Surprising changes: Social Security stops sending letters to thousands starting in September

The new regulation governing electronic notifications from Social Security is Order ISM/541/2026, published in the BOE. From September 1, it requires certain groups to receive communications related to temporary and permanent disability digitally.

If you have doubts, this change mainly targets workers on leave, people with permanent disability, and those who have applied for such benefits. It also affects other groups linked to birth or pregnancy risk benefits.

Who is affected by the new electronic notifications?

Which groups must receive notifications electronically?

This measure expands the list of people required to use the Electronic Headquarters to receive official notices. The newly affected are:

• Applicants or beneficiaries of temporary disability benefits.
• Persons with notifications related to permanent disability.
• Interested parties in procedures concerning non-disabling permanent injuries.
• Those who have applied for or receive benefits for birth or child care, pregnancy risk, or breastfeeding.

Those already required to use this channel:

• Companies and entities without legal personality.
• Certain self-employed workers within the RED System.
• Registered professionals and persons authorized by the Administration.

Which groups are not affected?

It is important to clarify that not everyone is obliged to this change. It does not include:

• Pensioners who only receive retirement, widowhood, or orphanhood pensions.
• Beneficiaries of Minimum Vital Income or family benefits.

Which notifications are excluded from the electronic system?

When will notifications continue to be sent by mail?

There are situations in which Social Security will maintain notifications in paper format:

• If it does not have updated electronic data, it will send a certified letter requesting them.
• When the notification contains elements impossible to digitize, such as payment methods.
• When regulations require in-person delivery at home.
• Persons with difficulties accessing the internet can request face-to-face assistance at CAISS centers.

What should be known about assistance to access notifications?

Social Security provides direct assistance for those unable to use electronic means, preventing them from being left without information. This is a key resource given the digital obligation.

How do electronic notifications work and what happens if they are not opened?

How are digital notifications received?

Communications are published on the Electronic Headquarters and a notice is sent to the email or device. To access them, identification is required with:

• Digital certificate.
• Electronic ID card.
• Cl@ve system.

What happens if the notification is not accessed within 10 days?

If the notification is not opened within 10 days, it is considered rejected and the procedure continues. This does not annul the resolution but activates deadlines to submit appeals or allegations.

This deadline is only suspended if the inability to access corresponds to a technical incident by Social Security exceeding 12 hours.

Requirements and steps to adapt to electronic notifications

What are the requirements to receive electronic notifications?

• Have updated electronic contact data with Social Security.
• Digital certificate, electronic ID, or Cl@ve system for identification.
• Regular access to the Electronic Headquarters to check notifications.

How to make the change and avoid common mistakes?

1. Verify that electronic data (email, phone) is updated with Social Security.
2. Ensure you have an installed and valid digital certificate or are registered in Cl@ve.
3. Check the Electronic Headquarters periodically to avoid missing important notifications.
4. If you have difficulties, ask for face-to-face support at CAISS centers.
5. Do not ignore received notices; failing to respond can complicate procedures.

What documents are necessary to manage this process?

• Personal identification documents (ID card, NIE).
• Digital certificate or data to access Cl@ve.
• Updated electronic contact (email, phone).

Common mistakes and advice to avoid them

• Forgetting to check the Electronic Headquarters and losing notifications.
• Not keeping electronic contacts updated.
• Not having valid digital identification tools.
• Ignoring notices by email or SMS.
• Not requesting face-to-face help when access difficulties arise.

Remember that the deadline to open the notification is 10 days and failing to do so may affect your rights. To avoid falling behind, check your digital setup and keep your contact with Social Security up to date.

With this regulation, Social Security opts for more agile management adapted to the digital practices of beneficiaries, especially workers on leave and people with disabilities. However, not everyone is obligated and alternative paths exist to guarantee access to information.