Best Social Security Lawyers in Serdivan

About Social Security Law in Serdivan, Turkey

Social Security Law in Serdivan, as in the rest of Turkey, is primarily regulated by national legislation and enforced locally by social security institutions. The focus is on providing protection and benefits in cases of retirement, disability, work accidents, occupational diseases, death, and health conditions. Serdivan, being part of Sakarya province, follows the same rules as stipulated by Turkish law, but local Social Security Centers (SGK) provide services such as registration, premium collection, benefit processing, and resolving disputes for residents within the district.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many Social Security procedures can be handled individually, there are situations where legal expertise becomes essential. Individuals might need a lawyer in cases such as denied social security benefits, issues related to the calculation of pension or disability income, disputes over work injury or occupational disease compensation, eligibility clarifications, appeals against administrative decisions, or in dealing with employer-related matters such as unpaid premiums. A lawyer can ensure your rights are protected, help in gathering necessary documentation, and represent you before institutions or courts if disputes escalate.

Local Laws Overview

Social Security in Serdivan functions under the framework of Turkish national legislation, mainly the Social Insurance and General Health Insurance Law (No. 5510). Key local aspects include registration of employees by local businesses, periodic premium payments, and the provision of health and retirement benefits. The local Social Security Center (SGK) in Serdivan acts as the primary point of contact for all applications and procedures. Notably, both employers and employees have legal obligations to comply with these regulations. Enforcement and compliance checks are conducted at the local level, and any disputes or appeals usually start with the local SGK office before progressing to higher authorities or administrative courts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What social security benefits am I entitled to as an employee in Serdivan?

As an employee, you are entitled to health insurance, retirement pension, disability pension, benefits for work accidents and occupational diseases, and survivors' pensions for your family in the event of your death.

How do I register for social security in Serdivan?

Generally, your employer is responsible for registering you with the Serdivan branch of the Social Security Institution (SGK) when you start work. Self-employed individuals must register themselves directly at the SGK office.

What should I do if my social security benefits are denied?

If a benefit is denied, you should request a written explanation from the SGK office, consult an expert or a lawyer if needed, and consider filing an official objection or pursuing the matter in administrative courts if the decision is unjust.

How can I check my social security premium payments?

You can check your premium payment history online through the e-Government (e-Devlet) portal or by contacting your local SGK office in Serdivan.

Can I combine work periods from abroad with my Turkish social security record?

Yes, under certain bilateral agreements between Turkey and other countries, foreign work periods can be combined with Turkish social security records to qualify for retirement or other benefits.

What are my options if my employer has not paid my social security premiums?

If your employer has failed to pay premiums, you can file a complaint at the Serdivan SGK office. Legal action against the employer is also possible and may require assistance from a lawyer.

Can self-employed people benefit from social security in Serdivan?

Yes, self-employed individuals are required to enroll in the social security system and are eligible for similar benefits, provided they regularly pay their premiums.

What is the retirement age in Turkey and Serdivan?

The retirement age varies depending on when you started working and your contribution history. Generally, it ranges from 52 to 60 for women and 55 to 62 for men, but exceptions and transitional rules may apply.

How do survivors apply for death benefits and pensions?

Survivors (spouses, children, and dependent parents) need to submit an application with relevant documentation at the local SGK office in Serdivan after the insured person's death to claim survivors' pensions and death benefits.

Where can I file an appeal if I disagree with an SGK decision?

Appeals can be submitted directly to the Serdivan SGK office for review. If unsatisfactory, further appeals can be directed to the regional administrative courts or specialized social security courts with the help of a lawyer.

Additional Resources

• Serdivan Social Security Center (SGK): The main institution for applications, information, and disputes regarding social security.
• Sakarya Bar Association: Provides access to licensed lawyers specializing in social security law.
• e-Government Portal (e-Devlet): A platform offering digital access to social security records and applications.
• Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Services: Source of national policies, legal tolls, and guidance regarding social security rights and obligations.
• Civil Society Organizations: Local NGOs and workers' unions sometimes provide free or affordable legal support on social security matters.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal advice regarding social security in Serdivan, start by gathering all relevant documents, such as your SGK registration, correspondence, and details about your employment and premiums. Visit the Serdivan SGK office to seek initial clarification. If your issue is unresolved, consult with a local lawyer who specializes in social security law; the Sakarya Bar Association can help you find one. Try to act quickly, as certain appeals must be submitted within strict timeframes. Always ensure that you retain all documentation and written responses throughout the process for reference in case of appeals or legal proceedings.