What Is a SOCSO Number
SOCSO number is an identification number that is uniquely allotted to employees through employers that are registered with the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO), also known as PERKESO in Malaysia. SOCSO is a government agency under the Ministry of Human Resources established in 1971 that manages Malaysia’s social security schemes for employees in the private sector.
As per the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969, all private companies in Malaysia must make monthly contributions and register their employees for SOCSO. Based on the wages of the employee, the contribution would be shared between the employee and the employer.
Why Is SOCSO Important
Being registered with SOCSO offers various benefits including financial support, medical treatment, and job assistance.
- Medical coverage for employees from government hospitals, who got injured at work.
- When the employee can’t work due to disability, compensation is provided.
- Funeral expenses for family’s support in case of work-related death.
- For employees who are unable to work permanently due to illness or disability, invalidity scheme is provided.
Who Is Eligible for SOCSO in Malaysia
Employees working for a private company in Malaysia under the age of 60 are eligible for SOCSO.
- Malaysian Employees:
All Malaysian citizens working in private sectors regardless of their salary and employment type (full-time, part-time, and contract) are eligible to contribute and pitch in for SOCSO.
- Permanent Residents (PR):
Permanent residents working in Malaysia are eligible for SOCSO and are required to be covered under it (if applicable).
- Foreign Workers:
Foreign Workers, though are not covered under the full SOCSO scheme, are eligible for Employment Injury Scheme.
- Self-employed individuals:
Self-employed professionals have the choice to opt for SOCSO through the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SPS).
How to Check SOCSO Number in Malaysia (Step-by-Step Guide)
SOCSO number can be checked by using one of the following easy ways.
1. Through PERKESO (SOCSO) website
Visit the official PERKESO website, register or log in to your account. In the ‘profile’ or ‘contribution’ section, your SOCSO number will be displayed.
2. By ASSIST Portal (for employers)
Open the PERKESO ASSIST portal, login using employer credentials, search using employee details and view the SOCSO number.
3. Using IC number (NRIC)
Since IC number is linked to SOCSO, login to PERKESO portal using IC number and get your SOCSO details displayed.
4. From payslip
In the latest payslip, find out if SOCSO number is mentioned in the SOCSO / PERKESO contributions section.
5. Contacting the employer or HR
Contact the employer or HR and request for SOSCO number from the company records.
6. Directly contacting PERKESO
Visit the nearest PERKESO office or call customer service to get the SOCSO number. Pro Tip: Keep your IC number handy and use only official websites for entering your personal information. 
Bottom Line
For organisations and SMEs to effectively manage SOCSO, EPF, EIS, and PCB contributions, it is very crucial to comply as per the statutory requirements. It can be overwhelming and prone to errors when this is done manually, especially when penalties for late or incorrect payments are not exemptible. To effectively handle this, reliable payroll software would be of great benefit. Info-Tech will take care of your payroll statutory compliance so you can focus more on growing your business, rather than spending much time on these. Contact us today to stay compliant!
SOCSO Number FAQs
Is your IC number your SOCSO number?
No, IC number is different from SOSCO number, but they are closely related to one another. While IC number is a national identification number issued by the Malaysian government for your identity, SOCSO number is assigned by PERKESO (SOCSO) for tracking your social security contributions and benefits.
What is a SOCSO security number?
A SOCSO security number is the unique identification number assigned by employers registered with Malaysia’s Social Security Organisation (SOCSO / PERKESO) to its employees.
Is PERKESO and SOCSO number the same?
Yes, PERKESO and SOCSO number are the same. PERKESO is the Malay name for Malaysia’s Social Security Organisation, while SOCSO is its English name.
Are SOCSO and EPF the same?
No, though SOCSO and EPF are statutory contributions in Malaysia, they serve different purposes. SOCSO is for social protection of the employee, while EPF is for retirement savings.