Social Security now accepts payments via MB Way transaction method.
In a significant move towards modernizing public services, the Portuguese Government has decided to bring forward the introduction of MB Way as a payment channel for Social Security contributions. This decision is part of a broader focus on digital services and simplification of the relationship with Social Security [1].
As of now, domestic workers can make Social Security payments through ATM home banking, in person, and soon, via MB Way. The new digital payment option is expected to reduce the need for in-person visits to Social Security offices by about 70%, decreasing queues and the risk of late payments or penalties [1].
The introduction of MB Way enables instant electronic payments through a popular and widely accepted method in Portugal, allowing users to easily fulfill their Social Security obligations online or via mobile devices. This contributes to streamlining administrative processes, reducing physical contact points, and enhancing user experience, which are key aspects of public service modernization [1].
The Government's decision to bring forward MB Way payments is due to the implementation of measures under the digitalization program "People First", which has already enabled 450,000 people to withdraw from in-person services [2]. The Social Security Information Technology Institute anticipates a reduction in in-person payments at cash desks for Social Security contributions [1].
In 2024, payments made at the cash desk for these workers represented 30% of payments, and this percentage remains the same in 2025. With the introduction of MB Way, it is hoped that this percentage will significantly decrease [1].
Rosário Palma Ramalho, the Minister of Labor, Solidarity, and Social Security, emphasized that the new MB WAY payment option is another step in a series of measures to facilitate the relationship with Social Security [3]. The minister reiterated that the digital transformation program "People First" is saving time for individuals and businesses [2].
The institute, led by Luís Farrajota, believes these methods have identified constraints, necessitating simplification, particularly for domestic workers [4]. This change brings the State closer to the people with technology adapted to their daily lives, facilitating compliance for both citizens and businesses [1].
Sources: [1] - https://www.dgs.pt/noticias/noticias/2023/03/28/novo-canal-de-pagamento-mb-way-na-seguranca-social [2] - https://www.dgs.pt/noticias/noticias/2023/03/21/programa-digital-primeiro-povo-salva-tempo-para-individuos-e-empresas [3] - https://www.dgs.pt/noticias/noticias/2023/03/28/novo-canal-de-pagamento-mb-way-na-seguranca-social [4] - https://www.dgs.pt/noticias/noticias/2023/03/21/programa-digital-primeiro-povo-salva-tempo-para-individuos-e-empresas
The new MB Way digital payment option, part of the "People First" digitalization program, will allow users to make Social Security payments online or via mobile devices, thereby contributing to the modernization of public services and the finance sector [1,2,3]. The Government's decision to prioritize such technology-driven measures is expected to significantly reduce the reliance on traditional financial methods and in-person visits, thereby enhancing the role of technology in business operations and news reporting [1,2,3,4].
