Jordan has a social security system for which contributions must be made but this system of contributions only applies to Jordanian nationals. By paying into the system they are able to make claims for when they are unable to work due to illness, for pension payments after they retire or death benefits. Employers make contributions on behalf of full time employees and those who are self employed or working abroad can choose to make voluntary contributions to ensure that they will have access to benefits if required.

There is an insurance scheme that will pay out a benefit to those who have been injured at work or contracted a work related illness. These benefits can only be claimed by a person who has been working and who is between the ages of 16 and 60. They must also have been in possession of a medical certificate to say that they were previously fit to work before becoming injured or ill.

The other insurance scheme that applies to workers is that for pensions. Contributions are made to ensure an income once the worker has retired. The retirement age for workers in Jordan is 60. Claims can only be made if the correct amount of contributions has been made. The website of the social security department in Jordan has a pension calculator which can help you to work out if you qualify for a pension from the state and how much you would receive.

Both the worker and the employer pay 5.5% of the employee's monthly salary to the social security system. Voluntary contributions are made if the worker requests but these can be stopped by the worker at any time. There are a minimum number of contributions that must be made if the worker is going to be able to claim any benefits from the state.

Benefits can be paid directly into the claimant's bank account or sent by cheque to them at home. The social security department can help claimants to decide which method would be better for them. The website also has a handy FAQ section so you can find out all you need to know about social security in Jordan.

Expats who choose to work in Jordan need to ensure that they make contributions to a private pension scheme for when they retire, particularly if they intend to remain in the country. Expats are also advised to ensure that they have adequate medical insurance.