Turkey SGK to intensify collection of unpaid premium debts

The Social Security Institution (SGK) in Turkey is expected to intensify its collection and follow-up processes for unpaid premium debts during the final three months of the year. This move aligns with the new Medium-Term Program, which aims to activate more effective debt recovery mechanisms.

To facilitate payments, the government has introduced restructuring options for tradespeople and SMEs. The annual deferral interest rate has been reduced from 39% to 29%, and debts can be paid in installments for up to 72 months. This coverage includes insurance premiums, unemployment insurance, and administrative fines incurred up to June 2026. The deadline for applications and the first installment payment is August 31, 2026.

New collateral rules have also been implemented to ease the burden on taxpayers. No collateral is required for debts up to 10 million TL. For amounts exceeding this threshold, collateral is only required for half of the excess amount. Additionally, assets already under seizure may be accepted as collateral, and certain restrictions on vehicles may be lifted for those who maintain regular installment payments.