The differences between the INSS and the TGSS
The National Institute of Social Security and the General Treasury of Social Security are two fundamental bodies, whose attributions are clearly determined, however, we can sometimes confuse the work of the INSS and the work of the TGSS. Below, we will take a closer look at the work of these two bodies and their differences.
What is the National Social Security Institute, the INSS?
The National Social Security Institute (INSS) is a Spanish public entity responsible for the management and administration of the economic benefits of the Social Security System, excluding those managed by the National Employment Institute (INEM) and those corresponding to seafarers. Founded in 1978, the INSS operates under the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, and its main mission is to ensure the social protection of citizens.
The INSS administers benefits such as retirement pensions, permanent disability, widowhood, orphanhood, maternity and paternity benefits, among others. Through its network of offices and online services, it offers attention and services to workers, pensioners and beneficiaries, guaranteeing access to the rights and benefits established by current legislation.
In addition, the INSS is responsible for the registration of companies, affiliation, registration and deregistration of workers in the Social Security system. It also manages the recognition of the right to health care and collaborates with other institutions to ensure the effectiveness of the social protection system in Spain.
The powers and work of the Social Security General Treasury
The General Social Security Treasury (TGSS) is a public body responsible for the management and collection of the economic resources of the Social Security System in Spain. Its main mission is to guarantee the financial sustainability of the system, ensuring that benefits can be paid on time to beneficiaries. The TGSS reports to the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration.
Among its main functions, the TGSS is responsible for the registration of companies and the affiliation, registration and deregistration of workers in the social security system. It also manages the collection of contributions and other financial resources necessary for the operation of the system. This includes the administration of social security accounts and the control of taxpayers’ compliance with their obligations.
The TGSS is also responsible for distributing resources among the different managing entities and common services of the social security system. This distribution is essential to ensure that economic benefits and health services can be adequately financed and that the integrity of the social protection system is maintained.
In addition, the TGSS offers assistance and advice to companies and workers to facilitate compliance with their social security obligations. It provides information and support both in person at its offices and through online platforms, contributing to the efficient and accessible management of the system’s resources.
Basic differences between the INSS and the TGSS
The National Social Security Institute (INSS) and the General Social Security Treasury (TGSS) are two different bodies, with complementary functions within the Social Security system in Spain, as we have analysed above. The INSS is responsible for the management and administration of financial benefits, such as retirement, disability, widowhood and maternity pensions. Its main objective is to ensure that citizens receive the benefits to which they are entitled.
On the other hand, the TGSS focuses on the management and collection of the system’s economic resources. This includes the registration of companies, the affiliation of workers and the collection of contributions. In addition, the TGSS distributes the resources among the different managing entities, in order to guarantee the financial sustainability of the system and ensure the timely payment of benefits.
Face-to-face and online Social Security procedures
It is possible to do business with both the National Social Security Institute (INSS) and the General Social Security Treasury (TGSS) online. Both organisations offer numerous services through their respective electronic offices, allowing users to carry out procedures conveniently and efficiently without having to travel physically.
In the case of the INSS, it is possible to carry out procedures such as applying for benefits, consulting files and obtaining medical reports, among others. To access these services, a digital certificate, electronic ID card or the Cl@ve system is generally required.
The TGSS also facilitates numerous online procedures, including registering companies, registering workers, consulting contributions and obtaining employment history reports. As with the INSS, these procedures require appropriate electronic identification. However, some specific procedures may require physical presence. Please note that for face-to-face procedures it is compulsory to request an appointment in advance.
