's new strategy focuses on supporting the most vulnerable groups while encouraging those capable of working to enter the labor market, thereby enhancing the economic and social stability of Saudi families.

The five cases of pension suspension

The ministry identified five main cases that directly lead to the suspension of financial support, which are:

• Failure to comply with the rehabilitation plan: If it is proven that the eligible beneficiary has failed to comply with the plan set for him to enable him to work.
• Incorrect data: If the ministry finds that the data submitted about the independent person or the family is incorrect or forged.
• Loss of eligibility conditions: If one of the basic eligibility conditions is no longer met (such as exceeding the income threshold or a change in marital status).
• Data update delay: If the beneficiary delays updating their required personal data for a period exceeding 30 days from the date of notification.
• Lack of seriousness in job searching: If it is proven that the beneficiary who is able to work is not looking for a job, or has not applied to approved employment platforms (such as Jadarat), or has refused suitable job and training offers.

The importance and impact of these measures

These controls are of paramount importance on both the social and economic levels; they ensure fairness in the distribution of state financial resources and prevent financial waste resulting from disbursing funds to those not entitled to them. Furthermore, linking support to a serious job search contributes to reducing unemployment rates and increasing the efficiency of the national workforce.

Mechanism for objection and rectification of situations

In its commitment to safeguarding beneficiaries' rights, the Ministry has provided an electronic mechanism for submitting appeals through the Social Support and Protection Platform in cases of pension suspension or eligibility rejection. Beneficiaries can submit an appeal, supported by documentation, within 30 days of the date the result is announced. The Ministry also emphasized the importance of using active bank accounts and updating residential data through documented lease agreements or property deeds to avoid payment delays.