How to Register with PhilHealth as an Informal Economy Member
Step-by-step guide to register with PhilHealth as an informal economy member. Learn requirements, premium payments, and dependent coverage for freelancers.
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) provides accessible health insurance for Filipinos in the informal economy. If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or a foreign citizen with valid working permit, you can register as an Informal Economy Member.
Who Qualifies as Informal Economy Member?
Informal Economy Members include:
- Freelancers and independent contractors
- Self-employed professionals
- Small business owners
- Foreign citizens with valid working permits or ACR
- Migrant workers (documented or undocumented)
- Street vendors and informal workers
Registration Process
Step 1: Visit PhilHealth Office
Go to any of the following:
- Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO)
- PhilHealth Express outlet
- Or register online at eregister.philhealth.gov.ph
Step 2: Complete the PMRF
Fill out two copies of the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF):
- Available at PhilHealth offices
- Download from philhealth.gov.ph
- Include all declared dependents
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Hand in the completed forms with:
- One valid government ID
- One 1x1 photo
Step 4: Receive Your Credentials
After processing, you’ll receive:
- Member Data Record (MDR)
- PhilHealth ID Card
- 12-digit PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN)
Step 5: Pay Your Premium
Use your PIN to pay at any accredited collecting partner.
Eligible Dependents
As an Informal Economy Member, you can declare dependents without additional premiums:
| Dependent Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Legal Spouse | Not an active PhilHealth member |
| Children under 21 | Unmarried and unemployed |
| Children over 21 | With congenital/acquired disabilities |
| Foster Children | As defined by RA 10165 |
| Parents 60+ | Not enrolled in PhilHealth, below income threshold |
| Parents with disability | Regardless of age |
Note: Dependents share up to 45 days of hospital confinement coverage per year.
Premium Contribution (2025)
| Income Bracket | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| ₱10,000 and below | ₱500 |
| Above ₱100,000 | ₱5,000 |
| Between ₱10,000-₱100,000 | 5% of declared income |
Payment Options:
- Monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually
- Pay at banks, payment centers, or online
Amending Your Member Data
To update information or add dependents:
- Download PMRF from philhealth.gov.ph
- Check “FOR UPDATING” box on upper right corner
- Fill out updated details
- Submit to nearest PhilHealth office
- Receive updated Member Data Record
For OFWs: Email scanned PMRF with valid ID to actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph with subject: “PHIC MEM INCOME UPDATE [Name] [Province/Region]“
Continuing Your Coverage
Transitioning to Formal Employment
Provide your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) to your employer for premium remittance.
For Migrant Workers
Indicate your existing PIN during registration and payment.
For Retirees
Register under the Lifetime Member Program if you’ve completed at least 120 months of contributions.
Payment Channels
PhilHealth accepts payments through:
| Channel | Examples |
|---|---|
| Banks | BDO, BPI, Metrobank, LandBank |
| Payment Centers | Bayad Center, SM, 7-Eleven |
| Online | GCash, Maya, online banking |
| PhilHealth Portal | member.philhealth.gov.ph |
See the full list at philhealth.gov.ph/partners/collecting/
Benefits of PhilHealth Membership
As a member, you gain access to:
- Inpatient and outpatient care
- Maternity benefits
- Dialysis and cancer treatment packages
- Konsulta primary care benefits
- Preventive healthcare services
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register if I’m unemployed? Yes, you can register as an Informal Economy Member regardless of employment status.
How long before I can use my benefits? Benefits are available immediately upon registration and payment.
Can my dependents avail benefits separately? Yes, once they’re listed in your MDR, they can use benefits at any PhilHealth-accredited facility.
What if I become employed? Simply provide your PIN to your employer. Your membership continues seamlessly.
For assistance, contact PhilHealth at (02) 866-225-88 or email actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph.