SMS from the Social Security Institution to unemployed citizens: Legal proceedings will be initiated if not paid

The Social Security Institution (SGK) is sending SMS messages to unemployed citizens to remind them of their General Health Insurance (GSS) premium debts. The messages warn that legal proceedings will be initiated if the debts are not paid. Pointing out that GSS debts accumulated during periods of unemployment have multiplied with interest, citizens have shown great reaction to the situation on social media.

9.4 MILLION PEOPLE SENT MESSAGES

Following the debt notifications sent by the SGK to approximately 9.4 million citizens, many people became aware of their debts through messages received on their mobile phones. In a second statement made alongside these notifications, the SGK announced that citizens could be exempt from GSS debts and benefit from health services free of charge by undergoing an income test.

'THIS IS AN UNEMPLOYMENT TAX'

According to a report by the BirGün newspaper, 26-year-old Murat Polat, who lives in Mersin, reacted to the 24 thousand 603 lira GSS debt issued to him. Polat, who has no income, described this debt as an "unemployment tax" and refused to pay it. Polat also stated that his debt was not erased as a result of an income test conducted due to a plot of land belonging to his family.

MANDATORY GSS PREMIUMS

GSS premiums, which became mandatory with a legal regulation made on January 1, 2012, must be paid by unemployed citizens. The GSS premium amount determined for 2024 was announced as 600 lira per month and 7 thousand 200 lira per year. Unemployed citizens can be exempted from premium payments by undergoing an income test.