Thailand’s Social Security Office Scraps 2026 Calendars, Saves 50 Million Baht by Going Digital

Cancellation of the 2026 Print Calendar

Bangkok, June 12, 2024 — Thailand’s Social Security Office (SSO) has officially canceled its annual print calendar for 2026, cutting costs by an estimated 50 million baht. Acting Secretary-General Darunee Pannachet announced the decision in a press briefing today, saying the move will streamline operations and strengthen digital services for millions of members.

“After reviewing delays in our e-bidding appeals and substantial rises in printing costs, we concluded that a digital-first approach best serves our contributors,” Darunee said. “This shift not only saves taxpayer money but also allows us to reinvest in online tools that provide real-time information.”

Reason for the Digital Shift

Officials cited two primary factors: an ongoing appeals process delaying this year’s calendar tender, and inflation-driven increases in paper and distribution expenses. An administrative tribunal is currently examining challenges to the print contract, making it impractical to finalize production on schedule.

Ministry of Labour spokesperson Somsak Rattanakorn welcomed the plan. “Moving services online aligns with the Thai government’s broader digital economy strategy. It reduces overhead and brings more timely updates to workers across the country.”

How Members Will Access Calendar Updates

With the print version discontinued, SSO members can now obtain all dates and policy reminders through:

• The SSO website (www.sso.go.th) with a dedicated 2026 calendar page

• The SSO Connect mobile app (iOS and Android), featuring push notifications

• The SSO Line Official Account for instant message alerts

All platforms will display the same information, updated automatically to reflect holidays, benefit deadlines and rate changes.

Background and Environmental Impact

Since 2005, the SSO printed more than one million calendars each year for employers, contributors and regional offices. These runs consumed over 20 tonnes of paper annually—equivalent to roughly 200 mature trees. By going digital, the office expects to cut its carbon footprint and support Thailand’s environmental commitments under the 20-year national strategy.

The change affects more than 16 million insured persons and over 500,000 registered employers.

How to Subscribe to Digital Updates

To ensure you receive all calendar notifications:

Visit the SSO website and click the “Subscribe” button on the calendar page.

Download or update the SSO Connect app and enable push alerts in settings.

Follow the SSO Line Official Account and turn on message notifications.

For assistance, contact the SSO call center at 1506 (press 0) or email info@sso.go.th.