The launch ceremony for the third generation of social security cards in Guangdong was held on October 30 in Zhongshan. Eight citizen representatives received the first batch of third generation social security cards at the ceremony. [Photo by Miao Xiaojian]

The new social security card features such functions as identity certificate, information record, self-service inquiry, medical treatment settlement, drug purchase, payment, allowance collection, cash deposit, cash withdrawal, transfer for consumption, and others, said a staff member of the Zhongshan Human Resources and Social Security Bureau. In addition, cardholders can enjoy 102 social public services, such as social security payment, information query, remote settlement of medical treatment, labor capacity appraisal, employment and unemployment registration, etc.

It is reported that there are 8 participating banks in Zhongshan that already accept the third generation social security card, including Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Bank of Communications, Postal Savings Bank of China, China Guangfa Bank and Zhongshan Rural Commercial Bank. Starting from October 30, employees or other insured people in Zhongshan, no matter whether they have held a previous version of social security card or not, can apply for a replacement or a new social security card at the branches of these 8 banks. A cost exemption will be given to first time applicants.

In addition, applicants will soon be able to apply for a new social security card online through the WeChat account or official website of the the Zhongshan Human Resources and Social Security Bureau.