SPF clarifies on allowance for families of missing persons

MUSCAT: The Social Protection Fund (SPF) clarified on it the procedures it takes to ascertain the disappearance of an insured person or pensioner, affirming the support disbursed for the disappeared persons’ families continues in all circumstances.

The SPF said that Article (63) of the Social Protection Law stipulates the disbursement of a monthly allowance to the beneficiaries of a missing person, equivalent to the pension they would have received had they passed away, starting from the date the disappearance is confirmed.

The SPF explained that the procedures for ascertaining disappearance begin with a report to a police station and filing an official report detailing the incident and its circumstances. This is followed by the issuance of an official certificate, which serves as the legal basis for submitting an application for assistance to the SPF. The SPF then reviews the application and disburses the allowance according to the regulations stipulated by the law.

The SPF also noted that employers bear the responsibility of reporting disappearances upon becoming aware of them as part of the integration of institutional roles.

Regarding the continuity of support, the SPF clarified that after four years from the date of disappearance, or upon actual or legal confirmation of death, the allowance is converted into a permanent pension paid to eligible beneficiaries according to legal shares.

The SPF emphasized that the allowance is suspended or the pension is canceled if the missing person is found to be alive. Furthermore, if their disappearance is proven to have been intentional, they will be obligated to repay any disbursed amounts, in accordance with the legal procedures.

The Social Protection Fund stressed that these measures aim to guarantee the rights of families and maintain their stability in exceptional circumstances.