Use Social Security’s video answering service… follow these steps

You no longer need to queue for long hours to be seen at Social Security and have your doubts answered on various topics. The video assistance service can be booked at the most convenient time and without leaving home.

More Social Security without leaving home

A Portuguese Social Security has a video assistance servicewhich allows users to deal with various matters quickly, conveniently and without the need to go to a physical counter. It is especially useful for those who have difficulty moving around or prefer to resolve bureaucratic issues without leaving home.

It is a digital solution that allows citizens to be assisted by a Social Security technician in real time, through a video call. This service was created to facilitate users' access to information and resolution of issues related to their contributions, benefits and social rights.

By opting for this service, the user can interact with the technician in the same way as they would in person, but with the advantage of being able to perform the service from anywhere with internet access.

This alternative is safe, effective and allows for more efficient time managementboth for users and for Social Security itself.

Image from the Social Security website

What topics can be discussed?

The video assistance service covers a wide variety of topics related to Social Security. Among the most common issues that can be addressed are:

  • Family benefits: Support such as family allowance, parental allowance or supplements for children and young people.
  • Unemployment benefits: Information about unemployment benefits, deadlines and conditions.
  • Pensions: Issues related to retirement, disability or survivor pensions.
  • Contributions and discounts: Clarifications on contribution obligations, debt settlement and applicable discounts.
  • Illness support: Sickness benefits, family assistance and medical leave.
  • Other services: General information about social programs, registering self-employed workers or updating data.

How to book?

The process for scheduling a video consultation session is simple and intuitive. Appointments can be made through the portal follow or via SigaApp, available for Android, iOS e HarmonyOS.

You can also schedule an appointment via the Appointment Line 210 548 888 or 300 088 888.

When booking a video service, you will receive a message in your email from the sender “SIGA” with access instructions:

  • Link to access;
  • Validation code to enter;
  • Link to cancel if you cannot attend.

To access the video service in the best conditions, you must:

  • Use a computer or laptop, with a front camera, speaker and microphone;
  • Enter the validation code and wait for the service to begin;
  • Activate the camera and microphone when opening the application “Teams” and click on “Join now”;
  • Use the browser whenever possible “Google Chrome”;
  • Choose a location with privacy, noise-free and good internet signal.

If you want to use your cell phone, you must have the “Teams” application installed and follow the access instructions sent to your email.

And don't forget this important information:

  • Videoconferencing will only be available on the same day, 30 minutes before the appointment time;
  • The video conference will not be recorded, for data protection reasons;
  • If you are using your cell phone, the video call is interrupted if you receive or answer another call;
  • Make sure, if possible, that you answer the call using a Wi-Fi connection and not mobile data, as this may incur costs that we are not aware of.

Advantages of this system

The Social Security video assistance service is an important step in the modernization of public administration. Its main advantages include:

  • Accessibility: It allows you to resolve issues without traveling, saving time and costs.
  • Efficiency: Reduces waiting lines and improves service management.
  • Flexibility: Users can choose the most convenient time for service.
  • Sustainability: Reduces the need for paper and travel, contributing to more environmentally friendly practices.

With a considerable range of issues that can be addressed and a simple scheduling process, this service is ideal for those looking to resolve issues quickly and efficiently, without giving up direct interaction with a qualified technician.

Source: pplware.sapo.pt