The Social Security Board (SSB) has announced that a Penalty Amnesty Programme will come into effect on July 1, 2026, to give eligible contributors an opportunity to settle outstanding Social Security and National Health Insurance (NHI) contributions while benefitting from waived surcharges and penalties. Photo: VINO/File

Managing Director of the Social Security Board, Ms Lorie A. Freeman has encouraged defaulters to participate in the amnesty, emphasising the one-time nature of the programme. Photo: SSB/File

The Penalty Amnesty programme will end on December 31, 2026.

According to SSB, in a press release today, June 9, 2026, employers may participate by paying outstanding principal balances in full or, where approved, through structured payment arrangements.

The programme will also be open to voluntary contributors and self-employed persons.

'Fairness'

This initiative forms part of the Board’s broader effort to make compliance more achievable, while ensuring that workers remain protected and eligible for benefits. By encouraging defaulters to address historic arrears, the programme supports the sustainability of the Territory’s social protection system and promotes fairness for compliant employers, employees and the wider community, SBB stated.

Speaking on the initiative, Managing Director of the Social Security Board, Ms Lorie A. Freeman said: “This programme provides an opportunity for employers to regularise their accounts within a structured and supportive framework. Our goal is to ensure that employees have uninterrupted access to benefits and healthcare, while making compliance more accessible for defaulters.”

'This programme will not be repeated'- Lorie A. Freeman

Freeman also encouraged defaulters to participate in the amnesty, emphasising the one-time nature of the programme. She noted: “It is important to be clear that this programme will not be repeated. Stricter compliance and enforcement measures will take effect from January 2027.”

Following the exipration of the amnesty, penalty relief under the initiative will no longer be available, and defaulters who do not participate or fail to meet programme conditions will face full statutory enforcement, SSB emphasised.

Employers, self-employed persons and voluntary contributors with outstanding contributions are encouraged to act early and seek guidance on their eligibility and participation options. For more information about the Penalty Amnesty Programme, interested parties may contact the Social Security Board at 852 7857.