How to Apply for and Renew Your Solo Parent ID

When you're raising a child on your own, you’re the default driver, homework helper, bill payer, and everything in between. You definitely deserve extra support and getting your Solo Parent ID is the first step. This ID helps you get benefits, such as parental leave, discounts, and cash subsidies, that can ease the load.

Don't stress about the paperwork! This guide shows you exactly how to apply for and renew your Solo Parent ID, so you can access the support you're entitled to. (Requirements and procedures for solo parent ID application and renewal are subject to change. Always check your city hall or local government unit for the latest updates.)

What’s a Solo Parent ID

The Solo Parent ID is an official card from your local government unit (LGU) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that proves your status as a solo parent. This ID is your key to benefits under the "Solo Parents' Welfare Act" (Republic Act 8972) and the "Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act" (Republic Act No. 11861).

Having this ID lets you access two types of benefits. All ID holders get helpful non-cash perks, like seven (7) working days of paid parental leave and priority for scholarships. There are also financial benefits, like a ₱1,000 monthly subsidy and a 10% discount on essentials if your income is below a certain level. You can explore the full list in this guide to solo parent benefits.

This support is critical. Research from the Department of Health (DOH) found that there are 15 million solo parents in the Philippines, 95% of whom are women. The discounts and subsidies can free up funds, helping you manage your family's finances.

Who Qualifies for a Solo Parent ID?

The law now recognizes more situations where someone ends up raising a child (22 years old or younger) alone. You're eligible to apply for a Solo Parent ID for the following reasons:

• Your spouse has passed away.
• Your spouse is detained or serving a prison sentence for at least three months.
• Your spouse is physically or mentally incapacitated (as certified by a public doctor).
• You’re legally separated or your marriage was annulled, and you have custody of the child.
• You’ve been de facto separated (no longer living together, even without court papers) or abandoned by your spouse for at least six (6) months.
• You’re an unmarried parent raising your child.
• You’re pregnant and solely responsible for your unborn child.
• You’re a legal guardian, foster parent, or anyone who has sole care of a child.
• You’re a close relative (grandparent, sibling, aunt, or uncle) who has taken over full parental care of a child for at least six months, if the child's parents have passed away, disappeared, or abandoned them.
• You’re the spouse or a family member of a low-skilled OFW who has been out of the country for at least 12 continuous months.
• You gave birth as a result of rape or other crimes against chastity.

How to Apply for a Solo Parent ID

Start your Solo Parent ID application by checking your LGU's website, or you can visit your C/MSWDO.

You'll file your application at your local City or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (C/MSWDO), sometimes called the Solo Parents Office (SPO).

Step 1: Get the application form.

Get the official Solo Parent ID application form through your LGU. Some cities, like Quezon City and Caloocan, let you download or apply for the form online. You can also get the form by visiting your local C/MSWDO.

Step 2: Gather all your requirements.

Prepare original and photocopies of all your documents for the social worker to verify. You'll need two sets of every document.

1. General requirements (for all applicants):

• Completed application form
• A Barangay Certificate of Residency
• Proof of income (like your latest income tax return, a Certificate of Indigency from your barangay, or a Certificate of No Income from the BIR)
• PSA birth certificate(s) of your child or children (aged 22 or below)
• One or two (check with your LGU) 1x1 or 2x2 ID pictures

2. Proof of your solo parent status (bring ONE of these):

• If you’re widowed: A PSA death certificate of your spouse.
• If your spouse is detained: A Certificate of Detention from the jail.
• If your spouse is incapacitated: A medical certificate from a public doctor.
• If you’re legally separated or annulled: A copy of your final court decree.
• If you’re 'de facto' separated or abandoned: An affidavit (validated by your barangay captain) declaring you've been separated or abandoned for at least six (6) months.
• If you’re an unmarried parent: Your child's PSA birth certificate.
• If you’re a guardian or foster parent: A copy of your guardianship or foster care documents.
• If you’re a parent due to rape: An affidavit declaring this.
• If you’re related to an OFW: Proof of the OFW's employment and that they belong to the low-skilled category.

Step 3: Submit and attend the assessment.

Once your documents are complete, submit them to the C/MSWDO. A social worker will review your application and may schedule a brief interview or assessment to verify your situation.

Step 4: Wait for processing.

The C/MSWDO will process your application. Under the law, they should process your application within 30 days.

Step 5: Claim your Solo Parent ID.

Once approved, you can claim your ID and your Solo Parent Booklet. You'll use this booklet to track your discounts and benefits.

How to Renew Your Solo Parent ID

Renewing your solo parent ID annually ensures you continue to receive benefits like educational support for your child.

Your Solo Parent ID is valid for one year, so you’ll need to renew it at the same C/MSWDO to continue receiving help. Renewal is simpler and faster than your first application.

1. Go to your C/MSWDO before your ID expires to get a renewal form or download it online if your LGU allows it.
2. Fill out the renewal application form.
3. Provide updated documents, such as your expired Solo Parent ID, a new Barangay Certificate of Residency, and a new proof of income (or Certificate of Indigency).
4. Undergo a quick assessment if necessary to verify that your status as a solo parent has not changed.

If your situation changes (if you get married or start living with a partner), you’ll need to report this change to the C/MSWDO so they can terminate your solo parent status.

Get the Support You Deserve

A 2024 study of 30 solo parents in Laguna found that they struggle with financial problems the most. This is why getting your Solo Parent ID is such an important step. It's your key to accessing the support you and your family deserve.

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